What is Formula Milk?

Formula milk is formerly called Baby milk or Infant milk, produced from cow milk that has undergone some processing treatment to increase its nutritional value. Baby milk formula contains all the necessary Fats, Carbohydrates, Casein, and Whey (Protein) that are required for the proper growth and development of the babies. The USA FFDCA (Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act) explains formula milk as,

 "A food which purports to be or is represented for special dietary use solely as a food for infants because it simulates human milk or its suitability as a complete or partial substitute for human milk".

 Grow up formula is mostly dried milk with an extra amount of minerals and vitamins to make up for the deficiency of nutritional content in babies.

Reasons for Using Baby Formula

There can be many reasons why you choose Infant Formula milk over Breastfeeding and what formula is best for babies.

1. The first and the most crucial reason for choosing milk formula is the mother’s health. Sometimes, the mother suffers from severe health problems such as Cancer, TB, and HIV etc. In this case, it is prohibited to breastfeed the child due to health complications. Moreover, she is using some kind of drugs (illegal or related to medication).
2. The second reason is the health of the baby, as he is born with some sort of genetic defect such as galactosemia. In this case, he can’t digest his mother's milk and will need Lactose free formula milk for proper growth and development.
3. The third reason is that most mothers cannot breastfeed their babies due to many societal pressures. In that case, the baby is lacking in nutritional value. To complete the necessary minerals and vitamins requirements most mothers choose formula milk along with breastfeeding. 
4. Another reason for choosing best baby milk over breast milk is that the baby is an orphan or adopted by the other parents. In this case, it is obvious to use infant formula milk for the proper development of the baby.

Formula Milk vs. Breast Milk

It is scientifically proven that baby formula milk has more nutritional content than the mother’s breast milk. The nutritional content of the mother’s milk is continuously changing after birth while the content of the Formula milk remains constant. Besides that, babies need more vitamins, minerals, and amino acids during the first two months. Baby formula contains all the essential amino acids for the proper growth of the baby’s body and mind. 

 Moreover, the caloric content of breast milk is 550 kcal/L, while formula milk has a total caloric content of 670 kcal/L, hence providing more energy for the growth of infants. 

Formula Milk vs. Cow’s Milk

Most of the women decided to use cow milk instead of formula milk. They argue that cow milk is thinner than formula milk and is more suitable for their babies. But the fact is that cow milk contains high levels of proteins and minerals which can cause stress to the kidneys of the baby. Moreover, cow’s milk disrupts the lining of the stomach and leads to diarrhea and high fever. Cow’s milk also lacks iron, and vitamin C, which causes anemia in babies. That's why mothers should use the most recommended formula milk instead of cow’s milk because it is not good for growing babies. 

Nutritional Value of Formula Milk

Most mothers do not opt for milk powder for their babies as they are unaware of the composition and benefits of baby formula. Formula milk is made up of six components including minerals, vitamins, fats, proteins, carbohydrates, and other nutrients. Some companies also use additives such as prebiotics, probiotics, LCPs, and beta-carotene to enhance the nutritional content for the proper growth of babies. Formula milk contains,

Probiotics or Prebiotics: These help the babies in the production of good bacteria in the gut and maintain proper bowel movements. Probiotics maintain the natural microbiota of the baby.

 Beta-Cartonenes: These are the common source of antioxidants and vitamin A, helping the baby from harmful chemicals.

 Zinc: Zinc is very crucial for neuron development in babies. A lack of zinc can lead to a decrease in the communication of neurons and can also cause mild anemia in babies. 

Long Chain Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids (LCPs): LCPs used in the making of formula milk are important for the proper development of the nervous system in babies. 

 Vitamin B: Vitamin B used in the formation of infant milk formula helps babies to stay active, increase their energy levels, and reduce fatigue. 

 Hence, as discussed above powder milk contains all the essential components for a baby’s proper development. So, for new moms, there is nothing to worry about or think twice about using grow up formula.

How To Prepare Formula Milk

There are a few steps you need to follow while preparing baby’s feeding bottle.

• Always read the instructions on the container of the milk jar before preparation.
• You must know the exact quantity of water and formula powder. 
• First, boil the fresh water and leave it to cool down to room temperature.
• Now measure the amount of water you need and pour it into a sterilized bottle.
• Add the exact quantity of scoop of formula powder. Do not use less or excess powder as both can be dangerous to your baby.
• Always use the spoon that comes with the container. After using, close the lid of the container properly.
• Tight the cap of the bottle properly and shake it well so that the powder completely dissolves in water. 
• Check the temperature of formula milk by placing a few drops on your wrist so that it won’t be too warm for your baby.

Hygiene Steps and Precautions

There are a few hygiene steps you need to follow for the sake of the health of your baby,

• Wash and dry your hands before the process.
• Always wash and sterilize the boiling pot and feeding bottle before use.
• Read the instructions and follow the same steps while preparing the formula. 
• Always use the exact amount of baby milk powder because less powder gives less nutrition to the babies while excessive use of powder can lead to constipation and sometimes an increase in weight.
• If you have a history of obesity in your family, then give your child reduced fat (2%) milk. 
• If you are going out, then place the boiled water and powder separately and prepare it just before use.
• If your baby did not finish his or her milk bottle then throw it away after an hour.

Choose Best Formula Milk in Pakistan

The best formula milk brands in Pakistan are Morinaga, Nestle Bunyad, Meiji, Lactoclub, Nido, Nangrow, and Similac. These kinds of formula milk contain all the nutritional value required for a baby’s growth. Now, you do not need to go store to store to find out the best formula milk for your baby, when Bebambi is here for you. Bebambi offers a huge variety of formula milk with swift delivery (60 minutes) in Lahore and 2 to 3 days delivery time all over Pakistan. Enhance your experience by downloading the BeBambi app Stay informed with the latest updates on exclusive offers and discounts.