On top of cow milk being completely ineffecient for the nutritional needs of infants, and infants’ digestive systems being incapable of breaking the milk down to properly utilize the benefits, it also is one of the leading allergens in the world.
Without knowing an adopted child’s medical history, it would be an even greater risk to introduce major allergens (milk, soy, peanuts, tree nuts) before the one-year mark. The ealier and more common an introduction, the more likely the child will develop a life-long allergy. A child is also far more likely to develop other allergies to foods and inhalants later in life if cow milk is introduced at a young age.
While children with a family history of asthma, allergies, hay fever, or eczema are far more likely to have allergies, it is not uncommon for infants to develop allergies, especially to milk. The symptoms of infant allergy are usually gastroentestinal or dermatological. There are a number of allergens within milk, which explains why some people can tolerate certain types of milk-based products (ie: soft, white cheese) while not others (ie: hard cheese). With a temporary elimination of the allergen, most infants outgrow their food allergies, though a notable percentage do not.
There is crossreactivity between cow’s and goat’s and sheep’s milk as these animals are members of the same family. The difference is in the whey present in the milk, meaning 60% of those with a cow milk allergy will also be allergic to goat and sheep milk.
Found these online:
There are many studies supporting avoidance of cow’s milk and prolonged breastfeeding as preventive measures. In a report of a prevention program in Denmark, breastfeeding or a hypoallergenic formula and avoidance of other foods during the first six months of life had a protective effect (1). The authors reviewed 20 prospective studies almost all of which showed a reduction of atopic dermatitis and wheeze when preventive measures were taken (17). In a follow-up study of the effects of maternal antigen avoidance after four years, the authors found avoidance of cow’s milk, fish and egg during the first three months of lactation decreased both the current prevalence and the cumulative incidence of AD [Atopic Dermatitis] at age four in atopic children (38).
Cow’s milk for infants and children
In 1992, the American Academy of Pediatricians released their statement regarding the use of whole cow’s milk during infancy. The findings were published in “Pediatrics” volume 89, number 6 in June of 1992. Plainly stated, the Academy recommended that whole cow’s milk and low-iron formulas not be used during the first year of life.
Infants fed whole cow’s milk receive inadequate amounts of Vitamin E, iron, essential fatty acids, and excessive amounts of protein, sodium, and potassium. These levels may be too high for the infant’s system to handle. Additionally, whole cow’s milk protein and fat are more difficult for an infant to digest and absorb.
The most dramatic effects are on iron levels in the body. Infants fed breast milk or iron fortified formula have normal iron levels. Recent studies show infants often have depleted levels when started on cow’s milk at six months of age.
Optimal nutrition in an infant involves selecting the appropriate milk source and eventually introducing the infant to solid foods. In achieving this goal, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that infants be fed breast milk or iron-fortified formula during the first twelve months of life. Between the ages of four to six months, appropriate solid foods may be added. Taking breast milk or iron-fortified formula, along with the age-appropriate solid foods and juices during the first year of life, allows for more balanced nutrition.
Recommendations
Skim or 2% milk:
Under one year of age, skim and 2% (low-fat) milk have no place in the diet. They supply too much protein, potassium, and sodium while not enough calories for the growing infant. Children also need the fat for proper growth and development including brain development.
It’s a great thing for moms and babies to be able to receive milk when needed, and for moms to donate when they have an abundance of milk!