What's The Best For Your Baby? Experts Pick The Best Formula For Newborns

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 newborn for different reasons. Science has since addressed this problem. Today, there is no shortage of powdered milk options. Top formulas for newborns can ensure that newborn still get the adequate nourishment they need (read more about it here).

However, with so many options marketed as “perfect” formula and so many brands claiming they have the line of products, choosing the milk for your newborn can be overwhelming. So, how do you make sure you get the right milk? Here is everything you need to know about baby formulas.

Finding The Right Formula For Your Newborn Baby

First off, it is important to note that there is no single best milk for all babies, as different babies react to different kinds of milk 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 newborn kinds of milk sold on the market, including European formulas, but the only milk you should try are the ones accredited or prescribed by experts, as not all milk can be the best for your baby. Likewise, there a milk to help babies gain weight. As they grow, you can ask your doctor about kid’s vitamins for weight gain. 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 milk shortage has been observed. These shortages can be attributed to supply issues and recall because of potential contamination.

Mother breastfeeding her baby. — Source: commons.wikimedia.org

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 newborn formulas out there, and they all differ from the base material of the milk and their intended use.

Many milks are designed to be hypoallergenic, and some contain proteins that are hydrolyzed to ease digestion.

Cow’s Milk Based

Cow’s milk, 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 to digest. Plus, they are also iron fortified formula to address to iron needs of the newborn. This type is most common in the United States.

Most cow’s milk formulas are sufficient (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 milks based on goat’s milk or soy milk.

Soy-Based

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 baby formula as well. Thus, it is important to consult with your pediatrician before switching.

Specialized

Specialty baby formulas, simply known as specialized milk, are 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 milk include:

Extensively Hydrolyzed

The Extensively hydrolyzed baby milk is specifically designed for babies with protein allergies to cow’s milk. The milk proteins in this milk 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) considers this milk 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 milk 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 milks 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 milk. Thus, European milks are known to contain certified organic milk and natural components. Also, European formulas are non-GMO. Also, European milk are non-GMO. One of them could be the recommended formula for colic babies.

Mother feeding her newborn with formula through a feeding bottle. — Source: pixabay.com

Despite the many types of baby milk or varieties, not all baby milk is recommended for neewbosn 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 milks are preferred for newborns. These milks contain low levels of casein, the protein in milk that comes out during curdling. Lowering levels of this protein help prevent dangerous interactions with newborn’s sensitive stomachs. First-stage milks 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 Newborn Formula: 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 milks. 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 newborns, whose nervous systems are still developing at a rapid pace.

Enfamil formula for newborns — Source: commons.wikimedia.org

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 milks. 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. The question on the minds of many mothers is “Enfamil baby milk better than Similac?” Enfamil and Similac have their own unique formulations and variations, each designed to cater to different aspects of newborn nutrition. Like Enfamil EnfaCare, this product also has high levels of DHA and ARA.

Organic Baby Formula

Besides conventional baby milk, Earth’s Organic baby milk is also recommended by pediatricians. 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, including DHA, ARA, HMO, and lutein, for brain, immune, gut, and vision health. What makes organic milk 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 milks 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 newborn 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 milk, which contains milk proteins partly broken down to aid babies experiencing colic and gas issues (Enfamil, Gerber, Happy Baby organic formula, and Similac are top choices for this type); soy based milk, 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 milk or soy-based formula as a top or primary choice, so it is always important to consult your baby’s pediatrician first.

If you prefer organic, and if you don’t mind spending a few more bucks as organic milk is slightly less cheap, consider Earth’s Best Organic milk, which is among the most affordable and popular organic milk 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.

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 milk. A milk protein is found in cow’s milk, so if your baby has a milk protein allergy, it is extremely important to look for sensitive baby formula. These milks are specific for babies with sensitive tummies.

A partially hydrolyzed whey protein milk is also highly recommended to prevent milk protein allergies, as well as opting for hypoallergenic milk or hydrolyzed milk, 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 newborns because of their condition. There are also a number of baby milks 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 a source of breast milk and cow’s milk, but other newborn formulas 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, as the benefits include faster recovery and development.

The Takeaway

As mentioned earlier, human milk is still the ideal food for newborns and other babies. Scientists have yet to identify, let alone synthesize the multiple biological and chemical components of breastmilk. Even the best formulas will still not come close to breastmilk. And with the milk 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 infants. Hence, they should still be able to meet the baby’s nutritional needs of your baby adequately. Besides, almost any baby milk that passes regulations is safe to use.

A bottle of milk with mother and baby playing in the background. — Source: pexels.com

As with any significant nutritional intervention, it is advised to consult with a medical professional first before using any baby milk. 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 milk 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 infants.

Frequently Asked Questions About Newborn Formulas

What’s The Good Milk For A Gassy Baby?

To reiterate what the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends, there is no greater alternative to human milk or breastmilk. But for a formula for babies with gassy issues, experts and parents alike prefer a certain brand that they think solve babies’ gas issues, which is a partially hydrolyzed milk with low lactose.

