Choosing an infant formula for your baby is difficult these days, what with the emergence of numerous formulas in the market. However, all the formulas are healthy and safe for the baby as all have been released in the market only after thorough scrutiny by the FDA and the American Academy of Pediatrics Committee on Nutrition. So, in choosing an infant formula, you need to be worried only about the type of formula you buy and not the brand of the product. All brands meet at least the minimum requirements/standards of the FDA and are sound food products for infants.
How are infant formulas made? Infant Formulas are prepared according to FDA regulations and based on the recommendations made by the American Academy of Pediatrics Committee on Nutrition. Hence all infant formulas in the market are nutritionally complete and safe for your baby. Though the American Academy of Pediatrics Committee does not recommend any particular brand or formula, it says that low-iron formulas are not good for a baby’s growth and hence, should be avoided at all costs.
Infant formulas generally vary based on the sugars and proteins they contain. There are various kinds of infant formulas in the market like – Cow milk based formulas, Soy based formulas, Regular iron fortified formulas, Elemental formulas, Follow-up formulas, Formulas with DHA and ARA (like in breast milk) etc.
How to choose the right infant formula? You have decided that your baby is not to have breast milk because it is lactose intolerant or due to other problems. So, you look for an infant formula that is highly nutritional for your baby. How do you choose from the available formulas? Before you choose any one formula, you need to know the basics of formulas. Different formulas exist for different requirements and only a thorough understanding of them can help you freeze on a particular formula.
1. Iron-fortified formulas: Regular iron-fortified formulas are made with lactose and cow’s milk proteins. If your baby is lactose intolerant, buy iron-fortified formulas that have only low lactose content. But never opt for low-iron formulas
2. Soy formulas: Ideal for lactose intolerant children but not advisable for babies who do not take breast milk. Soy formulas lack in the lactose required for a baby’s bones and growth. However, they are good for all babies which are both lactose intolerant or have milk protein allergy.
3. Elemental formulas: These are lactose free formulas made with hydrolysate proteins and are ideal for children with lactose intolerance and protein allergies. They are easy to digest than milk proteins and hence, are good for babies with IBS or other gastrointestinal problems too.
4. DHA or ARA formulas: These are formulas supplemented with DHA and ARA found in breast milk. If you want your baby to get the nutrients in breast milk, you can opt for these. There are lactose-free and soy variants too. These are good choices if your baby is not breastfeeding.
5. Follow-up formulas: For babies beyond 4 to 6 months of age. These babies will get adequate nutrients from the solid foods they take. If they are not breastfeeding or lack in nutrition, you can consult with your doctor and try these follow up formulas.
6. Lactose free formulas: There are exclusively lactose free formulas too. However, most of these formulas are not milk-protein free and hence will not be suitable for babies with milk allergies.
7. Powdered, Concentrate or Ready-to-Feed: Though Ready-To-Feed formulas can be used as they are, powdered formulas are the best as they are cheap and can also be stored for a longer period.
