Meta Description: Struggling to decide which baby formula is suitable for your little one? Get to know how to pick the ideal baby formula that pairs well with normal food.
As a parent, it is crucial to ensure the proper nutrition of your child. During a quick stroll through the baby aisle at your local grocery store, you will stumble upon a wide variety of baby formulas. It can be quite confusing and overwhelming to choose the right formula that is also suitable for normal foods.
So how do you choose the right baby formula? It is quite simple when you keep a few fundamental basics in mind. This article will discuss useful tips and insights that will help you select the perfect baby formula for your little one.
Know What Your Child Is Allergic to
It is better to be safe than sorry. Consult with your pediatrician and know what your child might be allergic to. After running the necessary tests, you will get to know what food and substances can cause an allergic reaction.
A significant number of babies are found to be allergic to the protein that is present in cow’s milk. Many infants are found to be lactose intolerant and hence cannot ingest any dairy products without any digestive issues. If your child is intolerant to lactose, then you have to feed them dairy alternatives like soy milk.
Some babies do not have sufficient enzymes to digest the lactose in bovine milk and hence, their bodies are intolerant to lactose. As mentioned earlier, it is wise to consider your child’s allergies and suitability. If your baby is lactose intolerant, then stay away from this formula and opt for an alternative type.
If you decided to use cow-based formula, consider using one of the highest quality. Kendamil formula is a premium infant formula made from the highest quality organic ingredients. This formula provides all the essential nutrients needed for your baby's development, including proteins, carbohydrates, and fats. With Kendamil Classic formula, you can be confident that your baby is getting everything they need to thrive.
Know the Types of Infant Formula
Besides being an alternative for breast milk, it can also be supplementary. You can do a combined feeding of infant formula and breastfeeding. For toddlers, you can also feed them proper solid foods along with baby formula.
Based on their requirements and allergens, you need to opt for the ideal type of baby formula. There are mainly three types of baby formulas: cow’s milk-based formula, soy formula, and hydrolyzed formula.
Cow’s Milk-Based Formula
This is the most common type of infant formula and is available in most stores. Cow’s milk is modified to be consumed safely by babies so that they can easily digest it. However, you need to keep in mind that some infants are allergic to the protein present in cow milk.
Some babies do not have sufficient enzymes to digest the lactose in bovine milk and hence, their bodies are intolerant to lactose. As mentioned earlier, it is wise to consider your child’s allergies and suitability. If your baby is lactose intolerant, then stay away from this formula and opt for an alternative type.
Soy Formula
This formula is made from soy milk. Soy milk is completely plant-based and does not contain any lactose. Besides the soy protein, this milk is also prepared with vegetable oils, corn syrup, and sucrose. The sucrose and corn syrup make up for the necessary carbohydrates. The vegetable oils make up the adequate fat content.
Little ones who suffer from lactose intolerance can consume soy milk formula as an alternative. Babies who are allergic to bovine protein can also ingest this type of formula. You can also feed this to your baby if you want to opt-out of animal products in his/her diet.
However, this formulated milk is not recommended for babies who have low birth weight or are born prematurely. You also need to consider cross-reactivity between soy-based and milk-based formulas. If your child is severely allergic to milk-based formulas then you have to be very mindful of the allergens and the reactivity.
Hydrolyzed Formula
The protein in this formula has already been hydrolyzed or broken down into smaller proteins. This prior breakdown makes it easier to digest the formula. Hydrolyzed formulas are developed for babies who are allergic to proteins or can not tolerate both soy and cow milk.
This type of formula is praised for being easy on the digestive system of infants. These predigested formulas are available either exclusively or partially hydrolyzed.
Specialized Formula
This specialty is developed for infants with certain medical conditions or preterm babies. This type of formula comprises a range of products based on the suitability of the special needs.
For instance, specialized formulas with low sodium content are for infants who require a limited salt intake. Special formulas thickened with rice starch are developed for babies who struggle with reflux. Some infants have predisposed medical issues that prevent their bodies from processing certain fats or proteins.
Forms of Baby Formula
To ensure that the infants are getting the right nutrition, FDA regulates the commercially prepared infant formulas. Baby formulas are available in three forms: powder, liquid concentrates, and ready-to-use formulas.
Powder formulas are the most available and affordable option. This formula needs to be mixed with warm water. It usually requires two ounces of water for each scoop.
Liquid concentrates cost higher than powder forms. They also require mixing with water. These concentrated formulas are generally diluted with equal parts of water.
Ready-to-use infant formulas are also known as ready-to-feed formulas. They are already mixed and do not require the addition of water. This formula is very convenient as it can be poured directly into the baby bottle and can be instantly fed to the infant.
This convenience comes at an incredibly high price. Ready-to-use baby formulas are the most expensive formulated milk available.
Other Healthy Components of Formula
There are numerous vitamins and minerals present in infant formulas that are vital for healthy growth and development. Iron is one of these essential minerals that boost immunity, improve bone strength, and enhance brain development.
Calcium, iodine, and phosphates are also vital minerals that ensure overall health. Iodine regulates the thyroid gland and wards off diseases like goiter. Baby formulas are also enriched with ARA and DHA omega fatty acids.
These nutrients are extracted from algae and are incredibly beneficial for the baby in numerous ways. The fatty acids improve eye strength, hence ensuring better vision. They also ensure healthy nerve and brain development.
Some formulas are also enriched with probiotics. Probiotics are good bacteria that live naturally in the gut. They are also present in yogurt and other various fermented foods
. To improve gut health and maintain healthy digestion, some parents opt for probiotic enriched infant formula.
Other types of formulas have prebiotics that also ensure a healthy gut and digestion. Prebiotics are carbohydrates that help the friendly bacteria that stay and grow in your little one’s gut.
Deciding the Ideal Formula for Your Child
With so many varieties and options, it can be quite confusing and overwhelming to figure out which formula will be the best for your baby. After knowing the different types of the formula, consult with your child’s pediatrician for recommendations and what features to look for. The doctor knows the calorie and other nutrient requirements of your child.
Some clinics also provide samples of baby formula that can be obtained via coupons or are simply offered for free. You can try some of these samples and have an idea of what formula is suitable for your baby. Regardless of what formula you start with, it is best to go for FDA-approved formulas.
The strict regulations and guidelines of the FDA ensure that your little one will get the ideal nutrition in safe conditions. Before purchasing the infant formula, make sure to check the expiration dates. You should also assess the packaging and ensure that it is intact. Do not use any formulas that have compromised packaging. Avoid buying any damaged bottles and tins of baby formula.
Signs to Look Out for
Sometimes the formula might need to be changed after a period of feeding. The need for switching formulas arises when there is a sudden change of reaction. Instances like food allergies, special requirements, severe fussiness, or detrimental change in digestion call for a change in formula.
There can also be other symptoms that are not related to the type of formula. If you notice any signs and concerning symptoms, consult your child’s doctor immediately. Before switching to a new formula, always consult with your pediatrician first.
Call your little one’s doctor as soon as you notice one or more of the following symptoms:
Diarrhea
Dry, red, and scaly skin
Severe weakness or fatigue
Forced vomiting
Final Words
Nutrition is key for the growth and optimum health of babies. Proper nutrition ensures great health and immunity. Strong body immunity from healthy nutrition also prevents illnesses like the common cold and flu.
Different babies have different requirements and conditions. Upon consulting with the doctor and your convenience, decide on the ideal type of formula for your little one. Keep an eye out for any concerning issues and symptoms so that you can take the proper action instantly.
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