Lactose intolerance treatment in infants

Lactose is the natural sugar in breast milk and standard infant formula. Low lactase activity can leave lactose undigested, leading to loose stools, wind, bloating or discomfort. Temporary lactose intolerance can follow an illness affecting the intestine, while some babies have an uncommon inherited problem. Cow's milk protein allergy is different and may cause symptoms such as rash, blood in stool or breathing problems. A baby’s feeding history, growth, stool pattern and hydration are therefore central to the assessment.

Do not dilute formula, stop breastfeeding, or switch feeds repeatedly without advice. A paediatric clinician may recommend a supervised trial of a lactose-reduced or lactose-free formula when appropriate, then review whether it can be stopped. Breastfeeding parents should not remove dairy from their own diet solely for suspected lactose intolerance unless a clinician advises it for another reason. Record feeds, wet nappies, stool changes and vomiting. Food Intolerance Testing may be discussed, but symptoms and growth still guide decisions. Nutrition Counselling can protect a baby’s energy and nutrient intake when feeds change.

Contact a clinician promptly for poor feeding, repeated vomiting, fewer wet nappies, lethargy, a dry mouth, blood in stool, fever or poor weight gain. Seek urgent care for breathing difficulty, facial swelling, collapse, severe dehydration or a baby who is difficult to wake. These signs can indicate infection, allergy or another condition rather than simple lactose intolerance.

Ask which symptoms support lactose intolerance, what feed change is suitable, how long to try it, and how progress will be checked. Clarify how to prepare feeds safely and when normal milk feeds should be reconsidered.