Breastfeeding is the best way to nourish a newborn. According to WHO recommendations, a baby should be breastfed at least until the age of two. However, breastfeeding is not always possible and sometimes it is necessary to use the baby formula. These products are based on cow’s or goat’s milk and processed in such a way that their composition resembles human milk as closely as possible. Let’s look at some tips on choosing the best infant baby formula for your little one.
Check the Composition
The baby formula must contain the appropriate amount of protein, fats, carbohydrates, micronutrients, macronutrients, and vitamins (A, C, D, E, K, and B group) in the right proportions to meet the nutritional requirements of the baby.
According to EU regulations, all baby formulas must also contain long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFA), such as docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), α-linolenic acid (ALA), and linoleic acid (LA). They have a beneficial effect on the development of the immune system, nervous system, vision, and cognitive functions.
Other ingredients worth paying attention to are probiotics and prebiotics. Probiotics are microorganisms that have a beneficial effect on the gut function. These include lactic acid bacteria from the genera Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium and the yeast Saccharomyces Boulardii. Prebiotics are a special type of dietary fiber that stimulates the development of beneficial microorganisms in the digestive tract.
Consider the Baby’s Nutritional Needs
The choice of a baby formula depends not only on the child’s age but also on their health and nutritional needs.
If a baby is at risk of allergies, e.g. their parents or siblings have been diagnosed with allergies, it is worth consulting a doctor about the use of the hypoallergenic (HA) baby formula. It is intended especially for children at risk of allergies and contains hydrolyzed protein, i.e. cut into smaller fragments.
Colic and flatulence are common problems in babies. Their cause is the immaturity of the digestive and nervous systems. Specialized formulas for infants struggling with colic and flatulence contain less lactose. In addition, the protein is also partially hydrolyzed to make it easier for babies to digest.
There are also anti-reflux (AR) baby formulas. The immaturity of the digestive tract may contribute to frequent regurgitation in babies. This is because the lower esophageal sphincter muscle is not fully developed. As a consequence, the path between the esophagus and the stomach is not completely closed. Food backs up and flows out through the mouth. You can use the AR formula, the composition of which is enriched with substances that thicken food in the stomach, preventing it from flowing back into the esophagus.
R and GR baby formulas contain rice or rice-buckwheat gruel. They are intended for children who have a poor appetite or become hungry quickly after a meal. R and GR formulas are more filling compared to standard formulas and provide higher calorie content. The addition of gruels is also intended to increase the feeling of satiety.
Choosing a baby formula can be challenging. It is worth consulting a pediatrician who will provide the necessary information to help you make a more informed, right choice.
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