Date of Graduation
5-2026
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Bachelor of Science in Human Environmental Sciences
Degree Level
Undergraduate
Department
Human Nutrition and Hospitality Innovation
Advisor/Mentor
Mallori Roberts
Committee Member
Sabrina Trudo
Second Committee Member
Nancy Buckley
Abstract
Cow’s milk protein allergy (CMPA) is one of the most common food allergies in infancy, affecting an estimated 2–3% of infants, including those who are breastfed. Many symptoms of CMPA overlap with gastrointestinal disorders and lactose intolerance, leading to frequent misdiagnosis and unnecessary maternal dietary restriction. Breastfeeding mothers who eliminate dairy to manage suspected CMPA often face nutritional deficiencies, emotional strain, and financial burden, while infants risk poor growth if symptoms are not properly addressed. Breastfeeding is viewed as the optimal source of nutrition for infants providing many cognitive benefits and positive maternal effects like decreased stress and risks of chronic diseases. This project aimed to develop an evidence‑based, user‑friendly decision‑making tool to help breastfeeding mothers and caregivers recognize CMPA symptoms, understand sources of cow’s milk protein, and follow appropriate elimination and reintroduction steps. Using a comprehensive literature review, key concepts were organized into a structured flowchart emphasizing symptom identification, maternal dietary cow’s milk sources, a 2–4‑week elimination trial, and guided reintroduction and oral food challenge. The resulting tool translates complex clinical guidance into an accessible visual resource intended to support shared decision‑making, reduce unnecessary dietary restriction and stress, and promote continued breastfeeding when possible. This work highlights the need for clearer public education on CMPA and provides a practical resource for families and healthcare professionals navigating early infant feeding challenges.
Keywords
Breastfeeding; cow’s milk protein allergy (CMPA); elimination diet; food allergy; infant; reintroduction diet.
Citation
Griffith, R. M. (2026). Developing a decision-making tool for breast-feeding mothers whose babies have a cow's milk protein allergy. Human Nutrition and Hospitality Management Undergraduate Honors Theses Retrieved from https://scholarworks.uark.edu/hnhiuht/42
