After breast milk, formula is the second choice as the main food source for babies under 12 months old. Some formulations are nutritionally modified for the best benefit of children with special health problems.
Specially Designed
Milk Ingredients in formula milk can be varied, including fats, carbohydrates and proteins. This type of milk is usually prescribed by a pediatrician for groups of children with some special medical conditions and unable to use conventional formula.
Some reasons why babies are prescribed this type of formula include:
Severe allergy or intolerance to conventional formula.
Poor absorption of fat or carbohydrates.
- Have a serious digestive disorder .
Types of formula with special nutrients that mothers can buy include:
Low-lactose milk: is used for children who are lactose intolerant.
- Milk with adjusted protein content: In some formula milk, protein is divided into smaller units for easy digestion by babies. Even the proteins in some formulas are even replaced by amino acids, which are the single components that make up the protein chain. These products are often used when the baby has severe allergies, malabsorption, and digestive and metabolic disorders.
- Milk with modified fat composition: Consists of milk containing mainly triglycerides and reducing the fatty acid percentage. This type of milk is used for infants with liver and digestive problems.
Particularly for premature babies, due to their special nutritional needs, babies need a formula with more energy and minerals.
TIP: It is advisable to see a nutritionist and a pediatrician before giving your baby specially designed formula.
New additions
Formula milk is continuing to be researched for the purpose of being like nutrients in breast milk. In recent years, a variety of new ingredients have been added to formulas. These include:
Fatty acids such as DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and AA (arachadonic acid)
- Biologically active substances are good for the immune system
Nucleotides (DNA monomer): Natural breast milk has a rich source of nucleotides, a substance that plays an important role in the immune system of the digestive system. With such benefits, it has also been added to infant formula milk.
Top principles
Whether you choose breast milk or formula milk, you can't ignore the following basic principles:
Breast milk is the best source of food for babies.
Milk should be the main food source until the baby is 12 months old.
- Always choose a formula suitable for your baby's age and needs.
- If you think your baby is having problems breastfeeding, discuss it with your nutritionist or pediatrician before switching to another product.
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