Can Babies Be Allergic To Breast Milk?

Although rare, some babies may show sensitivity to proteins in breast milk. The most common problem is a reaction to certain proteins in the mother's diet, such as milk, which pass into the breast milk. This is not the same as an allergy to breast milk, but it can cause symptoms such as irritability, rashes, or digestive problems. Understanding the difference between an actual milk allergy and a sensitivity can help parents resolve any issues.

• Can babies be allergic to breast milk?
• Symptoms of breast milk allergy in Babies
• What’s the difference between a breast milk allergy and a food sensitivity?
• When do you need to consult a lactation specialist?
• Conclusion

Can babies be allergic to breast milk?

It is often misunderstood that infants are allergic to breast milk itself. It is extremely rare for infants to be allergic to breast milk components.

However, it is much more common to develop a sensitivity or allergic reaction to proteins ingested by the mother that are passed on to the infant through the breast milk. Below are 3 kinds of main reactions:

Protein sensitization:

The most common example of an infant reacting to milk proteins is the transmission of milk proteins through breast milk if the mother consumes dairy products.

According to studies, about 2-3% of breastfed infants may have an allergic reaction to milk proteins, resulting in symptoms such as eczema, vomiting, or blood in the stool. However, it is the protein that is allergic, not the breast milk itself.

IgE-Mediated Allergy:

Studies have shown that true allergic reactions are usually associated with immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated reactions. This reaction occurs when an infant's immune system reacts to foreign proteins. Breast milk naturally contains a variety of proteins, but these proteins are usually designed to help the infant's immune system develop. Therefore, a direct allergic reaction to breast milk proteins is extremely unlikely because these proteins are natural and well tolerated by infants.

Non-IgE reactions:

Non-IgE-mediated reactions may also occur, which may involve gastrointestinal problems such as colic or reflux. These reactions are usually related to the mother's diet rather than the breastmilk itself. If the baby is unwell, it may be helpful for the mother to change her diet temporarily to identify the cause.

Most allergic reactions in breastfed infants are related to external proteins in the mother's diet. In this case, the healthcare provider may recommend that the mother remove common allergens such as dairy, egg, or soy from her diet to see if symptoms improve. It's important to distinguish between a true milk allergy and an intolerance or sensitivity because treatments are different. In most cases, infants can still benefit from breast milk and dietary adjustments can resolve the problem without the need to switch to formula.

Although it is possible for infants to experience allergy-like symptoms while breastfeeding, it is usually not an allergy to breast milk itself. Addressing the mother's diet usually solves the problem, and breastfeeding can usually be continued with adjustments.

Symptoms of breast milk allergy in Babies

The following are some common symptoms that may indicate that an infant is reacting to certain components of breast milk, although this is usually due to sensitivity to proteins in the mother's diet rather than an allergy to breast milk itself:

Excessive irritability or crying

A baby who seems unusually irritable or cries more than usual may be showing signs of discomfort due to an allergy to breast milk. This can happen if a protein (such as milk protein) passes through the breast milk and disrupts the baby's digestive system. Parents often notice that their baby seems difficult to soothe, even when feeding, changing diapers, or holding.

Skin reactions (eczema or rashes)

Sensitive babies may develop skin problems such as eczema or hives. These rashes usually appear as red, dry, or scaly patches on the face, arms, or legs. The skin may itch, causing your baby to rub or scratch, which can make the rash worse.

Blood or mucus in the stool

If there is blood or mucus in your baby's stool, this may be a sign of an allergic reaction to proteins that enter the body through breast milk, such as milk. These symptoms usually indicate irritation of the baby's intestines and may be accompanied by diarrhea or abnormal bowel movements.

Frequent vomiting or spitting up

While spitting up is normal for babies, frequent or intense vomiting may indicate a sensitivity to certain components of a mom's diet. This reaction may be due to irritation of the baby's digestive system, resulting in difficulty in feeding.

Difficulty in breathing or wheezing

In rare cases, babies may experience respiratory symptoms such as wheezing or shortness of breath. These symptoms should be taken seriously and require immediate medical attention as they may indicate a more serious allergic reaction, although this is rare with breastfeeding.

Chronic diarrhea

Babies who are allergic or sensitive to milk proteins may develop chronic diarrhea, usually watery or with a strong odor. This can sometimes lead to dehydration or weight loss if your baby is not absorbing nutrients properly, so be sure to watch for any changes in your baby's stools.

