It is challenging to pick up proper formula for baby. In this blog Dr. Treskova is discussing indications for different baby formulas.
There is a great deal of decision making for new parents upon arrival of a new baby. The most frequent question is how to feed the new baby. Of course breastmilk is the best natural way of feeding a new baby. Maternal milk is adjusted to babies’ age. Premature babies can benefit from maternal milk drastically. There are also specialty formulas for premature babies, example is Neosure. But only mother’s milk has immunoglobulins, no other formula does. But circumstances are always different. There are always some obstacles and challenges that do not allow new mothers to breast-feed.
Then the decision-making about choosing the formula comes. The most common formulas are cow’s milk-based formulas. This formula is Enfamil, Similac, and Gerber. There are also organic formulas. Majority of formulas have DHA for better brain and visual development. A gassy baby might benefit from formula that is lactose free. If the baby is fussy, colicky, has a lot of gas, it is wise to consider using formulas that have a little bit of probiotics that help with digestion and and/or contain comfort proteins like Enfamil gentlease, Gerber hydrolyzed, Similac comfort. If there is a family history of milk protein allergy or indigestion using the soya formula might be helpful. All soy or ProSobee can be considered for this reason. One has to keep in mind that there might be 30 to 40% intolerance to soy, if there is a problem digesting cow’s milk. So sometimes using more hydrolysed, i.e. broken down protein will suit babies’ digestive tract better. In this case formulas like Nutramigen and Alimentum can be considered. If there is blood in the stool it is frequently difficult to make a conclusion where it is coming from. Is it coming from constipation, anal fissure or milk protein allergy? If the blood in the stool is caused by milk protein allergy the best formulas to use are Elecare and Neocate.
It is always wise to consult your pediatrician and pediatric gastroenterologist, if you feel that you have to make that type of change. We are always available for consultation.
You can easily schedule an appointment at www.gastropaediatrics.com or call us at 845-341-0264.
Author Dr. Erena Treskova