A case study on improving pediatric nutrition for a child with growth concerns, focusing on dietary variety and parental education.
Topic
Primary Care
Published on
August 25, 2026
Case Study: Specialist Dietetic Support for Cow’s Milk Protein Allergy in Primary Care
A baby experiencing symptoms of cows’ milk protein allergy (CMPA), such as irritability, crying, and discomfort.
Overview
Cow’s milk protein allergy (CMPA) is one of the most common childhood food allergies, but diagnosis and management can be challenging for both families and healthcare teams.
Within one of our Primary Care Network (PCN) clinics, a GP referred a 7-month-old infant presenting with ongoing reflux, loose stools, and poor weight gain despite feeding adjustments.
Our dietitian worked closely with the family to provide clear guidance, ensure nutritional adequacy, and support the transition to a suitable milk alternative and safe weaning foods.
Our Impact – Case Outcome
Symptoms improved within 2 weeks of eliminating milk safely
Infant’s weight gain returned to the 50th centile within 3 months
Parents reported increased confidence in managing the allergy and preparing balanced meals
There were fewer follow-up visits for feeding concerns, freeing up clinical time
Family provided with a clear reintroduction plan to assess tolerance at the appropriate age
What Made This Case Successful
Our dietitian’s approach combined clinical expertise with practical, family-friendly advice:
Tailored feeding plan - Advising on dairy-free weaning options
Nutrient optimisation - Ensuring calcium, vitamin D, and protein needs were met without dairy
Parental reassurance - Addressing concerns about growth, nutrition, and allergy safety
Clinic Process for CMPA Management
Initial assessment - Reviewing feeding history, symptoms, growth data, and family concerns
Education - Explaining CMPA, safe/unsafe foods
Dietary adjustments - Implementing a an elimination diet while maintaining balanced nutrition
Monitoring - Tracking symptom changes and growth over time
Reintroduction planning - Guiding parents on safe reintroduction/milk ladder when appropriate
Parent Feedback
“We finally understand what’s been upsetting our baby. The dietitian explained everything so clearly and gave us a plan we could follow.”
“Having recipes and shopping tips made such a difference – I felt less stressed and more confident.”
Looking Ahead
This case highlights the value of having dietitians embedded in PCN clinics to support early diagnosis and management of food allergies.
By providing families with specialist advice early, we can:
Improve growth and symptom outcomes for children with CMPA
Reduce unnecessary GP visits and hospital referrals
Give parents the confidence and skills to manage their child’s diet safely
We aim to expand allergy-focused dietetic clinics within PCNs and provide training to health visitors and GPs on recognising and managing CMPA in primary care.
Who are Primary Care Dietitians?
Primary Care Dietitians is England's leading independent provider of specialist dietitians for Primary Care Networks. We partner with 300+ GP practices to deliver evidence-based nutrition care that improves patient outcomes, reduces prescribing costs and eases pressure on GPs.
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