Choosing formula milk

If you’re not breastfeeding your baby, you’ll need to choose a suitable formula milk – and there’s a wide range of options, all of which have to meet Food and Drug Administration guidelines when it comes to nutrients.

Unless you’ve been otherwise advised by your pediatrician, cows’ milk based formula will likely be your best option. Some of the brands on offer include extra ingredients found in breast milk, such as the long chain fatty acids DHA and ARA. These formulas may be closer to breast milk than others and there’s some evidence suggesting that they may boost physical and cognitive development. You can also get formula designed specifically for premature babies, with more calories and fats; and some with added rice for babies with reflux.

If your baby is allergic to cows’ milk, or you‘re raising him as a vegan, you can get formulas that are soy-based. Hydrolyzed formula is also worth a try if your baby has an allergy or a medical condition that affects his absorption of nutrients, since the protein it contains is broken down and easier to digest. If your baby is lactose-intolerant, there will also be option for him – ask your pediatrician for a recommendation.

Once you’ve chosen your formula you’ll need to think about what form you’d prefer to use it in. Ready to use may be more convenient but it’s more expensive and you’ll need to use it up within 48 hours of opening it. Liquid concentrate is less expensive and easier to mix than powder; but powder is the cheapest option and has the longest shelf life.

Why not chat to other moms about this, or other topics, by leaving a message on our chat forum? Alternately, if you want to meet other moms in your area with similar age babies, visit our people section to find out what’s happening in your area, or join or start one of our groups. Don't forget to upload a photo of your baby into one of our galleries, such as I love my baby or Just like my Dad.

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