Infant Formula is Safe and Healthy

It’s generally accepted that the best way to nourish your baby is by breastfeeding. It gives her optimum nutrition and builds up her immune system. However, there are circumstances where it simply isn’t feasible, either for the baby or the mother. Baby formula is sometimes the only alternative for a number of different reasons.

But there are people who are worried about possible issues that might arise from giving cow’s milk to their baby. They’re not comfortable with the thought of giving their baby formula. In reality, though, commercially prepared baby formula is a safe and nutritious alternative to breastfeeding.

Pure cow’s milk isn’t recommended for babies under a year old. The quality and quantity of nutrients it contains aren’t as ideal as those found in breast milk. But baby formula isn’t just milk in a fancy package. A lot of science goes into preparing baby formula. It contains proteins and fats that resemble breast milk very closely.

You can also find infant formula that is based on products other than cow’s milk. Some newborns are lactose intolerant and can’t digest dairy products. But you have other choices that are healthy and safe.

One good alternative is formula based on soy products. It’s made with soy protein and is lactose free. Be careful though, that you buy soy formula, not soy milk, which is unsuitable for babies.

Another substitute for formula made from dairy products is a product containing protein hydrolysate. The proteins it contains are already broken down similar to what would take place during natural digestion.

All these products are available in a variety of formulations. Your least expensive choice is powdered formula. It’s prepared at home using boiled water. Concentrated liquid formula is also intended to be diluted with water, but is typically easier to prepare.

When preparing either powdered or concentrated products, it’s important to measure carefully. The ratio of formula to water is critical for nutrition and proper digestion. Also be sure to sterilize all utensils that are used to prepare the formula.

On the other hand, ready-to-use formula is pre-mixed for instant use. It’s also the most expensive of your various options. Similar to the other formulations, you can feed it to your baby either warmed up or at room temperature, depending on her preferences.

One drawback with bottle feeding formula is that parents become more aware of the quantities being ingested. According to trusted sources of baby advice, you should never force your child to drink more than she is willing to consume. Even if she’s not taking in as much as you think she should, when she should, it’s best to just put the bottle away and wait until she’s ready. Your baby won’t starve; when she’s hungry, she’ll let you know.