In this episode of the Journal of Human Lactation podcast, hosts Ellen Chetwynd and Adina Kopinsky discuss the From the Field article ”Supporting Families as They Navigate Infant Food Allergies” with the authors Taylor Silver and Trillitye Paullin.

Published in Journal of Human Lactation, Volume 42, Issue 1, this review examines current research on dietary protein transfer into human milk and provides practical guidance for clinicians supporting breastfeeding families with suspected infant food allergies.

Key takeaways include:

• Dietary proteins typically appear in human milk for only a short time, rather than remaining for weeks.

• Infant symptoms often reflect healing from a previous reaction rather than ongoing exposure through breast milk.

• Most food allergies encountered during breastfeeding are non-IgE mediated and require careful clinical assessment rather than standard allergy testing.

• Targeted elimination diets with planned food reintroduction can help avoid unnecessary long-term dietary restrictions.

• IBCLCs play a key role in supporting breastfeeding families through assessment, education, milk supply management, and appropriate referrals.

• The discussion also explores the role of the infant microbiome, probiotics, and the importance of interdisciplinary care.

This episode highlights how emerging evidence can help clinicians provide more individualized, family-centered care while protecting the breastfeeding relationship.

Link to the article:

Silver T, Paullin T. Supporting Families as They Navigate Infant Food Allergies. Journal of Human Lactation. 2026;42(1).

https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/08903344251401908

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