Hello all--
        Anne asks "Do we have figures to prove we should be discussing dairy
allergies with every Mom whose baby has colic?"

        Many moms *think* that their baby is colicky, just because they are unaware
that most babies have a fussy time somewhere between 2 & 11 PM. I tell them
not to worry too much unless the baby is fussy from 2 til 11!!
        Actually, not to be facetious, the moms need to know what is a normal pattern
and what is not. Also, that most babies outgrow this fussy time by thirteen
weeks; also that we still aren't sure what makes colic--neuro, digestive,
other?? Also, other measures to sooth a fussy baby--massage, etc.
        Some babies do respond to a purge of dairy, and yes, it is complicated and
exhausting for a new mom in that stage already. But dairy can be highly
allergenic to humans, to the point where new information is suggesting cutting
it out of the third trimester along with other potential allergens (ILCA conf
8/97, can't remember the actual speaker and references, but could dredge it up
from my notes if needed).
        So, we need to make the suggestion to moms who are seeking relief, but to let
them know the norms and options (isn't is always about options?).

Kathy Rubin IBCLC RNC who had a colicky baby from 2-11PM every day from 3
weeks to 5.5 months!! and who purged dairy with no relief--in fact, this is
the only one of my three who actually drinks cow's milk now!! One never knows!