Table of Contents
Nature has not invented anything better than breast milk. Mothers try to breastfeed for as long as possible to protect their babies. But sometimes situations arise when we have to look for alternative ways of feeding. The question arises whether it is better to offer baby formula or cow’s milk.
For generations, women in rural areas have fed their children goat or cow’s milk. The enzyme lactase, which can break down milk lactose, is produced to a greater extent in infants than in adult children. This affects the better digestion of milk. But does this mean that babies can be given plain milk? The unequivocal answer is no. Because due to the latest scientific research, scientists have proven many arguments about the negative effects of pure cow’s or goat’s milk on the unstable gastrointestinal tract of a newborn baby.
Milk formula – facts parents should know about
Well, for first-time moms who are just learning the basics of feeding on artificial nutrition, a little sightseeing.
- Buying toddler formula, carefully examine the packaging. It should not be deformed or open. Check the expiration date particularly carefully. Don’t forget that the product should be chosen according to age. For the babies from one month to three, take the formula with “one”, then go to an older one: 2, 3, etc.
- Prepare baby food according to the instructions. Use a measuring spoon, which you can pour the powder into.
- The temperature of boiled water should not exceed 37 degrees, but much lower will not do, as the dry product will not dissolve completely in it.
- Don’t forget to sterilize your bottles and nipples well. You should have several in your arsenal: while some are drying and resting, others are working.
It is better to have a special sterilizer, although numerous brushes and scrubbers in the house, too, should be a must. By the way, periodically check the nipples, as holes in some rubber models have the property to expand. The formula begins to leak by itself. The baby can choke or swallow air.
- Pour out the leftover formula immediately after feeding; you should not store it. It oxidizes quickly and becomes a breeding ground for bacteria.
- Buy a bottle warmer and a special thermoform case to occasionally take food with you to visit or for long walks.
- Never change the formula often. Buy products of the same company, even if they cost more than the analogs to which you have allergies or indigestion.
With the right approach, the baby, even on artificial nutrition, will grow up strong and healthy.
It is also important that baby feeding was a special ritual between mom and baby, with the maximum use of tactile displays. After all, mommy’s gentle embrace is a sense of protection and security. And in these conditions, breastfeeding is perfect and with maximum benefit.
Consider the desired composition of baby formula
To date, there is a wide enough choice of artificial baby food on the market. To make it easier for young parents to understand the choice, let us give some hints on the composition of baby formula:
- the level of protein should be reduced to approach a woman’s milk;
- there are numerous minerals (calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, iodine, and others);
- there is taurine, which is necessary for the full development of the CNS and vision;
- prebiotics and probiotics are very desirable, as they have a positive effect on the intestinal microflora;
- nucleotides help maintain immunity;
- polyunsaturated fatty acids play an important role in brain development.
Unlike regular milk, the Kendamil Formula has a fairly long shelf life, it is easy to store and use. For proper feeding, the regimen and proportions should be followed. The negative point is the cost – unlike breast milk, you have to pay for this baby food.
It is important to correctly calculate the rate of milk formula consumed by the baby.
Adapted milk formula for babies on artificial feeding is the only option for dairy food. Compared to breast milk, it is absorbed more slowly, so the baby stays full for longer. Mothers have to adjust and feed their babies hourly – the daily interval is 3-3,5 hours, nightly – 6 hours.
But believe me: despite the long intervals, babies on artificial nutrition are not inferior to babies in the amount eaten. They receive a bottle five to seven times a day (premature babies are fed more often). Each meal is calculated so that the daily amount of food covers, but does not exceed, the nutritional needs of different ages. Therefore, if the baby asks for more, you cannot give him an additive – otherwise, you can overfeed, causing discomfort in the stomach. With a constant surplus of food, the child will suffer from excess body weight.
All general recommendations on choice, consumption, and age norms you should discuss with your pediatrician. Eat well and properly and grow up healthy!