Breast milk is always the beat for the baby. It is natural, nutritious because all the requirements are present and in perfect proportion. Pediatricians recommend exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of the baby’s life.
However, not all mothers can breastfeed their babies for various reasons. If you find yourself having to decide on the best alternative, you’re not alone.
The journey to pick the best formula milk can be bewildering because of the choices available in the market. This primer will help you understand the alternatives available in the market. It will also help you choose the supplement that will be suitable for your infant.
Types of baby milk formula
The baby formula depends on your needs. You may have to consult with a pediatrician to understand your baby’s needs before you purchase. You can find milk supplements such as hipp baby formula from the food stores near you. Baby formulae vary depending on the ingredients added or removed to it. The most common baby milk supplement includes:
- Milk-based formula
This supplement uses cow’s milk as the primary ingredient. The milk-based formula is the most common option in the market. Its formula imitates breast milk. Then, it’s heated, treated to break down the protein content. Breaking down the protein blocks makes it easy for the infant’s tummy to digest the milk.
The fat content is removed and replaced with vegetable oils because they’re considered light and easily disintegrates without sacrificing the baby’s sensitive digestive system. Milk-based formulae are also fortified with iron to keep anemia at bay.
- Organic formula
This supplement is called organic because the cows providing the milk do not use any form of antibiotics, growth hormones, or pesticides. These factors boost the cow’s milk production and ensure it’s in its purest form.
Organic formula limits the ingestion of potentially harmful substances in the baby’s digestive system. And since the process of obtaining this milk is strenuous, you’ll pay more than regular milk-based formula.
- Soy-based
This supplement contains protein content from soy. The starch comes from sucrose or corn. Most babies have lactose intolerance, the reason why the substitution is sucrose.
If your baby has allergic reactions to cow’s milk, soy-based formula is the best option. It is also an ideal choice for families that prefer keeping off from animal-based products.
- Enhanced formulae
This baby milk supplement is enhanced with omega-3 fatty acids. Fish and eggs are rich in Omega-3. Omega-3 is an essential element in promoting critical thinking and bolstering vision.
There are also formulas enriched with probiotics and prebiotics. These additives promote the growth of gut-friendly bacteria.
- Specialized formula
Babies may have various health conditions that require specially formulated supplements. Pediatricians recommend a specialized formula for such infants to promote growth and provide target nutrients, for instance, pre-term babies or those with certain conditions or diseases
Specialized formulas must be recommended by a pediatrician. The baby must be fed according to the given instructions because specialized formula deviates from regular milk supplement.
Baby milk supplements comes in three forms namely
- Powder
- Ready-to feed
- Liquid concentrate
In a nutshell, choose a baby formula that suits your infant’s nutritional needs, budget, and personal preference.
