Following a safe and strict milk and/or wheat-free diet is extremely difficult but help is available. Raisingkids.co.uk's paediatric dietitian, David Swain, offers some advice.

Raisingkids member's query
We think our 11 mth-old is milk intolerant and has a problem with wheat. It makes her ezcema flare up - the last time she had a breadstick it looked like I had dropped her in boiling water.

The GP is basically 'leaving me to it' and I'd like to know I'm doing my best for her. I buy her gluten-free biscuits and bread, dairy-free spread, and milk- and gluten-free prepared babyfood. She's still on pureed food although she'll eat crisps, biscuits, etc. What can I do to help her - and who can help me?

David's advice
From what you say, it sounds as if your daughter has a wheat allergy and you seem to think there's a problem with milk as well. I'd definitely go back to your GP again, and ask to be referred to a paediatric dietitian. In addition, I would also discuss with your GP whether a referral to a hospital paediatrician would be appropriate.

Following a safe and strict milk and/or wheat-free diet is extremely difficult but help is available and a dietitian will be able to recommend which infant formulas and other products are safe for your daughter. Furthermore, they will be able to assess her diet and see if it's lacking in any nutrients or micronutrients. Supermarkets produce lists of foods that are free from milk and wheat so I'd advise you to contact your local store. Interestingly, not all gluten-free products are wheat-free so you need to check these products carefully.

To conclude, I would recommend that you speak to your GP as soon as possible and ask for the appropriate referral. Finally, avoid giving your daughter any nuts until she is at least 3 yrs-old.

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