HMOs, the third solid component of human milk, are complex structures with a high potential for specific functions. HMOs and prebiotic oligosaccharides have completely different structures, which impact on their functions. Additionally to prebiotic effects, HMOs reduces adhesion of pathogens and have immune modulator effect.

This is the story of Robin, who showed symptoms of Cow’s Milk Protein Allergy (CMPA) at just one month. His parents, Katrien and Francis, became worried when he started crying more often and was not feeling comfortable. He suffered from a lot of constipation, and had problems with dry skin and red lumps that were appearing on his body. Robin was brought to see a paediatrician, who later diagnosed him with Cow’s Milk Protein Allergy.

Professor Antonella Muraro, Paediatric Allergist and Head of the Food Allergy Center, Padua University Hospital, Italy, discusses the process of diagnosing and confirming diagnosis of Cow's Milk Protein Allergy (CMPA) in infants. Although CMPA is common in children, particularly babies, it is sometimes difficult to diagnose. There are allergy tests which can be carried out to aid diagnosis, however no one test can be used in isolation. The results of each allergy test forms a key piece of the puzzle.

Cow's Milk Protein Allergy (CMPA) is common in infants but can be easily managed once diagnosed. The allergy generally affects infants in the first year of their lives and can be difficult to diagnose due to common symptoms. Professor Yvan Vanderplas and Professor Antonella Muraro, paediatric and allergy specialists, answer 3 key questions about the journey to successfully diagnosing cow's milk protein (CMPA) allergies in children.
1. What are the steps to confirm diagnosis of CMPA?
2. How fast can one expect to see symptom relief after elimination of cow's milk protein?
3. What is the final step to confirm diagnosis?
For further information about diagnosing CMPAs, visit Nestlé Health Science.