There are so many benefits associated with breastfeeding, and it is the most recommended feeding practice for newborn babies But sometimes that might not work for you, so you’ve got to look for alternative nutrition in the form of formula. .
Sometimes mothers combine breastfeeding with formula when they are unable to produce the right amount of milk for their babies. Other times, you might not be able to produce the milk you need.
So, infant formula is a great option for anyone who is not going to breastfeed, and it is heavily regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It has to meet the basic nutritional requirements for a newborn.
Types of Formula
There are currently 3 main types of baby formula.
Cow’s Milk Formula
This formula has been treated to make the protein from the cow’s milk easy to digest. It is the most prevalent type of formula in the market today.
Soy Formula
This one is the vegan option and is usually recommended by doctors in very rare situations, such as when the baby has become allergic to the protein in cow’s milk.
Specialized Formula
This particular one is used to provide sustenance to kids who have special nutrition needs, e.g. premature babies, or babies who have a high risk of developing allergies.
Now, in addition to the different types. The formula also comes in 3 different forms as follows.
Powder form – which you have to mix with water.
Liquid concentrate – which you should also mix with some water.
Ready-to-feed bottles – these do not require you to mix with anything.
The Best Formula Brands To Try
Similac Pro-Advance Non-GMO Infant Formula With Iron
There is so much to think about when choosing the right baby formula for your baby, and this particular product will help cover all the bases.
Similac’s formula is made with an ingredient called 2*FL Human Milk Oligosaccharide (HMO), which is an immune-system nourishing prebiotic that is similar to what you find in breastmilk.
The HMO is important as it feeds the good bacteria in the gut of the baby, where most of the immune system resides.
There are plenty of other nutrients in the milk that are used to support the baby’s brain development, cell formation, and eye health.
Keep in mind that this is the number one brand recommended by hospitals, which means that there is every good chance that you are using the right kind from the first day.
Earth’s Best Earth’s Infant Formula
This should certainly appear on your list of best baby formulas as it is made of organic ingredients. These are important for parents who wish to feed their babies organic products. It is a certified USDA Organic and non-GMO.
This one is designed to be just like breast milk, and also contains very high quantities of carbohydrates, protein, minerals, vitamins, and the essential fatty acids, without any added corn syrup solids at all.
Keep in mind that this is designed for sensitive tummies and has a plant-based soy formula and a reduced lactose formula.
NeuroPro Gentlease Baby Formula
The NeuroPro Gentlease Baby Formula is backed with many years of research on breast milk. These clinical studies are around brain-building nutritional qualities. Its formula is the only one that contains milk fat globule membrane or MFGM.
MFGM is a 3-layered membrane that was previously found in breast milk only and one that has been proven to help support brain development. The NeuroPro also contains DHA proteins and other baby probiotics for good immune support.
Parents love the gentleness of the formula as it helps in reducing colic, fussiness, and gas in babies.
Conclusion
There have been major advances made in the creation of baby formula, so if for whatever reason you cannot give your baby breast milk, you can rest assured you are still giving your baby the nutrients required with a good quality formula.Â