Choosing the Right Baby Formula: What New Parents Need to Know
A message from Kids 1st Pediatrics
Shopping for baby formula can feel overwhelming for new parents. You’re met with shelves of options, unfamiliar ingredients, and formulas designed for every possible infant need. Where do you even start? Don’t worry, Kids 1st Pediatrics, your trusted pediatric team in Riverside and San Bernardino Counties, is here to guide you through the process. Here’s everything you need to know to choose the right formula for your baby.
When you first pick up a can of formula, your instinct might be to read every single ingredient. And while understanding what’s inside is important, your main goal should be finding a formula that mimics the nutritional profile of breast milk. Look for formulas that contain DHA, ARA, calcium, iron, and key vitamins like A, C, and D. The good news is that every infant formula sold in the U.S. meets FDA standards, so you can rest easy knowing your baby’s getting the essentials. What you should pay closer attention to are the protein and carbohydrate sources, as they can vary depending on your baby’s unique needs.
Protein in baby formula generally comes in two forms: full-sized proteins and partially hydrolyzed proteins. Full-sized proteins typically come from cow’s milk or soy. These are labeled as milk protein isolate, nonfat milk, whey protein, or soy protein isolate. Cow’s milk formulas are the most widely used and are suitable for most infants. Soy-based formulas are ideal for babies with lactose intolerance or a milk protein allergy. Partially hydrolyzed proteins, on the other hand, are smaller proteins broken down to resemble those found in human breast milk. They tend to be easier on tiny stomachs, but they can be more expensive and are usually reserved for babies with digestive sensitivities.
As for carbohydrates, lactose is the most common source—and for good reason. It’s found naturally in breast milk and is easily digested by most healthy infants. We generally recommend starting with a lactose-based formula to see how your baby responds. However, if your baby is premature or has a sensitive digestive system, a lactose-free formula might be a better fit. These often contain alternative sugar sources like corn syrup solids, glucose syrup, or brown rice syrup. And no, this type of corn syrup is not the same as the high-fructose version you’re trying to avoid in your own diet.
Sometimes, babies need a formula tailored to a specific concern. If your baby is spitting up frequently, you may want to consider a formula with a thickening agent or one that contains partially hydrolyzed proteins to ease digestion. For babies showing signs of eczema, formulas with broken-down proteins have shown promising results in reducing symptoms. And if constipation is the issue, switching to a formula without palm oil can make a difference in easing bowel movements.
There are also more specialized formula options on the market today. Goat milk formulas are growing in popularity thanks to their anti-inflammatory properties, easier digestibility, and protein composition that’s closer to breast milk. Organic formulas are another great option for families looking to avoid synthetic chemicals, GMOs, and artificial additives. Every baby is different, so what works well for one child might not be the right fit for another.
When you do decide to switch or start a new formula, take it slow. Gradually mix the new formula with the old, increasing the amount over a few days while observing how your baby responds. Watch for any changes in mood, digestion, or feeding habits to make sure the transition is going smoothly.
No matter what your choice, know that you're not alone in this. At Kids 1st Pediatrics, we’re here to answer your questions, provide guidance, and support your baby’s nutrition journey every step of the way.
Book an appointment with Kids 1st Pediatrics today and let our caring team help you choose the best formula for your baby’s happy, healthy start.
Happy feeding!