Many will argue that breastfeeding offers the best source of nutrition for your infant. However, for those who are unable to breastfeed or simply prefer not to, baby formula is a viable alternative to a mother’s milk. Breast milk contains many important proteins and minerals, so the key to a successful formula lies in creating a product that mimics its physical and nutritional properties. Let’s take a closer look at the main types of formula and some of the raw materials used.
Dairy-Based Baby Formula
Most infants do well ingesting cow’s milk, and this type of formula provides a good balance of nutrients and ease of digestion. Baby formula made from cow’s milk has been altered with extra nutrition to resemble breast milk as close as possible. However, some babies are allergic to the proteins in cow’s milk and therefore need a different option.
Soy-Based Baby Formula
For those infants who are sensitive to cow’s milk, a soybean-based baby formula might be a healthier alternative. This vegetable-derived milk may eliminate animal proteins from your child’s diet, but that doesn’t necessarily mean the formula will be trouble-free. It’s still possible to have an allergic reaction to soy milk. For these sensitive infants, yet another alternative is available: protein hydrolyzed formulas.
Protein Hydrolysate Baby Formula
These types of formulas are composed of proteins that have been broken down (hydrolyzed) either partially or extensively. The focus here is on breaking down the proteins into smaller chains that a sensitive infant can tolerate.
Baby Formula Ingredients
Now let’s take a look at some of the basic ingredients used in common baby formula:
- Proteins
As we discussed above, the proteins found in baby formulas can derive from animals or vegetables. Proteins are especially important for a baby’s development because they are found in every cell in our body and, therefore, are the building blocks for our muscles and organs. The three main types of proteins are whey, casein, and soy protein. An infant child requires adequate levels of protein in order to grow.
- Vitamins and Minerals
Formulas are enhanced with vitamins and minerals in order to increase the nutritional value. These vitamins include B12 for a healthy nervous system, vitamin D for good bone health, and vitamin A for immune system support. The added minerals range from calcium to zinc. Iron is crucial for supporting brain development and growth in general, particularly during an infant’s first year of life.
- Carbohydrates and Fats
Carbohydrates and fats are essential for the growth of a young infant; not only physically, but mentally as well. Infants who lack these vital nutrients have delayed cognitive and behavioral development. Healthy fats are important because of how rapidly an infant grows. They need plenty of calories in the early stages, and fat can supply those calories much better than protein or carbohydrates. Essential fatty acids also play a major role in the development of the retina and a child’s visual acuity.
