Concerns About Goat Milk Formula for Infants with Kidney Issues

Confusion about goat milk powder?

I previously inquired with Dr.
Hsiao about whether goat milk powder would impose a burden on the kidneys of infants with "polycystic kidney disease with renal hypoplasia." This time, I would like to ask for more detailed information.
Are the mineral contents in commercially available "infant goat milk formula" also excessively high? If one intends to introduce goat milk powder but is concerned that whole goat milk may severely burden the kidneys, would it be advisable to mix half cow's milk powder with half goat milk powder, or to use mostly cow's milk powder and add just one or two teaspoons of goat milk powder? Would this approach help reduce the burden on the kidneys? Alternatively, do you strongly advise against the consumption of goat milk formula for patients with this condition? Please provide your insights, Doctor.

Yi Mami, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2008/04/14

Dr. Xiao Kaiwen reply Pediatrics

Goat milk infant formula is an adjusted formula made from goat milk (where the protein and mineral content is reduced, and the previously lacking folic acid and iron are added in sufficient amounts).
This means that the nutrients have been modified to resemble those in breast milk.
You can choose reputable goat milk infant formulas approved by the health department based on the child's age, but it is still recommended to discuss this with your child's pediatrician (mixing cow's milk and goat's milk is not advised, as their osmotic pressures are incompatible).

Reply Date: 2008/04/14

More Info

When considering the use of goat milk formula for infants, especially those with kidney issues such as "polycystic kidney disease with developmental delay," it is essential to understand the nutritional composition of goat milk and its potential impact on renal function. Goat milk is often touted for its digestibility and nutritional benefits, but it also contains significant levels of minerals, particularly calcium and phosphorus, which can pose challenges for infants with compromised kidney function.

Infants with kidney issues may have difficulty excreting excess minerals, leading to potential complications such as hypercalcemia (high calcium levels) or hyperphosphatemia (high phosphorus levels). Therefore, it is crucial to evaluate the mineral content of any formula being considered. Commercial goat milk formulas may vary in their mineral composition, and some may indeed have higher levels than recommended for infants with kidney problems.

If you are considering introducing goat milk formula, it is advisable to consult with a pediatric nephrologist or a pediatric dietitian who can provide tailored recommendations based on your child's specific health needs. They can assess the overall dietary intake and kidney function to determine the safest approach.

Regarding the idea of mixing cow's milk formula with goat milk formula, this could potentially reduce the overall mineral load, depending on the proportions used. For example, using a combination of half cow's milk formula and half goat milk formula may help balance the mineral intake, but it is essential to ensure that the total intake remains within safe limits for kidney function. Similarly, adding just a tablespoon or two of goat milk powder to a primarily cow's milk formula could be a way to introduce the benefits of goat milk without overwhelming the kidneys with excess minerals.

However, it is crucial to monitor your child closely for any signs of adverse reactions, such as gastrointestinal distress or changes in urine output, which could indicate that the kidneys are struggling to process the nutrients. Regular follow-ups with healthcare providers will help ensure that your child's growth and development are on track while managing their kidney health.

In summary, while goat milk can offer nutritional benefits, its use in infants with kidney issues should be approached with caution. The mineral content must be carefully considered, and any dietary changes should be made under the guidance of a healthcare professional. This ensures that your child receives adequate nutrition without placing undue stress on their kidneys.

Similar Q&A

Mixing Cow and Goat Milk for Infant Nutrition: Is It Safe?

Hello Dr. Cheng: My son is now 4 and a half months old and is currently drinking Enfa A+. A friend mentioned that goat milk formula can be beneficial for the respiratory system. I am considering mixing cow's milk formula with goat milk formula for his feeding. Is this approp...

Dr. Zheng Peian reply Pediatrics
Hello, Ru'er's Mommy: Your baby weighed 2.5 kg at birth and 6.5 kg at four and a half months, which is considered normal. It is recommended to record height, weight, and growth development every two months and document it on the growth chart in the health booklet for re...

Solutions for Infant Vomiting and Constipation Issues

(1) For a two-month-old infant experiencing issues with vomiting and bowel movements, what are the solutions? The symptoms include occasional vomiting after feeding, and bowel movements occurring every two to three days, with the stool being hard at first and then softer afterwar...

Dr. Yu Meiling reply Pediatrics
1. A 2-month-old infant's gastrointestinal motility and digestive capacity are still immature, and the lower esophageal sphincter is relatively relaxed, making them prone to constipation, diarrhea, or spitting up. Cow's milk is not as easily digestible as breast milk. I...

Does Bone Broth Soaked Milk Overload a Baby's Kidneys?

If a broth made from large bones, carrots, and potatoes is used to skim fat from milk, will it overload the kidneys of a one-year-old baby?

Dr. Shi Zhongxian reply Pediatrics
It will not cause kidney strain, and eating it once every few days should be fine.

Benefits of Drinking Fresh Goat Milk During Pregnancy for Child Health

Hello, doctor. I would like to ask you a question—since I don't know which specialty to consult, what are the benefits of drinking fresh goat milk during pregnancy for the child after birth? Thank you for your response.

Dr. Pei Rensheng reply Pediatrics
Hello: 1. Fresh goat milk has deficiencies in folic acid and vitamin B, and a lack of these two nutrients can easily lead to growth retardation in infants, as well as neurological disorders and hematological diseases. Therefore, formula goat milk powder made from fresh goat mil...