Which formula is recommended for neonates with galactosemia?

• A. Cow’s milk-based formula
• B. Lactose-free formula
• C. Soy-based formula
• D. Protein hydrolysate formula

Answer: (C)

When a neonate has galactosemia, the diet must be completely free of galactose because the infant cannot metabolize it, leading to harmful accumulation. Cow’s milk–based formulas contain lactose, which breaks down into glucose and galactose, so they are not suitable. Lactose-free formulas might seem promising, but many are dairy-derived and can still release galactose, so they’re not guaranteed to be galactose-free. Soy-based formulas, on the other hand, provide nutrition without lactose or galactose, making them the appropriate choice to avoid galactose intake.