There is no best type, only the right type
Choosing formula milk for infants often confuses many parents because there are too many products on the market. However, according to experts, no milk is "best" for all children, but it is important to suit each baby.
Jessica D'Argenio Waller - a newborn care expert at Consumer Reports (USA) - said: "The best formula is the type that babies tolerate well, is safe, budget-friendly and easy to find.
Experts from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommend that in cases where it is not possible to exclusively breastfeed, formula milk supplemented with iron is a safe alternative in the first year of life. In the US, formula milk products must meet strict nutritional standards, ensuring a full supply of essential nutrients for children.
The basic ingredients of formula include three main groups: carbohydrates, protein and fat. Among them, lactose, a natural sugar in breast milk, is often recommended as a priority. "Lactose intolerance in infants is very rare" - Dr. Bridget E. Young, Associate Professor of Pediatrics at the University of Rochester (USA), emphasized.
Read the ingredients carefully, avoid being led by advertisements
In addition to the main ingredients, many formulas add DHA, probiotics or other micronutrients to simulate breast milk. However, experts believe that this is not a decisive factor.
Additional ingredients are not mandatory. Most marketing messages about them often lack clear evidence," said Dr. Bridget E. Young.
In addition, parents need to pay attention to signs of intolerance in children such as excessive crying, diarrhea, rash or vomiting. At that time, they should consult a doctor to consider special types of milk such as hydrolyzed milk or specialized milk.
Dr. Natalie D. Muth - a pediatrician in the US - recommends that milk choices should be based on the specific health condition of children, and should not arbitrarily change milk many times.
Reading the ingredient label is also very important. Experts recommend focusing on the top ingredients in the list, as this is the largest proportion of the product.
In fact, most healthy children can tolerate standard formula milk from cow's milk well. Other options such as goat milk, soy milk or hydrolyzed milk should only be considered when there are specific indications.
