Early introduction of milk feeds in acute infantile gastro-enteritis. A controlled study

A blind controlled trial was performed to test the hypothesis that early introduction of full-strength cow's milk (FCM) during an attack of acute infantile gastroenteritis does not prolong the course of the illness. A total of 74 children matched for age was admitted to the trial, which compared the effect of FCM with that of graduated milk (the strength of which was gradually increased). Thirteen children (17.5%) were withdrawn because of lactose malabsorption; of those remaining, 29 were given FCM and 32 graduated milk. The mean duration of diarrhoea was 2,62 days for those on FCM and 2,64 days for those given graduated milk (P = 0,71, not significant). Early introduction of FCM therefore does not prolong the course of acute infantile gastroenteritis. Because of the prevalence of malnutrition in South Africa the practice of giving clear fluids or diluted milk during an attack of gastro-enteritis is unnecessary and dangerous.