Growth Patterns of Indonesian Infants with Cow's Milk Allergy and Fed with Soy-Based Infant Formula

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Allergy and Immunology
• Nutrition Science

Background:

• Cow's milk allergy (CMA) is a common concern in infants.
• Soy-based infant formula is increasingly used as an alternative for infants with CMA.
• Evidence on the growth patterns of CMA infants fed soy formula in specific populations is needed.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the growth patterns of infants diagnosed with cow's milk allergy (CMA) when fed soy-based infant formula.
• To assess the safety and tolerance of soy-based infant formula in this vulnerable infant population.
• To provide data specific to an Indonesian setting regarding CMA infant nutrition.

Main Methods:

• A multi-site intervention study was conducted over six months.
• Full-term, normal birth weight infants with CMA were provided soy-based infant formula.
• Growth parameters (weight, height, head circumference) and adverse events were monitored regularly.

Main Results:

• Most infants demonstrated normal nutritional status for weight-for-age, length-for-age, weight-for-length, and head-circumference-for-age, according to WHO growth charts.
• Statistically significant improvements were observed in these growth parameters from baseline to the end of the study.
• No allergic symptoms or intolerance to the soy formula were reported during the intervention period.

Conclusions:

• Soy-based infant formula supports a normal growth pattern in infants with cow's milk allergy (CMA).
• Soy formula appears to be a safe and well-tolerated alternative for managing CMA in infants.
• The findings support the use of soy-based formula for Indonesian infants with CMA.