How To Identify The Best Formula For Newborns

We all want the best for our babies. But how do you go about choosing the best formula for your newborn? There are so many different forms that formula comes in, and how do you know which is the best type? Not to mention, how can you figure out which ingredients will agree with your baby.

As you stand in the aisle in the store, the huge volume of choices can cause you to want to run out screaming. Okay, maybe not quite screaming, but it can feel overwhelming with all the different choices you have had to make since the arrival of your baby.

Continue reading for helpful information about the best formula for newborns, so that you can make an informed choice.

The Different Types Of Formula

Here you have to choose from cow’s milk formula, hydrolysed, soy-based and lactose-free formulas.

Cow’s milk-based formula has just the right balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fat as the protein in the formula is altered to make it easier for your baby to digest.

Hydrolysed formulas are usually used for premature babies because the protein in this type of formula is broken down into small particles to help the baby absorb the nutrients. This formula may also be helpful for babies with eczema.

For all the vegan families out there, soy-based formula is the one for you because it is made with plant protein. This formula will also be used if the baby has transient lactose deficiency, an allergy to cow’s milk or galactosemia, where the body is unable to break down a milk sugar to produce energy.

The lactose-free formula is given to babies that are lactose intolerant, which is the inability of the body to digest lactose. Your doctor will be able to diagnose and assist you in this regard.

The Different Forms Of Formula

The different forms that formula come in are ready-to-use, liquid concentrate or powdered formula.

The benefit of a ready-to-use formula is the convenience factor. Simply open and serve. Also, this is a great choice if you are unsure of the quality of your water. But on the other hand, it is about 20 per cent more expensive than the other types of formula and, because of the containers it is sold in, it’s not good for the landfill as it takes up more space.

The liquid concentrate formula benefits are that it costs less than the ready-to-use formula. You’ll have more space in your cupboard because you’ll need less formula as you mix it with equal parts of water and formula.

If you need the most economical and the most landfill friendly formula, then powdered formula is the one for you. It has a one-month shelf life once the container is opened. This formula has to be prepared exactly as directed and takes more time to prepare than the liquid and ready-to-use formula, but you can mix up the exact amount that you need. This is great for breastfeeding moms that only need an occasional bottle for their youngster.

The Five Main Components To Look For

When choosing a formula, look out for protein, fat, carbohydrate, vitamins, and minerals, on the ingredients label.

The protein content should be about 40 per cent casein and 60 per cent whey. The fat content in the formula is made up of different oils which include coconut oil, palm and soy oil. In both breast milk and formulas, lactose is the main carbohydrate. The vitamins content should contain iron (called ferrous sulphate), Vitamin C (called sodium ascorbate) and Vitamin B5 (called calcium pantothenate).

You Can Ask For Help

In the end, choose the one that is best for your baby and your family’s lifestyle. You will make the best choice for your baby because you know that little person better than anyone else can. But if you feel that you are not sure, ask your doctor which he/she recommends. You don’t have to make all the choices yourself.