ROLE OF HYDROLYZED FORMULAS IN NUTRITIONAL ALLERGY PREVENTION IN INFANTS

Background. In recent years, more and more discussions have arisen wit h regard to the role of (partially) hydrolyzed formulas as standard fe edings for infants with a high risk to have allergy. Methods. This rev iew is based on an extensive overview of the literature dealing with t he subjects of allergy prevention and hydrolyzed formulas. Results. Al though breast-feeding should receive absolute priority in the nutritio n of infants, the existence of artificial milk formulas as an addition to or replacement of breast milk is a necessity. In high-risk infants with a family history of allergy, we might consider a hypoallergenic formula instead of the classical start formulas to reduce the risk of allergy. From a nutritional point of view, these formulas should only be hydrolyzed as much as necessary. On the other hand, for the treatme nt of food allergies, the peptides of the semi-elementary infant formu las should be as short as possible. This can, however, have an impact on the nutritional value of the formula. Therefore, a difference is ma de between partial and complete hydrolysates. Conclusion. While a firm recommendation is not yet possible, physicians might consider partial hydrolysate formulas in high-risk infants if parents can afford the h igher-cost option.