La breastmilk remains the best option for feeding the baby, as it provides the essential nutrients and antibodies necessary for its proper development. However, in some cases, parents look for alternatives such as goat's milkWhy are more and more pediatricians recommending it instead of cow's milk?
Why choose goat milk for babies?
Goat milk has gained popularity in infant nutrition due to its easy digestion and low allergenic load. Various studies have shown that this option can be beneficial for babies with digestive problems, lactose intolerance or allergy to cow's milk protein.
Benefits of goat milk in babies
- Less allergens: It contains fewer proteins responsible for allergies compared to cow's milk.
- Greater digestibility: Its fats and proteins form smaller micelles, facilitating digestion.
- Rich in essential nutrients: Provides higher levels of calcium, phosphorus and vitamins A and B.
- Low in lactose: Because it contains less lactose than cow's milk, it is better tolerated by some babies.
Comparison between goat milk and cow milk
When evaluating which one is best for a baby, it is important to consider its components:
| Feature | Goat milk | Cow's Milk |
|---|---|---|
| Lactose content | Minor (4,1%) | Older (4,7%) |
| Allergenic proteins | Less Alpha S1 Casein | Higher amount of allergenic proteins |
| Digestibility | Easier to digest | Heavier on the stomach |
| Calcium content | Greater | Minor |
When is goat milk recommended for babies?
Although goat milk has multiple benefits, its consumption should be regulated. Pediatricians recommend its introduction from 12 months, in the form of goat milk-based infant formula. It is essential to consult a specialist if the baby has cow's milk allergy, since cross-reactions may occur.
How to choose a good goat milk infant formula?
If you want to opt for a formula made with goat's milk, it is important to verify that it is enriched with essential nutrients on the table:
- DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), beneficial for cognitive development.
- Prebiotics and probiotics that promote intestinal health.
- Iron, to prevent anemia.
Brands such as Holle, Capricare and Babybio have developed high-quality formulas that meet nutritional standards. Before introducing any type of formula, consult with your pediatrician.
Precautions and contraindications
It is important to keep in mind some Precautions Regarding the use of goat milk in babies:
- It is not recommended to give raw goat milk to babies under 1 year of age, as it does not cover all their nutritional needs.
- There may be cases of cross-allergy with cow's milk.
- It should be supplemented with other foods rich in folic acid due to its low content of this nutrient.
Choosing the best food for a baby is an important decision. Goat milk can be a beneficial alternative for some children thanks to its easy digestion and lower allergenic load. However, it is always advisable to consult a pediatrician before making changes to the baby's diet.
My baby is 3 months old and I have given him many formulas based on cow's milk and he has not tolerated any, it seems that he has an allergy to cow's milk protein today the doctor told me to give him goat's milk, why is it much more digestible and very similar to breast milk, of course it does NOT replace breast milk, but it is the best digested, today I will try it I hope and it works for me, I have read a lot of good things about goat milk
Hello I would love to know how it went with your baby if he liked goat's milk and it didn't hurt him, please let me know I'm struggling a lot with my baby