Choosing the Right Newborn Formula for Your Baby

While most experts agree that breast feeding is the healthiest option, that isn't always possible for everyone. Now that you've come to the conclusion that baby formula will be your baby's source of nutrition, you may be in the process of deciding which newborn formula is right for your baby. There are many factors to consider during this decision process.

Talk With Your Child's Pediatrician
Deciding which newborn formula is right for your baby should always involve a talk with your child's pediatrician. The pediatrician can make recommendations for what may be the best choices, as well as base recommendations on a child's individual needs. If your baby has any health conditions or allergies, consulting the pediatrician about the formula choice is vital in making the best choice.

Know the Most Common Formula Types
Newborn babies will generally start out with a cow's milk newborn formula, unless there are known allergies or health conditions that warrant against it. Cow's milk newborn formula wil be fortified with vitamins and nutrients that baby needs to grow. Soy newborn formula will be nutrient and vitamin-fortified, just like cow's milk formula, but is lactose-free. There also are lactose-free cow's milk formulas. Another type of formula is referred to as either hypoallergenic formula or protein hydrolysate formula. Specialized formula that addresses specific medical needs also exists. Deciding which newborn formula is right for your baby involves knowledge on each of these, as well as your baby.

Know Your Baby's Nutritional Needs
If your pediatrician has recommended a newborn formula that contains Omega-3 proteins, such as DHA and ARA, be sure to factor that in when deciding which newborn formula is right for your baby. One example is that of premature babies. They may require a specific type of newborn formula for optimal growth and health.

Know Your Newborn's Allergy and Medical History
If food allergies are present, deciding which newborn formula is right for your baby will include considering which options are the safest. Also keep in mind any medical issues, such as prematurity, gastrointestinal conditions, and more. In such circumstances, the pediatrician should always be consulted for the safest choice.

Factor the Cost
After taking into consideration the factors above, as well as any other personal or pediatrician-recommended concerns, think about the cost. The goal should be not to find the cheapest formula, but to find the lowest cost of the formula types suited to your baby's needs. Buying in bulk during sales and shopping around can help with this. Buying in bulk works best once the baby has been doing well with the formula choice for a good amount of time.

-- Note that the author is not a licensed medical professional. The above is provided for informational purposes. Always consult a licensed medical professional for any advice pertaining to health matters.

Sources:

Personal Experience

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/infant-formula/PR00058

http://www.medicinenet.com/infant_formulas/page2.htm