Infant & Baby Formulas
Baby formulas are a healthy choice when needing an alternative to breast milk or when mom wants to do a combination of both. Whether it is by choice or due to a medical reason, there are infant formulas that mimic breast milk to help babies grow and develop. The majority of baby formulas on the market are cow's milk-based with probiotics and easier-to-digest proteins. These advancements help digestion and increase intestinal comfort to reduce gas. The majority are also fortified with iron and vitamin D to protect against rickets and anemia. There is not a one-size-fits-all approach to infant formula and toddler formula. There are many options to meet the dietary needs of the child. Always consult with a pediatrician before starting a specialized formula.
Specialized infant formulas provide options when the baby is allergic to ingredients or is unable to digest proteins. Soy-based formulas are plant-based options and offer a choice when the baby exhibits a sensitivity or an allergy to cow's milk and shows signs of acid reflux or colic. Below are specialized formula options from trusted brands such as Gerber, Similac, and Enfamil to ensure babies get the nutritional needs to grow and thrive.
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HCY 1 Infant to Toddler Medical Food for Homocystinuria
Mead JohnsonStarting at: $59.51
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Similac Special Care® 30 Premature Infant Formula - Iron & OptiGRO
SimilacStarting at: $3.11
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Propimex Amino Acid-Modified Infant Formula With Iron
Abbott NutritionStarting at: $64.88
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Cyclinex 1 Amino Acid-Modified Infant Formula With Iron
Abbott NutritionStarting at: $24.69
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Glutarex Amino Acid-Modified Infant Formula With Iron
Abbott NutritionStarting at: $49.14
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Specialized Baby Formula Options
Cow’s Milk With Easy-to-Digest Proteins
Fussy babies may be experiencing gas and discomfort from the milk protein in the formula. Digesting cow's milk is now easier with a cow's milk formula containing partially hydrolyzed whey protein vs. intact protein. Prebiotics are similar to probiotics and introduce good bacteria to the baby's gut to promote digestive health.
Example:
- Similac Total Comfort, 62599, features gentle protein and prebiotics for delicate tummies.
Soy or Elemental Formula for Cow’s Milk Allergy - Galactosemia
Soy protein is a source of protein that is preferred in the vegetarian diet and therefore may be the desired source in infant formula. Soy may be the option when a non-dairy baby formula is required for infants with galactosemia, a hereditary condition that prevents the body from metabolizing lactose found in milk.
Example:
- Enfamil ProSobee Soy Infant Formula, 121460, features plant-sourced protein to create a milk-free and lactose-free formula. This option is necessary for infants with a milk protein allergy.
Waste Nitrogen Disorders
Infants to adults with Urea Cycle Disorders drink this medical food powder to remove excess nitrogen and waste products from the body. Babies need this formula since their liver lacks the enzymes to turn waste nitrogen into urea to naturally remove it in the urine. It can be fatal if toxins build up in the blood.
Example:
- WND Non-Essential Amino Acid-Free Powder, 892001, features an iron-fortified powder with only the essential amino acids to support children and adults with waste nitrogen disorder.
Low-Calcium Formula
When an infant has hypercalcemia, the parathyroid gland is overactive creating above-normal calcium levels in the blood. The diet will require a formula that is low in calcium.
Example:
- Calcilo XD Low Calcium Infant Formula, 53328, features a nutritionally complete formula that's low in calcium and vitamin D.
Certified Organic
Organic baby formula certifies the ingredients are free of hormones, chemicals, and pesticides.
Example:
- Baby's Only Organic Toddler Formula, 1093210 and 0748442, features organic lactose-free and milk-based infant and toddler formula options.
Amino Acid Modified
Infants with rare conditions such as homocystinuria make the digestive system unable to break down certain amino acids. Amino-Acid modified formulas are void of methionine enzymes to make the formula digestible.
Example:
- HCY 1 Infant Formula, 893301, is methionine-free with increased choline for brain development.
Premature or Low Birth Weight
This new born formula is specifically for low birth weight babies or premature babies. The formula has higher calories, protein, vitamins, and minerals to promote growth.
Example:
- Enfamil Premature Formula with Low Iron and High Protein, features a formula with 24 calories to promote growth for premature babies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why are most infant formulas fortified with iron?
Fortifying an infant formula reduces the risk of anemia to support the cells as the infant grows.
What formula is best for acid reflux?
A cow's milk-based formula with hydrolyzed protein is broken down easier to reduce acid reflux and gas.
Can breastmilk and formula be mixed together?It is not recommended to mix breastmilk and formula. Always mix formula per the instructions listed. It is recommended to supplement breastfeeding with formula but not mix the two.
How long can prepared formula be used before it is discarded?
Preparred formula that has been properly stored and is unused after 48 hours should be discarded.
What happens if too much water is added to infant formula?Premature or low birth weight babies require calories. Adding too much water will reduce the calories needed for growth.
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What to Look for When Choosing Baby Formula
