Addison had her 6 month appointment and she now weighs 15 lbs 14 oz! She is in the 50percentile for both height and weight so that was great to hear.
Unfortunately, as many of you know, our little Addison has MSPI (Milk Soy Protein Intolerance) so this continues to be the discussion at our doctor's visits because it rarely happens in infants but it has happened to our little girl. I have tried to research this on my own since she was diagnosed and have found little info but I did find these resources just recently and continue to do my own research.
The reason for my post is that many people do not understand what this is and why Addison can only be on formula and baby foods entirely until 1 year of age. By that times we're hopeful she will outgrow this. This means no table foods because of the reaction she may have.
Below is an article explaining MSPI a little further...
Milk Soy Protein Intolerance is diagnosed by pediatricians, family physicians and specialists in pediatric gastroenterology. It seems to be more highly prevalent in the midwest, but throughout the country it is given different names, such as: protein intolerance, food protein-induced colitis or eosinophilic gastroenteritis. MSPI is diagnosed through the history of an irritable infant, or colic-like behavior, poor growth and abnormal (blood streaked) stools. Some infants will exhibit frank blood in their stools. Confirmation of the diagnosis is often made with a biopsy of the intestinal lining which would show an increased amount of eosinophilic cells, eroded intestinal villi and the presence of hemorrhagic tissue. It is thought that the intestinal lining cannot properly digest the proteins (milk and soy) therefore they are taken up into the blood stream where the body treats them like an antigen and produces antibodies mimicking an allergic response. The intestinal tract then recognizes the ingested proteins as it would an allergen and the intestinal lining reacts by becoming inflamed, often shedding blood into the stool. Some blood may be visible in stools and other blood detected by occult blood testing. The lining of the intestine, then, becomes further damaged as it is continuously exposed to these proteins.
No one really knows why the occurrence of MSPI is prevalent in the United States and especially more prevalent in the midwest region, but one of the theories has to do with our more 'sterile environment.' We, in the United States are so preoccupied with keeping our environment clean and free of germs. In other countries, especially those of the third world, infants and children are exposed to so many other more serious bacteria, toxins and allergens that their tolerance may become greater due to increased exposure. It also seems that the occurrence of MSPI is congenital; if one child has it, the chances are very high that the subsequent children will have MSPI and that it may be more severe.
Infants diagnosed with MSPI can still be breastfed if the mother adheres to a milk and soy protein-free diet. Though there are many benefits of breastfeeding, with MSPI the avoidance of high formula cost can be the greatest benefit. The formulas you can buy at most supermarkets or pharmacies are: Alimentum, Progestamil and Nutramigen. These formulas cost $7 to $8 per can which is a 1-2 day supply. Other more specialized formulas, such as Neocate, can be obtained from the pharmacy, or from the doctor prescribing the formula, or at a hospital. These formulas cost anywhere from $31 - $40 per day and up. Of primary issue is cost; can the parents afford to feed their infant?
This info was taken from the article below: http://library.adoption.com/breastfeeding/milk-soy-protein-intolerance-a-mothers-perspective/article/2442/1.html
Dad's blog on MSPI
http://philosopherdad.blogspot.com/2007/06/milk-soy-protein-intolerance.html
Although this sounds scary, Addison will outgrow it and she isn't at a severe stage but could be if we don't watch things closely. The doctors will check her again at 9 months and see how she is doing so we just have to be patient.
We love bathtime
Addison is getting better at sitting unsupported and is so anxious to crawl but just not quite there yet. She has started making this clicking sound that has become a very familiar sound in our house. I'll post the video soon.
This weekend we spent some time with family and Addison was able to chat with cousin Harley
Harley and Mommy Emily (Daddy's in the background)
