Baby Formula
It’s common knowledge that breast milk is the best nutrition for infants, but there are circumstances that make baby formula the best and sometimes the only choice. There are 3 different types of formula: Cow’s milk, soy based, and protein hydrolysate. Most formula is made of cow’s milk that has been altered to more resemble breast milk. Nutritionally, the right carbohydrates, protein and fats are added. It is also altered in a way that makes cow’s milk easier for baby to ingest. Regular milk that adults drink is not age appropriate, so stick to baby formula.
Soy based formulas have been available for several years now. They were first developed for infants that had allergies to the protein or lactose found in the cow milk formula, traditionally prescribed. There is also research supporting evidence that soy based is easier on babies who appear to have stomach aches more often than other babies. That is another very good reason to consider soy based formulas for the well being of your baby. Here again, be certain that you are using soy based formula and not soy milk that adults like to drink. Your choice of baby formula is a very important one.
Protein hydrolysate formula is a type of formula meant for babies whose allergies to milk have to be dealt with. Once a history is established then the doctor will consider making the switch. There are other more specialized formulas for premature infants and those that have special medical conditions. How do you determine if your baby is not doing well on the formula chosen? Watch for, and report to your doctor if your baby experiences diarrhea, persistent vomiting, fatigue or weakness, dry skin, and gas. A change in baby formula may be needed.
There are 3 ways you can prepare the formula. It will depend on your lifestyle and, in reality, your budget. Powdered formula is the least expensive. The container comes with a scoop to measure the powder formula and add to water. Most doctors recommend buying distilled water to use with the formula. You can also use a concentrate liquid formula that you will, again, mix with water. Some parents prefer this, feeling it’s less messy, and the right amount of formula is already mixed. Ready to use formula is not mixed with water and, perhaps, the easiest baby formula of all.
You also have the choice between generic formulas and brand name formulas. Of course, there is the price difference. The brand name does not make the formula better. All formula must meet government standards, regardless if it’s generic or brand name. The recipes may vary but the nutrients must meet FDA requirements. The AAP does recommend an iron fortified formula for all babies, if they can tolerate it.
Preparing the formula is simple. First, start with clean hands and utensils. Whatever type you are using, make your measurements precise. The baby formula needs to be exact for the baby’s wellbeing. And, that, after all, is what is most important.
