Journal Entry

The best formula for your baby

One of the most personal decisions a woman must make with her impending motherhood is whether or not to breastfeed her baby. While breast feeding is proven to be the healthiest option, using baby formula is a safe alternative for women who lack the physical capability or time necessary to breast feed. Knowing the healthiest options of baby formula ensures that their child receives adequate nutrients.

Formulas generally come in three types: cow’s milk, soy-based, and protein hydrolysate. Cow’s milk, like Nestle Good Start Supreme, is a lactose-based version of formula that is most commonly iron-fortified and is made with the correct amount of carbohydrates and a balanced proportion of fat and protein to most closely resemble breast milk. A lactose-free alternative is a soy-based baby formula. Enfamil ProSobee and Similac Isomil are two types of soy formulas that are especially effective for babies who do not react well to lactose or milk proteins. Another lactose-free version is the protein hydrosolate formula, like Progestamil, which is made for babies who have protein allergies and problems digesting. These types of baby formula are made with a pre-digested protein, meaning the proteins are already broken down to mimic digestion, making the process easier for babies.

After determining which type of formula is best for your baby, you must decide which way you would like to prepare it. You have a few options: powdered, concentrated, or ready-to-use. Powdered and concentrated liquid formulas must be mixed with water before feeding, and are generally more economical. Ready-to-use formulas do not have to be mixed, but are usually more expensive than powdered and concentrated versions.

Enhanced and fortified versions of baby formulas have become popular due to the added dietary benefits they provide. DHA and AHA nutrients are Omega-3 fatty acids that are found in natural breast milk. Some studies have shown that enhancing formula with these nutrients makes it most closely simulate breast milk. Iron-fortified baby formulas are significant in that they provide the iron that would normally be present in natural breast milk, ensuring that babies receive at least the minimum recommended amount of iron to supplement what they are not receiving from breast milk. Babies should not drink low-iron formula because it does not provide an adequate level of nutrition for a growing infant.

Aside from possible variations in taste, there are no significant differences between name-brand and generic brands of baby formula. While recipes may differ, every formula is FDA approved and contains all of the required nutrients for a baby.

There are several physical factors that a baby may show that can identify a problem with the type of formula they are being fed. Below are some common problems and solutions:

• Reflux : Adding a rice supplement, like Enfamil AR, will thicken the formula, making it easier for the baby to digest and minimizing the risk for reflux.
• Constipation : Constipation or dry stools may be cured by using a soy-based formula. More-frequent intake of fluids and massaging the stomach are also ways of alleviating constipation.
• Colic : If a baby gets colicky after feedings, he or she may have an allergy. If changing formulas does not work, consult your pediatrician.
• Diarrhea : switching to a lactose-free formula may temporarily help to reduce diarrhea in babies.
• Vomiting : Consistent vomiting is often a sign of a protein allergy. Using a hydrosolate formula may solve this problem.

It is always important to consult with your pediatrician regarding feeding problems. If changing formulas does not provide a solution, then an intestinal infection or other health issue may be the problem.