Breast or Bottle: Weighing the Options

Breast feeding or bottle feeding? It's a question every new mother has to answer. We've all heard the saying that breast feeding is best, but the facts are that breast feeding is not possible for everyone. Many parents today feed their babies formula, or at least partially; if you're one of the many, knowing what your options are is important.

If you're weighing your baby's feeding options, you'll want to start by talking with your child's pediatrician. This holds especially true if there are any issues with low birth weight, prematurity, allergies or other health factors. You'll also want to be aware that all commercial baby formula in the United States is monitored by the Food and Drug Administration. As a result, there are no major differances between various brands and generic types of baby formula; all are required to meet the same basic nutritional standards.

Types of Baby Formula

Modified Cow's Milk Formulas
This type of formula is the most common and is made from modfied cow's milk that has been enhanced with vitamins, minerals and healthy fatty acids. Some of these formulas also contain probiotics. The American Acedemy of Pediactrics(AAP) recommends cow's milk-based formulas that are fortified with iron for healthy, full-term babies who can tolerate lactose.

Lactose-free Cow's Milk Formulas
Lactose-free cow's milk-based formulas are an option for lactose intolerant infants. The lactose, or "milk sugar," is replaced with an alternate sweetener.

Soy Formulas
Soy-based baby formulas are common and designed for babies who can't tolerate lactose and for families who don't consume animal products. Soy based formulas also contain all the nutrients growing infants need, though are not any more nutritous than cow's milk formulas. The AAP doesn't recommend soy formula for most babies, however, unless a digestive condition exists. For babies with disorders such as galactosemia, where neither breast milk nor cow's milk formulas are tolerated, soy formula is vital.

Hydrolized Formulas
Hydrolized or "hypoallergenic" baby formulas are beneficial for babies with allergies or at risk for developing them. There are also specialized formulas for premature babies and babies with specific diseases. These special formulas should be used at the recommendation of the child's pediatrician.

Forms of Baby Formula
*No form is more nutritionally beneficial than the others.

Powered
Powdered baby formula has to be prepared and is resonably inexpensive. Choose powders if money is an issue or if you only use baby formula occasionally, as it has a long shelf life.

Liquid Concentrate
Liquid Concentrate is diluted with water and is popular for its ease of preparation.

Ready-To-Serve
Ready-to-serve formula is convenient but costly. It's good for trips and can be used day-to-day if you can afford it.

What About Organic Formula?

Cane Sugar vs. Lactose
There is some controversy over whether certain organic baby formulas containing cane sugar are a healthy choice. Organic cane sugar may be a desireable substitute for lactose if there is an intolerance, so again, speak with your pediatrician to help choose the organic formula that's right for your baby. There is no guarantee that organic baby formulas are healthier than conventional formulas, and they are not closer to breast milk than other formulas. They are, however, held to the same nutritional standards as conventional baby formulas.

Best Option for Your Baby

Consider your budget -- baby formula is a large expense if you bottle feed exclusively. You may feel better using a sterilized ready-to-serve rather than preparing the formula with water, or feel strongly about feeding your baby organic or animal-free. Whatever your preferences, choose an iron-fortified formula that meets your baby's needs, and realize that many specialized baby formulas are for specific conditions and not beneficial for babies without those health issues.