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Symptomatic hypercalcemia in an infant secondary to excessive consumption of almond milk as a formula alternative

Whitney C Gulledge1, Brittany M Gerald1,2, Kathryn M Sumpter2

  • 1Department of Pediatrics University of Tennessee Health Science Center Memphis Tennessee USA.

JPGN Reports
|March 28, 2024
PubMed

Insights

A 4-month-old infant developed hypercalcemia due to consuming almond milk during an infant formula shortage. This case highlights the risks of using milk alternatives as a primary nutrition source for infants.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Clinical Nutrition
  • Endocrinology

Background:

  • Infant formula shortages can lead to the use of alternative milk sources.
  • Nutritional requirements for infants are specific and crucial for development.

Observation:

  • A 4-month-old infant presented with emesis, decreased urine output, weight loss, fussiness, and lethargy.
  • The infant was exclusively fed unsweetened almond milk due to formula unavailability.

Findings:

  • Serum calcium levels were elevated at 14.1 mg/dL.
  • Serum phosphate levels were decreased at 1.6 mg/dL.
  • Serum parathyroid hormone levels were suppressed at <4 pg/mL, indicating hypercalcemia.

Implications:

  • Unsweetened almond milk is nutritionally inadequate and potentially harmful as a primary infant food source.
  • Milk alternatives are often calorie-poor, low in fat and protein, and high in free water and calcium.
  • This case underscores the critical need for safe and appropriate infant nutrition, especially during supply chain disruptions.

Keywords:
alternative formulahypophosphatemiaplant milk

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