Infant formula is a healthy substitute for breast milk for feeding infants. Mothers who, can’t breastfeed or who have decided not to can feed formula to their babies. Infant formula is a manufactured food to feed infants and babies up to 12 months of age. Most infant formulas are made with cow’s milk that is treated to make it suitable for babies. Infant formulas include powders, concentrated liquids, and ready-to-use forms.
Different formulas are available to feed infants younger than 12 months old who are not drinking breast milk. While there are some differences, all infant formulas contain all the nutrients babies need to grow and thrive.
The following are different types of formulas:
Special formulas are available to feed babies with certain health problems. All pediatricians know them and will recommend one if your baby needs a special formula.
These are the least expensive formulas. You have to mix water to these formulas.
Pediatricians recommend that all infants be fed breast milk or iron-fortified formula for at least 12 months.
Babies have a slightly different feeding pattern, depending on whether they are breastfed or formula fed. Generally, breastfed babies tend to eat more often. Formula-fed babies may need to eat about 6 to 8 times per day.
Here is more about formula feeding:
A child can be fed infant formula until he/she is 12 months old. Pediatricians recommend not feed regular cow’s milk for children under 12 months old. After 12 months, the child should be fed only whole milk, rather than skim or reduced-fat milk.
All standard formulas contain 20 Kcal/ounce or 20 Kcal/30 milliliters and 0.45 grams of protein/ounce or 0.45 grams of protein/30 milliliters. Formulas based on cow’s milk are appropriate for most full-term and preterm infants.
Infants who are gaining weight with formula feeding usually don’t need additional vitamins or minerals.
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