I am well aware of how controversial and divisive the topic of infant feeding can be, among mothers. Some will tell you “breast is best;” others will tell you “fed is best.” But, I am not here to “strongly encourage” any particular feeding option over the other, whether it is infant formula feeding or breastfeeding. Nor am I here to play judge and jury.
In my opinion, there really isn’t any right or wrong choice here, just choices based on a parent’s own rationale and feasibility. As a parent, you can only do what works best for you and yours…not every mom can or chooses to do one or the other.
So to my fellow queens who decided to formula feed, this article is for you. Here is the best advice and information that I have learned over the years, through plenty of research and experience.
Types of Infant Formulas
First, there are three types of infant formula: (1) ready-made formula, (2) powder, and (3) liquid concentrate. I have, personally, used the ready-made formula and powder. The ready-made formula is pretty much pour-and-go. However, I am team powder all day.
Reasons To Choose Powder Formula
If you’re spending your own coins, the convenience of ready-made formula just isn’t worth the expense. Plus, both the ready-made formula and the liquid concentrate have to be refrigerated after opening. Having to reheat cold formula is definitely not convenient when you have a crying baby, who needed a bottle yesterday!
The powder does not have to be refrigerated and you can use room-temperature water to mix with it. No warming necessary! Your baby will drink room-temperature formula. Just pay close attention to the manufacturer’s measurements and storing instructions. And, never “stretch” the formula because adding too much water can cause water intoxication.
Of course, if the room the water is in is too hot or too cold, you will need to either heat or cool down the bottle accordingly…but, three babies later and that has never been the case for me. If you do, however, prefer to heat the formula, just be sure to place the bottle under hot tap water or in a container of warm to hot tap water, until it reaches lukewarm at best.
Do not heat the formula in a microwave, ever!
The Versatility of Infant Formula
Most infant formulas that moms try first are made from cow’s milk. This is actually my infant formula of choice.
There are also partially or exclusively hydrolyzed formulas, hypoallergenic formulas, soy-based formulas, and specialized formulas. Depending on your baby’s birth weight, allergies, iron level, sodium intake, diet, reflux capabilities, fussiness, tolerance, and more, you may have to consider one of these options.
Regardless, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends you choose a formula that is fortified with iron until the baby is 1 year of age, unless otherwise advised by your child’s doctor or nurse.
Must-Know About Infant Formula
- Regular cow milk and regular soy milk do not contain the same amount of nutrients as infant formula. So, please do not substitute the infant formula. It is not the same!
- If you want a budget-friendly option, buy the store brand or generic brand of formula, from a reputable company. Not only will it still serve all intent and purposes like the name brand, but honey, it will also save your pockets! I wish someone would’ve given me this advice 2 children ago.
- Also, stay far away from formulas that come from other countries. They may contain harmful chemicals, such as melamine. I’ve learned that all commercial infant formulas made in the U.S. are regulated by the FDA. Likewise, the FDA has nutrient specifications for infant formulas. Meaning, all U.S. formulas meet minimum guidelines for nutrition and safety, whether their generic or name-brand.
- The FDA advises against feeding homemade infant formula to babies, so you’ve been warned.
- Regardless of the formula you choose, always check the expiration dates.
- Throw out any formula that is dented, rusted, leaky, or otherwise damaged.
- Use infant formula until the baby is 1 year of age.
- Get some free samples of infant formula, if you have a chance. The hospitals I delivered my kids at gave me some, plus I signed up for free samples on a couple of websites as well…and I was extremely grateful!
At the End
Trust your motherly instincts and your child’s healthcare provider. You got this!
