Baby Formula

The Babble Staff

While all pediatricians agree that breastfeeding is the ideal method of nourishing a child, a formula baby can still be well-fed and healthy. All U.S. baby formulas are strictly regulated by the FDA and should contain all the nutrients necessary for an infant to thrive. Pediatricians say there are no general answers to what formula is best; it depends on the individual needs of each baby. Ready-to-use formulas are handy for obvious reasons, though concentrate liquid formulas tend to be cheaper and powdered formulas keep longer. As for iron-enrichment, the AAP recommends iron-fortified formulas over low-iron formulas, they also say there are no medical indications that iron causes problems like colic and constipation, hence low-iron formulas should not be used to treat them. Yet another choice is between soy- and milk-based formulas. Stomach problems may be due to lactose intolerance in which case soy-based formulas are preferable to milk-based formulas though experts say stomach trouble is also likely to be an allergy to certain proteins in which case soy might be equally problematic. Don't despair, there is guidance to be had as many websites write extensively on the topic.

"If you have decided to formula-feed your baby, the last thing to be concerned about is brand name. In the United States, all baby formula manufacturers must adhere to very strict provisions set forth in the Infant Formula Act of 1980." ...read the full article

"We can't say enough about the health benefits of breastfeeding. That said, formula-feeding with a bottle is a valid, healthy choice for babies, too — either right from the start or after a period of nursing. If you're concerned about your choice, try to separate the medical facts from the political and cultural rhetoric."...read the full article

"Of course each brand of formula markets the reasons that their 'recipe' is the best, but there is no official head to head study that shows that one brand is much better for your baby than another. Even the American Academy of Pediatrics has never taken a real stand and made any kind of recommendation about formula feeding, except to say that breastfeeding is preferred over formula and that you shouldn't use a low iron infant formula."...read the full article

"Infant formula is safe to use, but that's not fail proof. Compared to other food products, infant formulas are more highly regulated than most. [...] Even though infant formula is regulated and controlled, it is still important to emphasize that breastfeeding remains the safest method of feeding your baby."...read the full article

"Although breast milk is the best source of nutrition for your baby, you shouldn't feel bad if you are unable or choose not to breastfeed. Baby formulas are specially made to meet babies' nutritional needs. Even some women who breastfeed may at one time or another use formula to supplement their breast milk. If you plan to use formula, here are some pointers."...read the full article