When it comes to feeding an infant, the decision is clear and easy for some mothers, yet complicated and difficult for other mothers. A woman must first choose between breastfeeding or giving formula. If she chooses formula, there are many different brands and types to choose from. All formulas differ slightly in ingredients, and they vary in fat content as well.
Formula Definition
Formula, which is also called artificial baby milk (AMB), is a manufactured replacement for breast milk. Dr. Bill Sears, pediatrician and professor at the University of California at Irvine, states that breast milk is natural and more nutritious for babies since it has antibodies and enzymes that formula lacks. Yet some women choose not to breastfeed or are unable to breastfeed. Since babies cannot drink cow's milk, formula is the only safe alternative to breast milk. Formula generally has a cow's milk or soy base and is then fortified with vitamins and minerals.
Types of Formula
The most common type of formula is cow's milk-based formula. It uses protein from cow's milk along with vitamins and minerals. Soy-based formula, which comes from the soybean plant, is also popular. For babies who have digestive problems like diarrhea or severe constipation, there are hydrolyzed formulas. Dr. Sears explains on his website that hydrolyzed formulas are broken down more, with shorter chain amino acids and smaller fat and protein chains.
Source of Fat
Fat is necessary for the growth and development of healthy babies. Yet the source of fat in formulas can come from a variety of different ingredients. Dr. Sears states that the main source of fat in formulas is vegetable oil such as soy oil, palm oil or sunflower oil. Coconut oil is also used in some baby formulas. While these types of fat provide mainly unsaturated fats, some formulas also contain saturated fats. In addition, many formulas are not fortified with the essential fatty acids DHA and ARA.
Fat Content
The fat content in formulas varies based on brand and type, just as the source of fat does. Most artificial baby milks are primarily carbohydrates, with anywhere from 15 to 50 percent of calories from fat. The fat content of special formulas for underweight babies is generally higher. Additionally, the fat content can be split up between different types of fat. For example, Dr. Sears states that the fat content in Nestle Good Start formula is made up of about 47 percent palm oil, 26 percent soy oil, 21 percent coconut oil and 6 percent safflower oil.
Benefits of Fat
In addition to being essential for proper growth, fat in formula also has health benefits, depending on the type. Dr. Alan Greene, a pediatrician who specializes in infant feeding, states on his website that, since 2002, infant formulas have been fortified with the essential fatty acids DHA and ARA, which are naturally present in breast milk. He also explains that DHA and ARA help to increase brain and eye development and can also raise IQ levels.