Swelling of the face or lips

Swelling of the face, lips, or eyes is another serious sign that requires medical attention. This can signal a more serious allergic reaction and may occur in conjunction with other symptoms such as wheezing or vomiting.

Any of these symptoms could be a reaction to certain ingredients in the mother's diet rather than the breast milk itself. If any of these occur, it is important to consult a healthcare provider for appropriate evaluation and advice on managing your infant's diet.

What’s the difference between a breast milk allergy and a food sensitivity?

Here are the differences between breast milk allergies and infant food sensitivities:

True Breastmilk Allergy vs. Reaction to Food Proteins

True allergies to breast milk are extremely rare. What most people refer to as “breast milk allergy” is actually a reaction to proteins in the mother's diet (such as milk, eggs, or soy) that pass into the breast milk. In contrast, food sensitivity is when a baby's digestive system has problems processing certain substances, but it does not involve an immune response like an allergy.

Immune System Reaction

In allergies, the baby's immune system perceives harmless substances as a threat, which triggers an allergic reaction. This may include a rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing. Food sensitivity, on the other hand, does not involve the immune system. Instead, it causes your baby to be unable to digest certain proteins properly, resulting in symptoms such as flatulence, diarrhea, or irritability.

Severity of symptoms

Allergic reactions tend to be more severe and can affect multiple body systems at once, such as the skin, digestive system, and respiratory system. Symptoms can range from hives and swelling to more dangerous reactions such as difficulty breathing. Food allergies, while uncomfortable for babies, usually cause milder symptoms such as gastrointestinal upset, bloating, or a mild rash.

Long-term effects

Allergies can last longer, sometimes into childhood. They usually require ongoing treatment, including the elimination of certain foods from the mother's and child's diets. Food allergies usually resolve on their own as the baby's digestive system matures and is better able to handle certain foods.

Testing and Diagnosis

A true allergy can usually be confirmed by specific allergy tests, such as skin prick tests or blood tests that check for immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies. The diagnosis of food sensitivities is more challenging because there is no definitive test. It is usually determined by elimination, where the mother adjusts her diet and monitors her baby's symptoms.

Understanding the difference between these two issues is important in determining the right way to manage your baby's symptoms and continue breastfeeding.

When do you need to consult a lactation specialist?

When your baby shows signs of a possible allergy or sensitivity to breast milk, it may be helpful to consult a lactation specialist, especially if symptoms persist despite efforts to control them. Here are some of the situations where counseling may be necessary:

Persistent symptoms

It is important to consult a lactation specialist if your baby continues to have symptoms such as excessive irritability, rashes, or digestive problems (such as vomiting, diarrhea, or blood in the stool) after the mother has changed her diet. They can help assess whether the baby's symptoms are related to certain components of the breast milk and guide the next steps.

Difficulty in using the exclusion

If a mother is unsure of how to safely adjust her diet to address potential allergies or sensitivities, a lactation specialist can provide guidance on the exclusion diet. They can help identify common allergens, such as dairy or soy, and provide advice on how to track changes in baby's symptoms when removing or re-adding foods to the diet.

Unclear diagnosis

Sometimes it can be difficult to tell whether your baby's symptoms are caused by a food allergy, sensitivity, or something else. A lactation specialist can work with your pediatrician to help clarify the situation, provide breastfeeding-specific insights, and ensure that your baby continues to get the nutrients he or she needs.

Severe or worrisome symptoms

If your baby is exhibiting more serious symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, swelling, or continued weight loss, consult a lactation specialist with your healthcare provider. While these symptoms may signal a serious allergic reaction, a lactation specialist can help determine if it is safe to continue breastfeeding and how to adjust the feeding process if necessary.

In any of these situations, a lactation specialist can provide tailored support to help ensure that both mother and baby are on the best path to healthy breastfeeding.

Conclusion

In summary, while it is extremely rare for infants to be allergic to breast milk itself, many infants may be allergic to proteins in their mother's diet via breast milk.

Common culprits include milk, eggs, or soy. These allergies can cause symptoms such as irritability, rashes, or indigestion in babies, but can usually be controlled with dietary modifications. It's important to distinguish between true allergies and food sensitivities to ensure the right approach is taken. Consulting with a healthcare provider or lactation specialist can help clarify any concerns and provide the best course of action for mom and baby.