When you give birth in a hospital, the nurses send you home with oodles of formula…and even more coupons for formula for the future.  Even if you plan on ONLY nursing, you might find that the formula comes in handy if your milk production lowers or it is an emergency. I was tempted to give the formula and the coupons away, but found they came in handy just for those reasons. Formula is really expensive and it is worth knowing what is the right kind for your child.

There are over 20 different kinds of formula out there. Parenting Magazine’s contributing editor, Claire McCarthy, MD, did a good job of explaining the differences in the types of formula- so I thought I would summarize her findings here.

Do check out my post about formula containers and the serious concern over them. It has been noted that the lining of the cans contain bispehnol A. 

Soy- this is made from soy protein instead of cow’s milk-based protein.  It is meant for babies with cow’s milk allergies or lactose intolerance and kids’ raised as strict vegetarians.  Most kid’s with cow’s milk allergies are allergic to soy as well.  True lactose intolerance is almost nonexistent this early. Most doctors now skip soy for hydrolysate.

Hydrolysate- this is made from cow’s milk proteins that are broken down to make the formula easier to digest.  This is meant for children with food alleries or lactose intolerance.  This formula is very expensive and costs almost twice as much as regular formula.  There are only 2 percent of babies with milk allergies and with digestive problems- so make sure your child really is before switching to either soy or hydrolysate.

Organic- free of pesticides, growth hormones and antibiotics. 

Rice Starch- rich starch is added to thicken the formula.  It is made for babies with severe spitup who need help with keep formula down to get enough calories.  This is meant for very few babies- alternatives to rice starch formula would be: using more formula to less water or antacids. 

Preterm- this contains more more of the nutrients premies need.

Toddler- this formula has more calcium and other nutrients.  This is meant for picky eaters who are 9 to 24 months old who aren’t getting enough nutrients from food.  Very few kids should actually use this.  Picky eaters may just get worse if they’re not encouraged to keep trying solids.  Pediasure might be a better option if your child is over 1 year old. Pediasure has more nutrients than toddler formula.

Probiotic- this formula has helpful bacteria to strengthen the gut and immune system.  It is meant for babies who are suffering from diarrhea. 

Related Posts:

1. Got (Goat) Milk? (May 20th, 2010)
2. What are some “true” organic dairy products? (April 8th, 2010)
3. Starting Solids (February 10th, 2009)
4. More concern over formula containers (April 24th, 2008)
5. Feeding Your Baby/Toddler Tips (October 18th, 2007)