Core Carbohydrates: Glucose Syrup and Maltodextrin
Instead of lactose, Aptamil Lactose Free primarily uses glucose syrup and maltodextrin as its carbohydrate sources. This is vital for infants with a medically diagnosed intolerance to lactose, the sugar found in milk. These alternative carbohydrates are easily digestible and provide the necessary energy for a baby’s growth and development. The formula is specifically engineered to deliver complete nutrition, helping to alleviate symptoms of lactose intolerance such as diarrhea, gas, and bloating.
Protein and Fat Profile
Aptamil Lactose Free is still a cow's milk-based formula, and its primary protein source is calcium caseinate. This is different from a hydrolyzed or soy-based formula, as lactose-free formulas are not suitable for babies with a cow's milk protein allergy. The formula also contains a blend of vegetable oils, including palm, coconut, rapeseed, and high-oleic sunflower oils, to provide essential fats.
List of Main Aptamil Lactose Free Ingredients
- Carbohydrates: Glucose Syrup, Maltodextrin.
- Fats: Vegetable Oils (Palm, Coconut, Rapeseed, High Oleic Sunflower, Sunflower), Fish Oil (source of LCPs).
- Proteins: Calcium Caseinate (from cow's milk).
- Emulsifier: Soy Lecithin.
- Vitamins: Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin D3, Vitamin E, Vitamin K1, Thiamin (B1), Riboflavin (B2), Niacin (B3), Pantothenic acid (B5), Vitamin B6, Biotin (B7), Folic Acid (B9), Vitamin B12.
- Minerals: Calcium, Phosphorus, Sodium, Potassium, Chloride, Magnesium, Iron, Zinc, Copper, Manganese, Fluoride, Selenium, Iodine.
- Other Nutrients: L-Cysteine, Choline Chloride, Oil from Mortierella Alpina, Inositol, Taurine, L-Tryptophan, L-Carnitine, Nucleotides.
Vitamins, Minerals, and Other Nutrients
The formula is fortified with a wide array of vitamins and minerals to support a baby's nutritional needs. It contains long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPs), specifically Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and Arachidonic acid (AA), which are crucial for brain and eye development. Additionally, nucleotides are included to support the immune system and gut health.
Aptamil Lactose Free vs. Other Specialized Formulas
Choosing the right formula depends on a baby's specific needs, which should always be determined by a healthcare professional. Here is a comparison of Aptamil Lactose Free with other types of specialized formulas:
| Feature | Aptamil Lactose Free | Extensively Hydrolyzed Formula (e.g., Aptamil Pepti) | Soy-Based Formula | Comfort Formula |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carbohydrate Source | Glucose Syrup, Maltodextrin | Glucose Syrup | Corn Syrup, Sucrose | Reduced Lactose |
| Protein Source | Calcium Caseinate (Cow's Milk) | Hydrolyzed Cow's Milk Protein | Soy Protein Isolate | Partially Hydrolyzed Cow's Milk Protein |
| Primary Use | Medically diagnosed lactose intolerance | Cow's milk protein allergy | Lactose intolerance, milk protein allergy (check with doctor) | Digestive problems like colic, constipation (no proven evidence) |
| Allergens | Contains milk, fish, soy | Contains milk, fish, soy | Contains soy | Contains milk, fish, soy |
| Taste | Sweeter than regular milk due to carbohydrate type | Partially broken down protein can alter taste | Different taste profile from cow's milk formulas | Some babies may find it easier to digest |
Understanding the 'No Lactose' Requirement
For infants with true congenital lactase deficiency or lactose intolerance following gastroenteritis, avoiding lactose is essential. Aptamil's approach of substituting lactose with other carbohydrates ensures the baby can still receive a nutritionally complete diet without the gastrointestinal distress caused by the inability to digest lactose. However, it is crucial to understand that this formula still contains cow's milk protein and is not suitable for infants with a cow's milk protein allergy (CMPA).
Conclusion
Aptamil Lactose Free is a specialized formula for infants with lactose intolerance, providing a comprehensive nutritional profile without the milk sugar lactose. It replaces lactose with glucose syrup and maltodextrin and contains a blend of fats, vitamins, minerals, and other important nutrients like LCPs and nucleotides. While it offers a complete nutritional solution for lactose-intolerant infants, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and guidance before making any changes to your baby’s diet. For infants with a cow's milk protein allergy, a different type of formula, such as a extensively hydrolyzed one, would be more appropriate.
