FEEDING STRATEGIES AND NUTRITIONAL STATUS OF INFANTS AGED 0–6 MONTHS WITH COW’S MILK ALLERGY (CMPA): A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY
Date
2026-05-12
Authors
Mai Mohammed Esleemeyah
Doaa Hafez Mujahed
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Deanship of Scientific Research - Al-Quds University
Abstract
Background: Cow’s milk protein allergy (CMPA) is one of the most common food allergies in infancy, affecting growth, nutritional status, and overall health if not properly managed. Dietary elimination of cow’s milk protein is the main treatment approach; however, concerns remain regarding the adequacy of such interventions in supporting optimal infant growth and development. In addition, adherence to dietary management and maternal knowledge may influence clinical and nutritional outcomes.
Objectives: This study aimed to assess feeding strategies used in infants with CMPA and to evaluate their association with symptom improvement and nutritional status. Specifically, it examined the relationship between feeding type, adherence to dietary intervention, and outcomes such as symptom response, growth indicators (weight and length), and time to improvement.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 20 mother–infant pairs. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire completed by mothers. Participants were categorized according to feeding strategies, including maternal dietary modification, exclusive breastfeeding, specialized formula feeding, or combinations of these approaches. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS (version 23). Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the data, while inferential tests (Chi-square, t-test, ANOVA, and Spearman correlation) were applied to examine associations between variables. A p-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.