What are some lactose-free infant formula brands?

Lactose-Free Infant Formula Brands

For infants requiring lactose-free formulas, soy-based formulas and lactose-free milk protein-based formulas are both safe and effective options that support normal growth and development.

Clinical Context for Lactose-Free Formulas

Lactose-free formulas are indicated in specific clinical situations rather than for routine feeding:

• Glycogen Storage Disease Type I: Infants require formulas completely free of sucrose, fructose, and lactose, with soy-based, sugar-free formulas being the recommended option 1
• Acute diarrhea with severe symptoms: Lactose-free or lactose-reduced formulas may be considered for 2-4 weeks in severe cases after rehydration 2
• Persistent constipation: If symptoms persist despite other interventions, switching to lactose-free or lactose-reduced formulas can be considered 3

Types of Lactose-Free Formulas

Soy-Based Formulas

• These are lactose-free by nature and represent the logical choice when lactose exclusion is necessary 4
• Should only be used by medical prescription for infants with diagnosed nutritional problems 4

Lactose-Free Milk Protein-Based Formulas

• Clinical trials demonstrate these formulas support normal growth (weight gain 31.1 g/day) comparable to standard lactose-containing formulas (29.4 g/day) 5
• Infants fed lactose-free milk protein formulas had softer stools and lower spit-up rates compared to lactose-containing formulas 5
• Serum biochemistries remain within normal reference ranges 5, 6
• Growth parameters (weight, length, head circumference) are equivalent to lactose-containing formulas over 12-week trials 6

Important Caveats

Do not use lactose-free formulas for allergy prevention or treatment:

• Soy formulas and lactose-free formulas are not appropriate for treating cow's milk protein allergy 4
• For proven cow's milk allergy, high-degree protein hydrolysate formulas are required 4

Breastfeeding remains superior:

• Continue breastfeeding whenever possible, even during diarrheal illness, as it reduces stool output and severity 2
• For breastfed infants with constipation, continue nursing on demand rather than switching to formula 3

Formula switching should be medically indicated:

• Lactose-free formulas should be used only when there is a clear medical indication, not for perceived intolerance alone 7
• Close monitoring by medical professionals is essential for infants on specialty formulas 7