A look at the basics of what you need to know if you suspect your child has a Cow's Milk Allergy

2.  CMA is an allergy to the proteins in cows’
milk.
 Often confused with lactose intolerance
(the inability to break down lactose).
 Affects between 2 and 6% of babies.

3.  Diarrhoea/Constipation
 Eczema or rashes on the skin
 Colic or pain after taking a feed
 Reflux
 Disturbed sleep and restlessness

4.  A dietician or GP can diagnose cows’
milk allergy.
 When attending an appointment, take a
food diary with you, detailing what was
eaten, how much, and the child’s
reaction.

5.  Learn what to look for on food
packets, as milk protein comes under
many different names
› Beta-lactoglobulin
› Hydrolysed Whey Powder
› Whole milk
› Casein
› Demineralised whey
…to name just a few of its aliases!

6.  Do not give your child anything
containing cows’ milk until advised by
your healthcare professional (usually
after they reach age one)
 If breastfeeding, you may need to
modify your diet. Speak to your GP.
 If using infant formula, this may need to
be changed by a dietician or GP.

7.  Most children
outgrow CMA before
age 6, and very few
suffer into adulthood.
 It is easy to manage
once you have
familiarised yourself
with the ‘foods to
avoid’