Unless a midwife, health visitor or GP suggests otherwise, first infant formula is the only formula your baby needs. Your baby can stay on it when you start to introduce your baby's first solid foods at around 6 months and they can drink it throughout their first year.

Lactose-free formula is available in pharmacies and shops, but if you think your baby may be lactose intolerant, it's important to speak to a midwife, health visitor or GP. Hypoallergenic formula The only issue is that as it is still a dairy product, it is not vegan, so if you are looking for completely plant-based alternatives, it isn’t the option for you.The cows' milk in formula contains 2 types of proteins – whey and casein. First infant formula is based on whey protein which is thought to be easier to digest than other types of formula. Whole cows' milk is a suitable choice as a main drink for your child from age 1. Semi-skimmed cows' milk is a suitable main drink for children over 2 who are eating a balanced diet. Types of milk to avoid If you have ‘atopy’ (eczema, asthma, other allergies, hay fever), there is a very small risk that you can develop an allergy to milk protein if you completely avoid it for a long time. For plant-based dairy-free options keep reading, as there will be a few coming up. 2. Powdered Almond Milk

The chemical structure of phytoestrogens is similar to the female hormone oestrogen. Because of this, there are concerns that they could affect a baby's reproductive development, especially in babies who drink only soya-based infant formula. Research shows that switching to follow-on formula at 6 months has no benefits for your baby. Your baby can continue to have first infant formula as their main drink until they are 1 year old. It's important to take extra care when making up and storing these products as powdered formula is not sterile and making it up at lower temperatures will not kill any harmful bacteria it may contain. Next up, and the first of many plant-based options on our list, is this Ecomil Almond Milk Powder. Almonds have been making waves over the past few years, and for good reason. Because obviously, your body is not like a lab, whether these work for you will depend. Some people experience fantastic results, others not so much. If you love dairy that much though and are looking for something to help, I haven’t found any better on the market than these from Lactaid.

SMA LF® Lactose Free Infant Milk

Soya formula is made from soya beans, not cows' milk. It's occasionally used as an alternative to cows' milk formula for babies who have cows' milk allergy.

The most unique flavor on our list, this Nutricost Coconut Milk Powder tastes like, well, coconuts. When your baby is 1 year old, they can start to drink whole cows' milk or sheep's or goats' milk (as long as these milks are pasteurised). Non-dairy sources of protein include meat, fish, eggs, beans/pulses, tofu and nuts. Meal ideas Breakfast If you would like a printed copy of this information in a table format, please speak to your clinician. Milk High lactose (more than 2g /100g)

Dietary advice for avoiding lactose

You can use it to make ice creams, smoothies, or just drink it on its own. Lactase Enzyme – Lactose Intolerance Relief Caplets Comfort formula is made from partly broken down (partially hydrolysed) proteins. It's not suitable for babies with cows' milk allergy. Follow-on formula goats' or sheep's milk (but it's fine to use them when cooking for your baby, as long as they are pasteurised)