Formula Food for Babies

The Indian Academy of Paediatrics recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months. Mother’s milk is the best source of nutrition for a baby, but there are few conditions where mother’s milk cannot be given or it is not enough for the baby.  (Link to previous article First Feed to Newborn)

In such circumstances Formula can be given to the baby. WHO advises not to use cow’s milk for babies before 1 year as there is increased instances of Iron deficiency Anemia and Allergies in infants fed with cow’s milk.

Here are some useful tips to choose the right formula for your baby;

Types of Infant formula.

There are basically three types of infant formula available in the market, cow’s milk based (more similar to breastmilk), soy based (for babies allergic to milk proteins or lactose), protein hydrosylsate based formula (for babies who are allergic to both cow’s milk and soy based)

Iron fortified formula

Always ensure that the formula is Iron fortified as breastmilk has the adequate Iron for the baby’s development whereas formula has to fortified with iron to provide the baby adequate nutrition.

DHA enhanced formula

DHA and AA enhanced formula are in much vogue now due to their benefits in brain development. Human breastmilk has the adequate levels to promote the normal brain development and so it is better to go for a formula that is DHA and AA enhanced.

What if my baby has lactose allergy?

If your baby has lactose allergies then please consult your paediatrician who will either advice a lactose free formula or a soy based formula.

How much formula to feed the baby ?

According to the AAP on a average your baby must be fed about 75 ml per 453gms of body weight. You don’t have to follow this strict regime, follow your baby’s hunger cues and feed appropriately.

How to give formula for babies

The formula packet will have the instructions regarding the number of scoops of powder to be used and the amount of water that has to be added. Please follow the instructions and do not add either more powder or water than required. Always sterilise the feeding utensils with hot water and use it for the baby.

Author Bio

I am Dr.Hemapriya, a.k.a the “Doctor Mommy”. I am a medical doctor by profession, no longer into active medical practice as my two little moppets keep me pretty much busy. But, this has not stopped me from putting my medical knowledge to good use.