FAQs on Baby Formula

Either you’re a first-time mom or having your second or third baby, we are sure you still have a lot of questions about baby formula. You only want excellence so it is good that you are doing your part to know if the formula works best for your little one. This article aims to answer the most frequently asked questions about formulas to help mommies out there in choosing whether or not formula-feeding is the way to go.

What is a baby formula?

Baby formula is given to an infant as an alternative to breast milk. It is usually given to babies who are not able to do breastfeeding due to various reasons like allergies, the inability of the mother to produce milk or just the parents’ preference. Formulas are often made out of cows’ milk. However, due to new developments and discoveries, infant formula can now be derived from other milk sources like soya and goats’ milk. Formula either come in a form of a powder that has to be diluted with water or ready-to-feed packs.

Is formula good for babies?

Baby formula is created to provide the nutrients that babies need to grow and develop. People say that it is not as good as breast milk, but infant formula is still able to build the fundamentals of a baby’s health like strong bones and teeth, sufficient muscle growth, etc.

What is in baby formula?

The ingredients in an infant formula all depend on the what type of formula it is. You should know that baby formula should have the essential nutrients like vitamins and minerals, protein, iron, calcium, protein, etc.

What are the types of formula?

There are different types of formula depending on the ingredients and milk source. The most common type comes from cows’ milk. Now, there are formulas that are derived from goats’ milk and soy. Some are made lactose-free and hypoallergenic, perfect for babies who are born to be lactose intolerant or have allergies to a certain ingredient.

Is there a specific formula for every age?

Some brands produce age-specific types of formula. These are often categorized per stage of a baby’s life. There are kinds of milk for newborns or 0 to 3 months, infant or 0 to 12 months, and toddlers or 9 to 18 months. If you are looking for good formulas that can be given to babies right after they are born, click this link: https://myorganiccompany.store/collections/holle/products/holle-stage-1-organic-baby-formula

Can baby formula replace breast milk?

Some may say that breast milk is still a better option for babies, however, that is not the case to everyone else. There are babies who have a hard time latching on to their mothers’ nipple or some mothers cannot produce milk at all. Formulas are developed to replicate the nutrients that breast milk can provide. To answer the question: yes, baby formula can replace breast milk so you do not have to worry if you are not able to breastfeed your child.

Why is formula better than breast milk?

Breast milk may be most moms’ first choice. What they do not know is that baby formula is better in some other ways.

1. You’ll be able to monitor and measure the milk intake of your baby.
2. The mother does not have to worry about her diet as the baby isn’t relying on her milk for nutrition.
3. Feeding schedule can be easily arranged since the formula can be readily available anytime.
4. You can feed the baby easily wherever you are.
5. The baby can be fed by anyone in the household which relieves stress from the mother.

Can you feed the baby both breast milk and formula milk?

There are what they call supplementing formula in the market. This type of formula is made to “supplement” the breast milk that the mother provides. Alternating breastfeeding and formula-feeding are definitely normal and a safe method to do. This is perfect for parents who at times see formula feeding as more convenient even though they are still able to breastfeed their babies.

What is an organic formula?

Now that most people are getting conscious of what they put inside their bodies, a lot of parents are switching to organic formula. It is said to be better and a healthier option than normal formula since it is free of GMOs, pesticides and other chemicals that are harmful to the body. Organic baby formula is often made out of cow’s milk or soy and is usually lactose-free. As always, read the fine print on the ingredients of either organic formula or conventional formula to know if it is really good for your baby.

Does infant formula go bad?

Just like any other kinds of milk, already prepared baby formula is no good once it goes bad. The powdered formula in an unopened also has an expiration date. Out of date formula should not be used anymore since they no longer have the same levels of nutrients as they should have.

How much does a formula cost?

Depending on the brand and the type of formula, parents may spend between $1000 to $2000 dollars a year. This is one of the downsides of formula-feeding – it can get really costly. You also have to buy baby bottles and other equipment that has to be used to prepare the milk. However, if these all seem worth it, then you should go at it. This goes to show how having a baby requires you to be financially stable.

How can I choose the right formula for my baby?

Make reading the label a habit when buying formula. As a mother, you should know best what your baby needs. It is also important to consult your baby’s paediatrician to know if there are restrictions that you should avoid. He or she will also be able to recommend a good formula for your baby. Make sure that it is suitable for your son or daughter and it has all the nutrients that he or she needs to grow as a happy and healthy baby.