Expert: ruth kraft - 12/23/2009

Question
Dear Dr.
 My 10-month old daugher has been allergic to cow and soy milk proteins so I've been breastfeeding her (gradually less each month as per request) until now. She has 3 daily solid meals (in which I make sure to vary nutrients by using oat, green leaves, etc.) and 1-2 fruity snacks between the meals. I make sure to add formula milk to the fruits and to some meals, as she wouldn't take it in a bottle. Her formula milk is so rarely found where I live.

I'm worried about her daily Calcium intake. When I nurse her, she sucks strongly for 5 minutes at least each session. I try to nurse her as much as I can during the day.
Can you please let me know what calcium-rich foods I can give her (as she can't have dairy or soy)?

Awaiting your kind response. Thank you.
Razan

Answer
Hello, if she has a cow protien AND a soy allergy, then she should not be getting ANY formula at all. and more breastmilk. there are no cow protiens in breastmilk unless you drink or eat dairy. SO cut out any dairy from your diet and give her more breastmilk. Most people don't eat alot of soy in general however, if you do, cut that out of your diet as well.

nursing for 5 mintues at first is normal and good :) she likely just has a strong suck.  The baby will get all the calcium she needs from  your breastmilk if you nurse her , however, you should take a calcium suppliment that wil increase your calcium and not depleat you.  ecause of her allergies, I strongly suggest you nurse her until 2 years old as much as possible. this will help get her all balanced out and then you don't have to worry about any of the mineral and vitamin issues.

I hope that helped!
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