You must be well informed about the different types and brands of infant formulas available in the market. We have compared the types and have mentioned a few good brands that are absolutely safe for babies. Read on...
Breastfeeding your newborn baby is indeed the most overwhelming experience for you. The nutrition that your baby derives from your breast milk cannot be equaled with anything else. But as your baby grows, his nutritional requirement also increases and depending only on breast milk is perhaps not a very wise idea.
It's due to this reason that you start feeding him infant formulas, that are designed specifically for the well-being of your baby. Infant formulas are approved by the FDA and they are enriched with multiple proteins, vitamins, minerals, lipids and amino acids. All these nutrients aid in proper growth and development of your baby.
The composition of infant formula depends upon the age and health status of your baby. They are labeled accordingly, and you should consult your doctor before feeding your baby.
They come basically in three different forms, viz, powdered, concentrated and ready-to-use.The most convenient option is ready-to-use formula as you need not dilute it with water before feeding.
You should know the quantity of the powder or the concentrate to be added with water in order to achieve the desired consistency. You have to also make sure that your baby likes the taste and enjoys drinking it.
Your baby might take some time to get used to the formula and during this period you should observe his/her health. We have divided the different categories of infant formula in the information provided here and shall help you choose the right one for your baby.
Infant Formula Types
Cow's Milk
The formula is derived from cow's milk and is processed to transform it into a concentrate or powder. The nutrients are balanced in adequate proportion, making it a wonderful substitute for breast milk. It's mild to your baby's stomach, since it contains easily digestible products.
Soy Based
Infants suffering from lactose intolerance or allergy to cow's milk can have soy formula on a regular basis. It is devoid of animal protein and it's a pure vegetarian diet. Stop giving your kid soy milk if he is allergic to it though.
Protein Hydrolysate
Also known as a hypoallergenic formula, this is suitable for your baby. Protein hydrolysates are safe for infants suffering from gastrointestinal problems and cow's milk allergy. It's rich in proteins and amino acids.
As already said, you must consult a pediatric before choosing a baby formula because the specifications provided in those numerous brands are bound to confuse you. We have compared the best brands in the next table and the reviews have also been provided along with that.
You can also look for Parent's Choice Soy Infant Formula (from Walmart) and Earth's Best Organic Soy Infant Formula. You can opt for organic formulas if your child is allergic to animal-derived products.
Infant Formula Brands
Enfamil
The product is strongly recommended by parents as it belongs to Mead Johnson. It contains choline, a vitamin that regulates function of muscle and cell membranes. The company manufactures a wide range of infant formulas that are suitable for babies having different nutritional requirements.
To name a few, they are, Enfamil PREMIUM, Enfamil ProSobee Lipil, Enfamil Premature, etc. The composition of each of these products differ according to the age, health status and requirements of babies.
Similac
Similac, was created by Alfred Bosworth and is manufactured by Abbott Laboratories, is equally popular among infants. The constituents present in Similac aid in development of the brain and vision and they also strengthen the immune system of babies.
You can purchase a product according to the requirement of your baby. Some variations are Similac Isomil Advance, Similac Expert Care, NeoSure, Similac Advance Organic, Similac Expert Care for Diarrhea, etc.
Nestle
Nestle Good Start is an excellent product, containing probiotic bacteria, which constitutes a healthy flora for your baby's digestive system. The key ingredients in Nestle's infant formula are lipids, mainly DHA and ARA and proteins, which are easily digestible.
We hope you have found the information provided here on infant formula comparison useful enough. Since the health of your baby matters the most to you, never compromise with the quality. Read the instructions mentioned on the pack carefully and then prepare the formula. Seeing your baby gulping from his bottle will be an enjoyable experience for you.