My 12 mo has a cows milk protein allergy - he is still breastfed so both of us have had to eliminate dairy from our diets. Any tips for foods that provide alternative sources of calcium? I'm also struggling to consume enough calories every day as there are so many things that I now can't eat.

Only Organic Nutritionist Kristen Beck Answers:

Hi Elizabeth, Cutting out a food group (especially dairy) can be an especially stressful time! In terms of calcium, there are several foods that are rich in calcium (almonds, spinach etc) but the reality is that calcium-enriched non dairy milks will form the bulk of your calcium intake.

With regard to caloric intake, you need to ensure that you are focusing on foods that are rich in healthy fats (e.g. avocado, fish, nuts and seeds (depending on any allergies)) to get that dietary intake back up. You probably also want to consider focusing on ensuring you are having routine snacks (e.g. healthy muesli bar, bananas, non-dairy smoothies etc) to keep your energy and nutrient intake up. I would also consider adding products such as LSA powder to your breakfast and snacks (linseed, sunflower and almond meal - available in supermarkets and health food stores) as another option (provided no allergies to these things).