Problems associated with feeding

The baby develops intolerance to breast milk, clinically called lactose intolerance.

The mother is affected with some contagious disease that might pass on to the child through breast milk.

The mother does not have sufficient milk to feed the baby. This is the least of problems because there are many ways to boost milk secretion.

Lactose Intolerance:

This is a condition where the baby is unable to digest the lactose component of milk and the symptoms include diarrhea and nausea. The two types are Primary lactose intolerance and Secondary lactose intolerance. Tests recommended by your pediatrician have to be done to confirm intolerance.

In the case of Primary Intolerance, the symptoms appear for a short 2-3 week period and disappear once the lactobacillus (the bacteria that are responsible for the digestion of milk) is regenerated in the digestive system of the baby. This is very common until the baby turns a year old and during this time breast feeding has to be continued. However, all other lactose containing feed have to be discontinued until the baby is normal.

In the case of Secondary intolerance, the baby has a chronic intolerance to milk including breast milk and foods that are free of lactose and sucrose are recommended for the baby. This condition goes away by the time the baby is three years old.

Lactose intolerance in adulthood is extremely rare although it may appear on and off due to depletion of lactobacillus.

Foods that may cause lactose intolerance:

Introduction of new foods with milk or milk products; bakery products like cakes and pastries; excessive milk intake.

Foods that are recommended if the baby has lactose intolerance :

Lactose free sucrose free milk substitutes are available in the market. Soy milk, Arrowroot porridge helps bring diarrhea under control. Curds or lactobacillus powder can be given to boost lactose digestion.

Boost milk secretion:

There are certain foods that help boost milk secretion.

• Milk - yes, milk helps secrete more milk! Take 3 glasses a day during feeding.
  

• Garlic - yuk! But it is a real good milk booster. Boil 10 cloves in a glass of milk and drink it up.
  

• Green papaya salad or curry. Peel and immerse a tender green papaya in water for about 10 minutes. Chop it up and sauté in a little oil. You can eat it as a salad with other vegetables or make a curry with dhal. Have two papayas a week, not more.
  

• Mixed cereal porridge with milk.

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What does she want?

Lactose Intolerance

Contagious disease that might pass through breast milk.

Boost milk secretion

Feeding Positions

Bottle feeding and hygiene

First baby foods

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