What Is The Healthiest Baby Milk?

As of March 2020, it was reported on a baby website that the top organic baby milk products are Similac Pro-Advance (natural ingredients are close to breast milk composition), Plum Organics Grow Well (great milk for infants and toddlers), and Earth’s Best Organic Formula with Iron. Everything is organic and with fatty acids DHA and ARA.

Is The Powder Formula OK For Infants?

For newborns, human milk is still the ideal choice. But powdered milk is an acceptable alternative that could still deliver nutrients for babies who are not breastfed. Powdered milk that is popular and recommended for babies includes Similac formulas, and Enfamil NeuroPro, Earth’s Best Organic Formula for organic formulas, while Kirkland Signature Pro are known for being the cheapest, without a compromise on its milk quality. Also, Kirkland Signature Pro are good milk formulas as they use ingredients of specialized fat and sugar, which makes it better than other formulas in mimicking the human milk.

What Are The Healthiest Baby Milk Brands?

Here are the top-rated formula, as reported on a baby website: Enfamil A+, Gerber Good Start, HiPP Baby Formula, and Similac Pro-Sensitive Non-GMO.

How Do You Know If The Milk Doesn’t Suit Your Baby?

There’s a possibility that babies consuming ready-to-feed formula and reacting adversely to a certain brand may not be formula-ready. Symptoms like reddish skin, loose bowel movement, tiredness and irritability, and vomiting may be present. It is recommended that babies stop drinking formula right away if symptoms of allergy occur and consult with their pediatrician regarding switching milks.

How Do I Know If I Need To Change My Baby’s Milk?

Not all will be tolerated by your kid’s stomach. So signs that you will need to change to a different own milk brand include your child experiencing slow weight gain, spitting up and projectile vomits, fussiness after feeding, constipation, and allergy symptoms.

Can I Mix Powdered Milk And Breastmilk?

Absolutely, yes. This is called combination feeding or supplementation. Health experts actually recommend this to ensure the child gets enough nutrition when the mother’s milk is in low supply. Additionally, you can also mix the best baby cereal to mix with formula for added nutrition and variety. This is also used for convenience when introducing bottle feeding, which is important for working mothers who are going return to work. If you plan on doing this however, make sure you consult with your child’s pediatrician or lactation consultant for guidance. You will need to get the needed ratios and methods for you and your baby’s specific situation.

Different hospitals may have slightly different policies. Most hospitals, of course, use or recommend formulas specifically made for neonates. This milk meets the nutritional requirements of their early development (such as iron) to mimic the composition of their mother’s breastmilk as closely as possible. Some of the more common brands are Enfamil, Gerber, and Similar.

Moreover, the choice of milk also depends on a number of factors based on the baby’s needs, including their specific medical conditions and the hospital’s pharmacopoeia. However, most hospitals will still encourage breastmilk and provide support for lactation.

There is no hard and fast rule in choosing feeding bottles for your child, as this can vary on your baby’s specific needs and your personal preferences. However, there are factors that you may want to consider for your convenience and your child’s comfort and safety.

For one, you cannot go wrong with choosing anti-colic feeding bottles. These bottles come with a special venting system (air vents) to help significantly reduce the amount of air that your baby ingests while feeding and prevent colic and discomfort.

Obviously, you need to consider the material. Plastic bottles are the most popular; they are light and don’t easily break. However, many plastics may come with harmful chemicals. Glass bottles, on the other hand, are generally safer but can break easily too.

Another factor you need to consider is the capacity and size of the bottle. Newborns typically consume smaller amounts of milk, which makes 4 -6 oz bottles suitable. As they grow, of course, you will need bigger bottles.

Lastly, you need to consider the cleaning. You will have to disassemble, clean, and reassemble these bottles. A bottle with a wider neck and fewer parts is much more convenient to clean and use.

Only your child’s pediatrician can give the most appropriate professional advice about your baby’s health and weight. Consult your child’s healthcare provider or a dietitian to assess your baby’s unique needs and to get the right recommendations. When making any recommendations, they will need to consider your child’s age, growth pattern, and current health (or any underlying health conditions).

With that said, most standard newborn milk in the market is designed to provide adequate nutrition to help your baby gain weight as he/she develops. This includes a balanced mix of carbohydrates, proteins, fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. These products, of course, adhere to the World Health Organization (WHO) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommendations.

Should your child’s pediatrician recommend specialized milk to help him/her gain weight, they normally prescribe high-calorie milk. This is, however, specifically prescribed to babies with growth concerns or special medical conditions.

As said earlier, there is no single best milk for your child. Each baby has unique needs, and only your child’s pediatrician can assess that and recommend the milk suited for your baby’s specific needs. In many cases, however, most milk products for newborns in the market can provide balanced nutrition to mimic breastmilk. They are designed to provide essential nutrients for your baby’s development and growth. You can opt for gentle and sensitive or even lactose-free milk for newborns with digestive sensitivity issues.

Last Updated on May 14, 2023 by Cath Aguinaldo

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