When it comes to feeding your little one, finding the right formula can make a world of difference. For infants with specific needs, such as allergies, reflux, or general discomfort, specialized formulas are available to help alleviate these issues.
HYPOALLERGENIC Formula
This type of formula is made with pre-digested milk proteins to make digestion easier for babies who have an allergy to Cow’s Milk. It is only needed for babies with Cow's Milk allergies and it is not intended to address other potentially dietary issues, such as gas or fussiness.
TYPES OF HYPOALLERGENIC FORMULAS:
|
PARTIALLY HYDROLYZED |
This type of formula contains milk proteins that are only partially broken down. Therefore, it is not truly hypoallergenic & it is not suitable for babies who have cows' milk allergy. |
|
EXTENSIVELY HYDROLYZED |
The type of formula contains the smallest milk proteins. It might be suitable for babies with mild allergy symptoms. |
|
FREE AMINO ACID BASED |
This type of formula contains milk proteins that are split into their building blocks, amino acids. It might be suitable for babies who cannot tolerate an extensively hydrolyzed formula. It is more expensive than hydrolyzed formula. |
Source: Verywell Familly, 2022
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that hypoallergenic formulas only be used in infants with clear medical symptoms that would indicate the necessary use of a special formula. Babies with sensitivities may not need a hypoallergenic formula unless they have a true allergy.
COMFORT Formula
This type of formula contains cows' milk proteins that have already been partly broken down (partially hydrolysed), which is supposed to ease digestion and help prevent digestive problems, such as colic and constipation. However, according to the British National Health Service (NHS), there's no evidence for this.
Comfort Formula is not suitable for babies who have cows' milk allergy.
ANTI-REFLUX Formula
This type of formula is thickened with the aim of preventing reflux in babies (when babies bring up milk during or after a feed). It's available in pharmacies and supermarkets and it is suitable from birth. However, it's recommended you only use it on the advice of a health professional.
Source: NHS (2023)
WHAT YOU SHOULD REMEMBER
There are a variety of specialized formulas available for infants with specific needs, such as allergies, reflux or general discomfort, which might help alleviate these issues.
However, you must remember that as a parent, it is your responsibility to seek out specialized help from your healthcare professional to decide which is the most suitable formula for your baby.
