Extensively hydrolyzed formula milk is an alternative formula for babies who have cow's milk allergy. This milk can provide all the essential nutrients needed by the baby, without causing allergy symptoms that can interfere with it.
The protein in hydrolyzed formula has been broken down into smaller components. This method is done so that the baby's body can accept milk protein without seeing it as an allergen. That way, babies who have a cow's milk allergy can receive this protein well, without experiencing an allergic reaction.
Various Advantages of Extensive Hydrolyzed Formula
The following are some of the advantages of extensive hydrolyzed formula:
1. Safe for babies who are allergic to cow's milk
As previously stated, you can use extensive hydrolyzed formula milk as a milk substitute if your little one has an allergy to cow's milk.
Several studies have shown that extensive hydrolyzed formula can prevent and reduce symptoms in children who have cow's milk allergy, such as vomiting, stomach cramps, diarrhea, and respiratory disorders.
2. Able to prevent other allergic diseases
Still related to allergies, several studies have shown that extensive hydrolyzed formula can also prevent allergic diseases, such as allergic rhinitis, eczema, and asthma, even in children who do not receive breast milk. The results of this study are quite promising although they still need to be proven further.
3. Have complete nutrition
Extensively hydrolysed formula is still milk made from cow protein, but the protein in it is in a simpler form. Therefore, the nutrients contained in this formula are as complete as regular cow's milk formula, even more easily absorbed in the intestines.
So, by consuming extensive hydrolyzed formula, babies can still experience the various nutritional benefits of cow's milk for their growth and development, even if they suffer from cow's milk allergy.
Things to Consider in Choosing Formula Milk
If you plan to give formula milk to your little one, there are several things you should pay attention to, namely:
- Make sure formula milk is made specifically for babies.
- Choose a formula that is suitable for your little one's age.
- Check the composition of formula milk, whether the nutrients contained in it, such as protein, carbohydrates, good fats, minerals, and vitamins, are in accordance with the needs of your little one.
If necessary, you can consult directly with your doctor to determine the best choice of formula milk according to your little one's condition.
Those are a series of advantages of extensive hydrolyzed formula and things you should pay attention to before choosing formula milk. Keep in mind that breast milk is still the best source of nutrition. So, as long as the conditions allow, try to continue to give exclusive breastfeeding to the baby.
If you are worried that your little one has a cow's milk allergy, you can check the risk of suffering from allergies through allergy symptoms checker or you can also consult directly with a doctor. Doctors can do allergy tests and recommend formula milk that suits your little one's health condition.
