Overview

This case series study aimed to explore the impact of Capricare^® whole goat milk formula (WGMF) in managing functional gastrointestinal disturbances and improving wellbeing in infants aged 1–4 months. Infants with symptoms of constipation consuming standard cow milk formula had improvement in their stool characteristics and reduction in crying when they moved to WGMF.

Methods

Principal Investigator: Dr Ramon Tormo, Gastroenterology and Nutrition, Barcelona, Spain

Ethics approval: Sant Cugat del Vallès. Barcelona

Formulations: Commercially available Capricare Whole Goat Milk Formula (20:80 whey to casein ratio; more than 50% total fat from goat milk; no added whey).

This study used a case-series design. Twenty-three infants presenting with constipation symptoms at two paediatric clinics in Barcelona, Spain, were enrolled in this study (n=23). Symptoms included difficulty defecating, painful stools, crying, and irritability. All participants were previously fed cow milk formula (CMF) and were between the ages of 1 and 4 months. No infants received treatment for constipation (milk oligosaccharides, hydrolysates, or laxatives) before or during the study.

Infants were switched from CMF to WGMF for three weeks. Outcomes were assessed through questionnaires, stool sample analysis, and parental satisfaction (Likert-type scale) at enrolment and after 3 weeks of using the WGMF. Stool consistency was classified using the Bristol Stool Scale, while stool composition (fat, water, nitrogen, and carbohydrates) was analysed using the near-infrared reflectance analysis method.

Key findings

Although stool frequency remained consistent between enrolment and after three weeks consuming WGMF, stool consistency shifted from hard (Bristol score 1–3) to softer (Bristol score 3–5).* The stool fat content decreased significantly,† but nitrogen, water, and carbohydrate levels remained unchanged.

Crying episodes reduced substantially, with fewer episodes after feeding, and total crying hours dropped markedly.^‡ Parental satisfaction with WGMF increased, with most reporting improvements within 3–5 days of starting WGMF.

Conclusion

The findings suggest that WGMF may benefit infants with constipation and gastrointestinal disturbances. Parents reported good acceptance and a positive change in behaviour within 5 days of switching to WGMF. The lower fat excretion and improved stool consistency are likely due to the higher sn-2 palmitic acid content in WGMF.

This case study differs from the clinical studies in that it monitors the impact of changing from standard CMF to WGMF for infants with constipation. The parents and clinicians are not blinded to the intervention, and a parallel control group is not included.