When you become a new mother , especially during your baby's first year, there are more than one or two questions that come to mind about nutrition. Although breast milk is the first choice of every mother, sometimes you have to give your baby formula when your breast milk is not enough or for other health reasons. That's when the biggest question that many mothers have arises - "What is the best formula to give my baby, the one that suits him best?" So let's talk about this today, to help you choose the one that suits your baby best.
What types of powdered milk can be given to babies?
It can be a little intimidating to see the many types of infant formula on the market. But each one is designed to suit babies with different needs. Whichever type you choose, it should be iron-fortified . Iron is essential for a baby's healthy growth.
Now let's see what the main types of powdered milk are.
| Type of milk powder | What's in this? | Who is best suited for? |
|---|---|---|
| Cow Milk-Based Formula | It mainly contains cow's milk proteins that have been processed using various techniques to make them easier for babies to digest. Lactose and iron have been added to make it similar to breast milk. | This type is suitable for most babies without any specific health problems. This is the most common type on the market. |
| Extensively Hydrolyzed Formula | Simply put, this is a type of "predigested" flour. The proteins in it have been broken down into very small pieces that can be easily absorbed by the baby's digestive system. | This is the type that doctors recommend for babies with milk allergies and digestive problems. |
| Soy-Based Formula | These contain protein from soy. They do not contain milk protein or lactose. | These are given on medical advice to babies who are lactose intolerant or to babies from families who do not consume cow's milk products for ethical/religious reasons. |
| Specialized Formula | These are made specifically for babies with special medical conditions. For example, they are designed to fit babies who were born with low birth weight, babies with heart conditions, or babies with other metabolic disorders. | These should only be used on the recommendation of a pediatrician. |
Forms of Formula
Just like powdered milk, there are several forms of it available on the market. While all of them have similar nutritional value, their ease of use and price vary.
- Powder: This is the most commonly used method that we all know. You need to mix the flour powder that comes in a can with the right amount of melted and boiled water. This is the cheapest and easiest to find.
- Liquid Conc ENT rate: This comes as a thick liquid. It needs to be mixed with water and given to the baby. It is a little more expensive than the powder form.
- Ready-to-Feed: This is the easiest to use. There is no mixing or measuring required. You can pour it into a bottle and feed it directly to your baby. This is very convenient when traveling. However, it is significantly more expensive than the other two types.
Consider these things when choosing the best powdered milk
Your doctor is the best person to choose the right type of formula for your baby. He or she will give you the best recommendation based on your baby's health, weight, and allergies. In addition, keep these factors in mind when purchasing formula.
Be careful about safety.
If you buy powdered milk from an approved, trusted source in Sri Lanka, it is usually manufactured in accordance with the required nutritional standards.
- Be sure to check the expiration date .
- Check if the tin/packet is sealed properly and if there are any dents, scratches, etc. If there is any, do not buy it.
- Think twice before buying powdered milk that is illegally imported from foreign countries and advertised as "organic" or "all-natural." If it is not of the proper quality and stored at the right temperature, it can be harmful to your baby's health.
Do not try to make powdered milk at home for any reason! It is not at all appropriate for babies today to give cow's milk with sugar and water as in the past. Such products do not contain the vitamins, minerals, and nutrients needed for a baby's growth in the right proportions. This can lead to serious nutritional deficiencies in the baby.
Keep these things in mind when making powdered milk.
- Use only clean, safe water . If you are in doubt about your water, boil it for about one minute and then let it cool to room temperature for no more than 30 minutes.
- Before giving it to your baby, test the temperature by putting a few drops of the prepared milk on the inside of your wrist . It should be lukewarm, at a level that your baby can tolerate.
- Once you have finished feeding your baby, do not give any leftover milk back. Throw it away. Keep the opened can of powdered milk tightly closed and store it in a cool, dry place.
Most babies can start drinking fortified cow's milk after they are one year old . Do not give toddler drinks to babies under one year old. They should continue to receive breast milk or formula to meet their nutritional needs.
Take-Home Message
- Before starting or switching your baby to a different type of formula, be sure to consult your doctor .
- Make sure the type of powdered milk you choose is iron -fortified.
- Do not make powdered milk at home for any reason. It can be very dangerous for the baby.
- Always check the expiration date and the condition of the package when purchasing powdered milk.
- Always use clean, boiled water to make powdered milk.
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