Hi,
Re: hydrolysate formula for longterm supplimentation with allergic mum

> How do the hydrolysate formulas compare nutritionally to the regular stuff
> that's out there?  If they have no drawbacks nutritionally, might it make sense
> to continue to use it for supplementation if the parents are willing?...{snip}

The National Asthma Campaign and Eczema Society in Britain strongly recommend
the use of hydrolysate formulas where breastfeeding is not possible, for babies
to allergic mothers. They do not recommend the use of soy formulas before the
age of 4 mo and when it is introduced the child should be closely observed for
any allergic reaction, such as skin rashes, vomiting etc. All dairy products,
including regular formula should be avoided for the first 12 months.

I also checked this out with my allergy specialist who gave a similar message
- hydrolysate formulas still contain potentially allergenic proteins, but they
are less likely to cause problems (like hypoallergenic make-up - some women,
including myself, are allergic to it since you can never have truely
"hypoallergenic" anything). There are some fully artificial formulas which can
be given if even that proves to be allergic. However, my instincts are that even
partial breastfeeding will help to reduce the allergic effect of the formula.

Apparently, there is evidence that babies on HA formulas do not gain weight
well and they may not be very good for full-term babies. But this baby should be
mainly receiving breastmilk with the formula as a supplement, so I suspect it
will be less of a problem provided the mother is doing everything she can to
maximise her milk supply. I feel for the mother - I am highly allergic myself,
and I would be devastated if I could not fully breastfeed my babies.
--
Anna (mummy to Emma, born 17th Jan 1995 and Alice, born 11th Sept 1996)
Web Page: http://www.ratbag.demon.co.uk/anna