Breastmilk is the best for babies. The American Academy of Pediatrics emphasizes to importance and benefits of breastmilk, which contains a unique set of nutrients and good bacteria that are all important for your child’s gut health that is yet to be replicated by even the most expensive baby formula in the market. However, some women cannot breastfeed their infants for different reasons. Science has since addressed this problem. Today, there is no shortage of powdered formula options. Top formulas for newborns can ensure that infants still get the adequate nourishment they need (read more about it here).
However, with so many infant formulas marketed as the “ideal” milk, and so many brands claiming they have the line of products, choosing the milk for your infants can be overwhelming. So, how do you make sure you get right milk for your baby? Here is everything you need to know about baby formulas.
Finding the Right Milk For Your Baby
First off, it is important to note that there is no single best formula for all babies, as different babies react to different formulas differently. This includes even those baby formulas for constipation, which may work well for some babies but cause discomfort and intolerance in others. Others may react better to certain types and brands, while some may experience discomfort and intolerance. Others may react better to certain types and brands, while others may experience discomfort and intolerance.
There are various infant formulas sold on the market, including European formulas, but the only formula milk you should try are the ones accredited or prescribed by experts, as not all formulas can be good for your happy baby. Likewise, there a formula milk to help babies gain weight. As they grow, you can ask your doctor about vitamins for kids to gain weight. If your baby is having discomfort because of the build-up of gas in his body, you may try the baby formula for gas. Also, note that since the pandemic started, a significant formula shortage has been observed. These shortages can be attributed to supply issues and recall because of potential contamination.


Understanding The Different Types Of Newborn Formulas
With that said, while there are countless brands, products, and many different variants in the market, it is important to know that there are only a few different types of infant formulas out there, and they all differ from the base material of the milk and their intended use.
Many formulas are designed to be hypoallergenic, and some contain proteins that are hydrolyzed to ease digestion.
Cow’s Milk Based Formula
Cow’s milk baby formula, obviously, are derived from the milk of the cow. They have been altered to resemble breastmilk as close as possible. Cow’s milk protein are broken down and modified to make them easier for babies to digest. Plus, they are also iron fortified formula to address to iron needs of the infant. This type is most common in the United States.
For most babies, most formulas based on cow’s milk formulas are sufficient for their needs (read more about it here: https://www.babylist.com/hello-baby/best-baby-formula).
Some babies, due to taste, religious, or cultural preferences, are also given formulas based on goat’s milk or soy milk.
Soy-Based Formula
Derived from soy protein, soy formulas are a great alternative to cow’s milk for babies who are lactose intolerant or have any allergic reaction to cow’s milk protein. However, it is important to note that some babies may be allergic to soy formula as well. Thus, it is important to consult with your pediatrician before switching.
Specialized Formulas
Specialty baby formulas, simply known as specialized formula, is specifically designed to give babies certain nutrients or assist specific feeding or health issues. They are recommended by the pediatrician for babies with food allergies, sensitivities, gastrointestinal problems, malabsorption, etc. Some examples of speciality formulas include:
Extensively Hydrolyzed Formula
The Extensively hydrolyzed baby formula is specifically designed for babies with protein allergies to cow’s milk. The milk proteins in this formula are broken into even smaller pieces to make the milk easier to digest and absorb.
Human Milk Oligosaccharide (HMO)
This milk comes with complex sugars that are found in breastmilk. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) considered this formula to be beneficial for gut health, which is vital for the baby’s immune system development.
Hypoallergenic Formula
As its name suggests, this is a gentle formula designed for babies with severe allergies to cow’s milk protein. It is generally made up of amino acids, the building blocks of proteins. Thus, they are easy to digest as well.
Finally, all baby formulas contain added ingredients to closely mimic breast milk for its nutritional profile. Aside from the ones made in the US, there are also European formulas, which some consumers prefer. European baby formula follows European regulations when it comes to ingredients to include in their formula. Thus, European formulas are known to contain certified organic milk and natural components. Also, European formulas are non-GMO. Also, European formulas are non-GMO. One of them could be the recommended formula for colic babies.


Despite the many types of baby formula or varieties, not all baby formulas are recommended for infants, who still have relatively immature digestive and immune systems. As proper nutrition is critical for the first few months of life outside the womb, first-stage formulas are preferred for infants. These formulas contain low levels of casein, the protein in milk that comes out during curdling. Lowering levels of this protein help prevent dangerous interactions with infants’ sensitive stomachs. First-stage formulas also have nutrient levels that more closely mimic those found in breast milk to support mental health, proper growth, and brain and eye development.
Get The Best Formula For Your Newborn: What Experts Recommend
One of the most popular baby formula brands is Enfamil EnfaCare Infant Formula, which has a higher nutritional value than other regular baby formulas. It also has significant amounts of DHA and ARA, which are omega-3 fatty acids that play a role in maintaining brain and eye health. These two nutrients are useful for infants, whose nervous systems are still developing at a rapid pace.


