New parents have a variety of options when it comes to feeding your baby. If you are considering formula, there is a lot to know. In 2020 parents have lots of formula options on the market to choose from.
Making a decision can be difficult. Which is why we will look at the different options available, top baby formulas, and costs. Having a good understanding of the options can help you make the right choice for your baby.
Benefits of Formula
Formula has received a negative reputation among parents. There is a lot of information out there saying that breastfeeding is better than formula. According to doctors, however, formula is a healthy option for feeding your child as well.
Formula is the best alternative to traditional breastfeeding. If you are unable to breastfeed for some reason formula is a great option.
Formula feeding has an array of health benefits for your baby. There are many different reasons that a parent might choose to use formula. Formula feeding has a variety of different benefits for parents. Some of those benefits include:
Convenience
Formula is convenient because there is little preparation needed. Formula usually comes in a can that is dry and only needs water added. You can take it anywhere and anyone can prepare it. It’s great for parents who travel a lot or have a busy lifestyle.
Share in the Feeding
Formula is super easy when it comes to the feeding process. Parents can share responsibilities for feeding the baby. If you have help from a nanny, you can leave formula and avoid pumping schedules.
For moms who have to go back to work, this is a great option to avoid pumping at work. For fathers who want to share the feeding duties, this allows dads to prep food and feed the baby without mom’s help.
Easier Feeding Schedule
According to doctors, formula takes more time for the baby to digest. They do not eat as often as babies who are breastfeeding. This makes for an easier schedule for parents. Fewer feedings to schedule and more sleep time for the baby and the parents.
Fewer Restrictions for Mom
When you are breastfeeding, you have to be aware of what you consume. Some foods, alcohol, and medications can contaminate the breastmilk. If you have medications you need to take, formula may be a better option for you.
This also is less restrictive for the mother. You can have a glass of wine and not worry about it affecting your breastmilk.
Types of Top Baby Formulas
Formula comes in three different types. There is powdered, concentrated liquid, and ready-to-drink versions. Within those three types of formula come in cow’s milk-based varieties.
Some options are lactose-free or lactose-reduced. These are best for babies who have developed a lactose allergy or intolerance. Even though these formulas are cow’s milk-based it is important parents do not use regular cow’s milk. Babies are unable to drink regular milk until they are a year old.
In addition to these types of formulas, there are also specialty blends, including those that are goat milk-based. Some of these varieties include formulas that reduce colic, spitting up and more. There are special blends made for premature and low birth rate infants as well.
A benefit of formula is you can find types that help with problems your infant may be suffering from.
Powdered Formula
The biggest benefit of powdered formula is the cost. The powder is much cheaper than liquid or ready-to-drink options. If cost is a consideration, then powder may be the best option for you. Another benefit is convenience. You do not need to refrigerate powder; you can take it anywhere with you and not worry about it spoiling.
A negative of powder is that you must have water to mix it with on hand. You need to measure the water out and be careful to get the correct amount when mixing. Once you mix the powder with water then it is only good for a small amount of time and can spoil. So, if you will be away from home for a while you will need to bring a lot of water with you to have on hand for mixing when needed. You do not want to pre-mix the bottles to avoid them spoiling.
Concentrated Liquid
The benefit of concentrated liquid is that it is much faster when it comes to preparation. You can make the bottles quicker than you can with powder. You do need to mix it with water, to dilute it, but it’s faster than powder.
The negative of concentrated liquid is the cost. The concentrated liquid formula is more costly than a powdered formula. In fact, in some circumstances, it can be almost twice the cost as powdered.
You will need to be mindful of how long you can use a can that you have opened. If you are traveling for an extended time and unable to refrigerate you may not be able to keep it from spoiling.
Ready-to-Drink Liquid Formula
The biggest advantage is convenience. With ready-to-eat liquid formula, there is no mixing. They come in a bottle and all you need to do is shake, remove the lid, add a nipple, and serve. They usually do not have to be cold, so they make on-the-go feeding easy.
They also come in the perfect sizes, most come in 2-ounce servings which is perfect for newborns. You can get them in other sizes as well though if your baby eats more than 2 ounces.
The cost is the biggest negative. They can be rather expensive. Only six bottles can cost as much as an entire can of formula which will last a week for most babies.
Is Formula Right for Our Baby?
There is a lot of information available about formula on the market. Researching the different top baby formulas can help you make an informed decision. Consulting with your doctor is a good way to get all the information and make the right decision for your baby.
When you’re ready, be sure to check out our excellent formula options for a healthy and happy baby.
