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About Formula
Consider all the
options when choosing an infant formula.
Medical experts
will tell you that breastfeeding is best for baby, but not every mom
can--or wants to--breastfeed. Today's formulas are sophisticated,
nutritionally rich concoctions that meet many different dietary needs
for baby, including allergy problems or vegetarianism. Breastfeeding
moms may even choose to supplement baby's diet with formula feedings.
Either way, at some point you may cross paths with baby formula. But
what are your choices, and what should you buy? Here's a quick rundown
of formula facts that will help you decide.
Types of Formula
Cow's-milk-based: This is the standard formula infants are offered
if the mother doesn't breastfeed; it accounts for 80 percent of all
formula sold. Although it's based on cow's milk, it's manufactured
in such a way to be safe for a human baby's digestive system. The
milk protein is hydrolyzed (partially predigested) to be less irritating,
and the normal milk fat is replaced with vegetable oils, which are
more easily digested. Extra lactose is added to raise the sugar level
to that of breast milk.
Soy-based: Soy
formula differs from standard formula in that it's manufactured with
a different protein (soy) and different sugar (sucrose or modified
starch). You'll need to use this formula during episodes of acute
diarrhea, when some babies are temporarily intolerant to the regular
milk sugar, lactose. Or, if you're a strict vegetarian who isn't breastfeeding,
this may be the best main formula for you, since it contains no animal
products.
Specialized:
There are a number of formulas available for infants who have unusual
conditions (severe allergies or digestive problems, for example).
Some such formulas contain a predigested form of milk protein that
is much less irritating to babies with milk allergy. Others contain
a special form of fat that's more easily absorbed by children who
have a disease of the pancreas or liver. Ask your pediatrician if
she thinks your baby needs a specialized formula.
How Formula Is
Packaged
Most infant formulas are available in one of three forms. You may
choose to use a combination of the three for ease, depending on your
situation.
Ready-to-use:
This is the most convenient--and the most expensive--choice. No muss,
no fuss, just open and serve.
Liquid Concentrate:
This form is less expensive, and typically prepared by mixing with
an equal part of water. If you use concentrate, be sure to add the
right amount of water: Diluted formula will rob your baby of valuable
protein and calories, while a concentrated formula may cause stomach
upset and diarrhea.
Powder: This
is the least expensive option. You mix it with the proper amount of
water until it's completely dissolved. The main advantages of powder
formula, besides the cost, are that it's lightweight and portable.
You can put a measured amount of powder in your baby's bottle, toss
it into your carryall, and mix it with water right before use.
Should Water Be Sterilized?
Water sterilization isn't necessary under normal circumstances in
the United States. Although there are occasional outbreaks of infectious
diarrhea related to contaminated municipal water supplies, the risk
is minimal and doesn't warrant regular sterilization. Still, check
with your pediatrician, since public health measures vary by community.
If your local government does mandate water boiling, boil the water--not
the formula. Boiling formula may affect its vitamin and protein content.
Your
should know:
The
information on this Web site is designed for educational purposes
only. It is not intended to be a substitute for informed medical
advice or care. You should not use this information to diagnose
or treat any health problems or illnesses without consulting your
pediatrician or family doctor. Please consult a doctor with any
questions or concerns you might have regarding your or your child's
condition.
Rebornne Baby. American Baby