Another popular choice is Similac Neosure Infant Formula, which also has a higher amount of vitamins including vitamin D, minerals, and other nutrients compared to different formulas. This formula for baby sold on the market specializes in delivering Vitamin E, which has antioxidant and protective properties, and lutein, which helps in eye health. Like Enfamil EnfaCare, this product also has high levels of DHA and ARA.
Organic Baby Formula
Besides conventional baby formula, Earth’s Organic baby formula is also recommended by pediatricians for certain babies. This product is derived from milk products that do not contain artificial growth hormones or antibiotics and is exclusively made of organic ingredients.
If you are comparing non-gmo formula and regular formula, it is worth noting that regardless of its type, most brands in the market provide the same essential nutrients for babies, including DHA, ARA, HMO, and lutein, for brain, immune, gut, and vision health. What makes organic formulas a standout is how it is, well, purely organic and hence devoid of artificial ingredients that may lead to allergy symptoms among babies with a sensitive stomach.
There are also kinds of organic formulas that parents have a variety to choose from, including the organic baby formula which is often milk based. A milk based formula is made from cow’s milk but modified to more closely mimic human milk and its benefits for infant nutrition (Kirkland Signature Pro is a premium formula at a great price without sacrificing its quality; because of this, Kirkland Signature Pro is the preferred milk-based formula products by some consumers); partially hydrolyzed formula, which contains milk proteins partly broken down to aid babies experiencing colic and gas issues (Enfamil, Gerber, Happy Baby organic formula, and Similac formula are top choices for this type); soy based formula, which is made from soy protein and is used in substitute of milk-based formula organic baby formulas (Enfamil ProSobee, Similac Soy Isomil, Gerber Good Start Soy). The American Academy of Pediatrics does not fully recommend this type of organic formula or soy-based formulas as a top or primary choice for parents, so it is always important to consult with your baby’s pediatrician first.
If you’re a parent who has a thing for organic food consumption, and if you don’t mind spending a few more bucks as organic formulas are slightly less cheap, consider the Earth’s Best Organic Formula, which is among the most affordable and popular organic one formula brands that are widely available on the market. Just as well-received is their Organic Dairy Infant Formula with Iron. This brand contains DHA and ARA, prebiotics, and lutein, all essential for gut, intellectual, and visual development.
Formula Options For Babies With Milk Protein Allergies
Babies with allergies to milk proteins can develop complications when fed with certain types and brands of baby formulas. A milk protein is found on cow’s milk, so if your baby has a milk protein allergy, it is extremely important to look for sensitive baby formula. These formulas are specific for babies with sensitive tummies.
A partially hydrolyzed whey protein formula is also highly recommended for the prevention of milk protein allergies, as well as opting for a hypoallergenic formula or a hydrolyzed formula, which are effective against milk protein intolerance. Despite containing cow’s milk, responsible for the milk protein allergy itself, a partially hydrolyzed whey protein means it has been broken down to prevent the development of milk protein allergic reactions.
Milk Options For Premature Babies
Premature babies need specialized care, as they would need a higher amount of nutrients than term infants because of their condition. There are also a number of baby formulas to avoid, such as those that contain corn syrup solids, which are not ideal as they are made from genetically modified corn. Baby formulas need a source of sugar or carbohydrate. Lactose is that source for breastmilk and cow’s milk, but for other infant formulas, they use corn syrup or corn syrup solids. Corn syrup solids are generally safe, according to FDA. Also, corn syrup is preferred by some because it’s a carbohydrate that most babies can digest. Plus, corn syrup is cheaper.
Having said that, besides human milk or breastmilk, a ready to feed the top formula for newborn babies is a great alternative, which is reasonably costly but outweighs the financial expense for the benefits it could offer for faster recovery and development, which is also a good indication that you know how to care for a newborn baby.
The Takeaway
As mentioned earlier, human milk is still the ideal food for infants and other babies. Scientists have yet to identify, let alone synthesize the multiple biological and chemical components of breastmilk. Even the top formulas for newborns will still not come close to breastmilk. And with the formula shortage since the Covid-19 outbreak, mothers may have to try to breastfeed their babies, if they can.
The usefulness of baby formulas is that it provides convenience, making it easier to feed your baby. Governments and other authorities impose strict guidelines on the composition of top formula for newborns. Hence, they should still be able to meet the baby’s nutritional needs of your baby adequately. Besides, almost any baby formula that passes regulations is safe to use.


As with any significant nutritional intervention, it is advised to consult with a medical professional first before using any baby formula. If you observe any signs of an adverse reaction, such as breathing difficulties or red, puffy skin, seek medical intervention immediately. You might be prescribed hypoallergenic formulas to prevent future allergic reactions. Whichever hypoallergenic baby formula brands you choose, make sure to follow these guidelines. You will maximize the benefit you and your baby can get from the formula for newborns.
Frequently Asked Questions
Last Updated on May 14, 2023 by Bry Roquero
DISCLAIMER (IMPORTANT): This information (including all text, images, audio, or other formats on FamilyHype.com) is not intended to be a substitute for informed professional advice, diagnosis, endorsement or treatment. You should not take any action or avoid taking action without consulting a qualified professional. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions about medical conditions. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking advice or treatment because of something you have read here a FamilyHype.com.