Studies Claim Infant Formula Products Are Harmful: What You Should Know
Every parent wants their baby to get the correct nutrition so that they grow healthy. For this, most depend on infant formula products that claim to benefit a child’s brain development and growth. However, recent baby formula lawsuits reveal a different story. Parents across the world claim that infant formula products cause NEC (necrotizing enterocolitis) in their babies, which is a fatal intestinal disease.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) released new clinical guidance cautioning parents about the dangers of toddler formula. It said that even though baby formula products have been marketed as nutritious and healthy; they have minimal or no health value at all.
In this article, we will talk about the studies that suggest infant formula fails to meet its claims. Additionally, we will also share the link between baby formula and NEC and how parents can seek legal assistance.
Shortcomings of Infant Formula
Toddler milk has enhanced vitamin D and E levels compared to unprotected cow’s milk. However, the majority of milk that is sold in the United States is protected. Hence, AAP claims that babies consuming solid food don’t need infant formula products.
Steven A. Abrams, an ex-member of AAP’s nutrition committee, asserted that these products can act as a useful alternative for a few infants who have certain medical conditions or aren’t able to drink milk. However, parents should only consider using infant formula milk after a pediatrician approves it.
The “Older Infant-Young Child Formulas” report by AAP stated these products provide no nutritional benefit for healthy babies. In most cases, it has added sugars and high sodium levels. As a result, toddlers develop a sweet tooth that lasts lifelong. Additionally, researchers found out that baby formula products with corn syrup maximize the risk of fatty liver disease and obesity as kids grow up.
That aside, infant formula products claim to enhance immune function and brain development in kids. The FDA hasn’t approved of this claim. Neither is there any scientific evidence that backs it up.
Therefore, parents must exercise caution before they decide to opt for this product. That way, they can keep their infants safe from the side effects of infant formula. And parents whose babies have developed NEC after using these products can file an NEC baby formula lawsuit.
Infant Formula and NEC: Understanding the Link
In February 2024, Wsls.com reported on a trial held in Illinois that shed light on the way babies in NICUs (neonatal intensive care units) were fed. Studies reveal that premature babies who are fed infant formula containing cow’s milk have a tendency to develop NEC and suffer immensely. The CDC shares that one out of every ten infants in the NICU dies because of this fatal disease.
When affected by NEC, bacteria invade an infant’s intestinal wall, which leads to inflammation. It can develop a gap or crack, which enables harmful germs to leak inside the abdomen. And if this condition is not treated medically, it can lead to severe infections and even death.
The symptoms of NEC can differ from one infant to the other. The initial signs start surfacing within the first two weeks of being fed with infant formula. A few common symptoms include:
- A bloated or swollen belly
- Food that remains in the stomach and doesn’t pass through the intestines
- Blood on the stool
- The presence of green fluid in the baby’s stomach
- Reduced heart rate
- Difficulty in breathing
There can be other medical problems and digestive issues that have similar symptoms to NEC. Hence, it is essential to check with the doctor to determine whether your infant is suffering from this fatal condition or any other problem.
How to Seek Legal Compensation?
Considering the symptoms, it is evident that NEC makes infants and their parents suffer. In some cases, infants die, and in other cases, even if they survive, there are other health complications lifelong. And it can be avoided by not using infant formula products.
According to the latest Drugwatch news, as of March 2024, the total number of NEC lawsuits that are pending in MDL totals 405. The litigation is in its early stages, and there are yet no jury verdicts or approved settlements. But that doesn’t mean parents shouldn’t report the problems they have faced after feeding their babies with infant formula products.
TorHoerman Law states that parents should compile medical documents, healthcare data, and every piece of evidence and share it with a lawyer. They will determine whether the victims are eligible for the claim. They will also work towards securing fair compensation to cover the damages and suffering they have endured. Since each case is different, a lawyer will update claimants about their probable payout amounts.
In conclusion, parents often use infant formula, hoping that it will give their babies all the nutrients they need for healthy growth. Often, women who are career-driven use baby formula as a replacement for breast-feeding, only to realize that it leads to NEC. Parents need to stay aware of the side effects of baby formula products and seek both medical and legal aid if their infants have suffered from them.
