n this episode of Spill the Milk, Nicki Davis, RN, BSN, IBCLC, sits down with pediatric nurse practitioner Emily to break down one of the most confusing and over-diagnosed issues in infancy — CMPA (cow’s milk protein allergy) — and the pressure parents feel to start cow’s milk at 12 months.

They unpack what CMPA actually is, how it’s diagnosed (and who can diagnose it), and what symptoms are real versus what’s actually normal baby behavior. Nicki and Emily also discuss why not every case of blood in baby’s stool equals CMPA, the importance of serial testing, and how over-labeling babies can lead to unnecessary worry and restrictions.

Then they shift gears to talk about the big 12-month question: Does your baby actually need cow’s milk? Learn where this recommendation even came from — yes, the “Got Milk” campaign had a lot to do with it — how too much dairy can contribute to anemia, and what healthy alternatives exist for parents who choose not to serve cow’s milk in a cup or bottle.

This episode is a reality check for parents who just want the facts without the fluff.

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