Cows' Milk Protein Allergy (CMPA)

Do you suspect your baby may be allergic to cow's milk protein?

Cow's milk protein allergy (CMPA), also known as cow's milk allergy (CMA), is one of the most common food allergies in babies and young children. There are many symptoms associated with CMPA, but it can be easily managed with the correct diet, so getting a diagnosis is very important. The good news is that the majority of children who are allergic to cow's milk will outgrow this by the time they are 3 years old.

CMPA symptoms may include:

Skin Problems

rashes, hives, dry, scaly or itchy skin.

Digestive system problems

diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, reflux.

Respiratory system problems

noisy breathing, coughing, runny nose.

Your doctor or health care professional (HCP) will advise you on how to improve your baby’s symptoms and how to eliminate cow's milk protein from your baby’s diet. This should in no way affect your breastfeeding routine.

Once diagnosed, cow's milk allergy symptoms can be easily managed with the correct support.

Are CMPA and Lactose Intolerance the same?

CMPA is sometimes confused with lactose intolerance as they can share some symptoms, but they’re actually two very different things with completely different causes and treatments.

Lactose intolerance doesn’t involve the immune system. Instead, it is the inability to digest sugar found in cow’s milk. It’s common in adults, but very rare in children under the age of 5.

Lactose is in fact one of the most important carbohydrates found in breast milk and provides many benefits to babies, such as helping to promote a healthy gut flora and calcium absorption.