How to Choose Between Baby Formulas

Once you've decided to feed your baby with formula, you will find a wide variety of options. Your little one's nutrition is vital, so learn the differences between formulas to select the right one for your child.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Understand that although there are a variety of prices, the primary difference among baby formulas is their ingredients. Some babies respond better to certain combinations than others.
2. Research both more expensive name brands and store brands.
3. Consider that Enfamil Lipil is one of the latest formulas from Mead Johnson. It provides a 'whey-to-casein' ratio of 60:40. They claim that 'no other formula is closer to breast milk than Enfamil LIPIL.'
4. Know that Nestle Good Start Supreme's selling point is that it contains 100% whey and partially hydrolyzed 'comfort proteins.' These are supposed to be easier to digest. It is also supposed to have a faster gastric emptying time, which may help children with reflux, and promote soft stools. This may help infants who are constipated.
5. Understand that Similac Advance is made without palm olein oil. They claim this feature helps their formula promote increased calcium absorption and greater bone mineralization. Similac Advance also contains 'special breast milk nutrients called nucleotides' that are supposed 'to help support the development of a baby's immune system,' however, all baby formulas contain nucleotides.
6. Consider that Store Brand Formulas from grocery stores like Target (Healthy Baby), and Wal-mart (Parent's Choice), are made by Wyeth Nutrition. They provide a 'nutritionally complete, sensibly priced formula option' for parents.
7. Research all formulas available to you and note any questions you'd like to ask your pediatrician.
8. Discuss your baby's behaviors with your physician to determine if one type of formula may be better for him or her than another.
9. Let a combination of price and trial and error narrow down the decision for the best formula fit for you and your child.

Tips & Warnings

• All infant formulas on the market in the U.S. are approved by the FDA.
• If your baby seems uncomfortable, gassy or fussy during or after feeding, it could be a sign of lactose intolerance. Discuss these behaviors with your pediatrician.