How do I tell the difference between reflux and an allergic reaction?

Feeding issues are very common in babies, especially during the first few months of life. Sometimes it can be tricky trying to work out what may be causing the ups and downs, as the symptoms for different issues are often very similar.

General Practitioner Dr. Stephanie Ooi explains:

"There are a lot of overlapping symptoms between reflux and allergies, which can be really hard to unpick. The physical signs for allergies are a little different. Eczema is something to look out for; it isn’t unusual for new borns to have eczema and in many cases it’s easily treated.
If your little one isn’t getting any better after treatment, this can be a sign of an allergic reaction.
They may also experience gut symptoms, have looser stools – or you may notice after feeding that they are more restless and uncomfortable, drawing their legs up to their tummy."
 

How & why do babies develop food allergies?

Kiddylicious Nutritionist Katie Angotti explains:

"Food allergies occur when your little one’s immune system overreacts to something in their food or milk, typically a protein. It’s not always clear why it happens. Sometimes allergies can be hereditary, but it’s not always that straightforward, just because a parent has an allergy, it doesn’t mean their baby will definitely have one too. It’s important to remember if your little one has an allergy, it’s nothing you have done wrong. Speak to a healthcare professional or GP for advice, and they will be able to offer you all the support you need."
 

How do I work out what my baby may be allergic to?

To help you work out what your little one may be allergic to, many GPs will recommend starting with an elimination diet. This is where particular foods are removed from your diet progressively to help identify what your little one is reacting to.

Kiddylicious Nutritionist Katie Angotti explains:

"If you are breast-feeding and your baby develops Cow’s Milk Protein Allergy (CMPA) then you will need to remove all dairy from your diet, as milk proteins are transferred to your little one during breast feeding. Remember it’s not just milk, it’s all dairy: butter, cheese, ice-cream and even chocolate, plus all processed foods that include milk or milk powders. Your GP will be able to guide you through this process or refer you to a specialist for extra support if needed."

Expert top tip

“Allergy UK is a fantastic resource for parents as they have loads of great content with suggestions on what you might want to try, look out for or share with your GP or healthcare professional,” recommends Kiddylicious Nutritionist, Katie Angotti.
 

Can I use a formula if my baby has CMPA?

General Practitioner Dr. Stephanie Ooi says:

"If your little one has CMPA you will probably be referred to a dietitian who can guide you on which formulas and alternatives to use. Most off the shelf formulas still have cow’s milk protein in them so you will need to have a special formula that is completely diary free, but still meets your baby’s nutritional requirements."
 

Can I substitute Soya into my diet if dairy has to be eliminated?

Kiddylicious Nutritionist Katie Angotti says:

"You can choose to use an alternative milk like products made from soya, oat, pea, or nuts but look for ones that contains Calcium, and if possible, Vitamin D and Iodine, all of which you need in your diet. If your baby has a severe allergic reaction and symptoms, you might be advised by a specialist to avoid soya, but this should only be done on the advice of a healthcare professional."
 

Should I be introducing food allergens into my baby’s diet before they are six months old?

General Practitioner Dr. Stephanie Ooi Katie says:

The general advice around introducing allergens is to offer various types – like nuts, egg, shellfish, or gluten – with other foods, from around 6 months of age.
 

Look after yourself

Kiddylicious Nutritionist Katie Angotti says:

"If you’re making dietary changes for yourself, you won’t necessarily be referred to a dietician for support – this is where your healthcare professional can help. They can advise you on what supplements or alternative foods you may need to consider if you are altering your diet, making sure you stay as healthy as possible."
 

All of our experts recommend if your little one is experiencing any issues with feeding, then speak to your healthcare professional or your GP for additional advice and support.

Here are a few sites that you may find additional useful information:

• https://www.bsaci.org/resources/resources/early-feeding-guidelines/
• https://www.allergyuk.org/resources/weaning-support-pack/
• https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/baby/weaning-and-feeding/food-allergies-in-babies-and-young-children/