Mothers, for sure, would only want the best for their babies. Mother’s milk will always be a limited supply and eventually, formula milk will be required to supplement or entirely take over the child’s needs for growth and development. But which formula will best suit the growing child’s needs in terms of nourishment?
There are so many choices out there it could become confusing. Just visit your favorite supermarket and you will find a wide array of toddler formula choices. Whole milk or cow’s milk or soy milk? Each formula offers its own advantages. Some have fortified their products to include essential nutrients. There are also formulas for the lactose intolerant. To get the best choice, one should have some basic knowledge of toddler formulas for growing up years.
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Go & Grow by Similac Non-GMO Milk Based Toddler Drink
No matter how healthy your little one’s diet is, he might still be missing some important nutrients. So, you need to supplement your toddler’s diet with a great formula as well. Fortunately, this formula will help bring balance to the diet of your little one with its cow milk as well as its OptiGRO nutrients.
The Go & Grow by Similac Non-GMO Milk Based Toddler Drink is good for toddlers who are growing, developing, and eating different kinds of food. You can supplement this formula especially since it is quite challenging to tell for sure if your little one is getting all the nutrients he needs each day.
This is a milk-based formula which contains over 25 essential minerals and vitamins to support the development and growth of kids. It also contains lutein, DHA, vitamin E, and more which are found in foods that kids do not normally like. It is a non-GMO formula which is also easy to prepare. Just mix it with water in your toddler’s bottle or sippy cup and serve.
Pros
- The milk-based formula which helps balance the diet of toddlers.
- Contains essential vitamin and minerals which support the growth and development of toddlers.
- The non-GMO formula which is easy to prepare.
Cons
- May cause an allergic reaction in some toddlers.
- It is quite pricey.
Enfagrow Toddler Next Step Toddler Milk Drink
Here’s another superb formula for you to consider as is promotes growth, improves the development of the eyes and brain, and supports the health of the immune system. It’s a nutritious formula that’s iron-fortified and will provide complete and balanced nutrition. This product also has a prebiotic blend along with ARA and DHA components.
The Enfagrow Toddler Next Step Toddler Milk Drink supports the health of the digestive and immune systems mainly because of its prebiotic content. It’s a next-step formula which you can give to your little one when he reaches the right age. This formula is suitable for toddlers aged 1-3 years old.
This product comes from a well-known and trusted brand which also manufactures other formulas and products for babies. It’s safe, nutritious, and tasty too, which is why a lot of moms and toddlers appreciate it.
Pros
- Promotes the health of the immune and digestive system.
- Supports the toddler’s growth as well as the development of the eyes and the brain.
- A healthy formula for little ones for 1-3 years old.
Cons
- Some customers feel like the nutrition is lacking.
Kabrita Non-GMO Goat Milk Toddler Formula
This formula will help your little one meets all the nutritional requirements he needs. The Kabrita Non-GMO Goat Milk Toddler Formula is easy to digest, and it doesn’t contain any genetically-modified ingredients. It’s a great alternative for toddlers who are allergic to cow’s milk. This formula has a mildly sweet and fresh taste which is why kids enjoy it. It also contains essential vitamins, minerals, and nutrients.
Pros
- Has a mildly sweet, fresh smell and taste.
- The nutritionally-complete formula which contains essential vitamins and minerals.
- Doesn’t contain any artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.
Cons
- Not suitable for infants under 12 months.
- May cause an allergic reaction in some toddlers.
Gerber Good Start Soy Infant and Toddler Formula
Some toddlers experience feeding issues such as gas, fussiness, and colic. This is usually because of their delicate digestive systems which are still developing. Fortunately, the Gerber Good Start Soy Infant and Toddler Formula can help reduce the chance of these issues especially if they’re caused by lactose intolerance or cow milk sensitivity. The non-GMO formula contains DHA and other essential nutrients as well.
Pros
- Non-GMO toddler formula for those who are lactose intolerant.
- Helps prevent gas which may lead to fussiness.
- Provides complete nutrition for toddlers.
Cons
- Some toddlers may not like the taste.
- Some customers don’t appreciate the formula’s packaging.
Baby’s Only Organic LactoRelief with DHA & ARA Toddler Formula
This formula contains just the right amount of essential fats and protein that’s also abundantly found in breast milk. It also contains carbohydrates and vitamins which help promote the growth and development of your toddler. The Baby’s Only Organic LactoRelief with DHA & ARA Toddler Formula, just like all the other formula products from the same brand, is designed to help your child thrive. It’s even suitable for picky eaters or those who have sensitivities to certain foods.
Pros
- Non-GMO formula with no palm oil or corn syrup.
- Gluten-free toddler formula which contains just the right nutrients needed.
- Suitable for toddlers who have food sensitivities.
Cons
- May cause fussiness in some toddlers.
- May cause constipation.
Earth’s Best Organic Toddler Milk Drink Powder
As toddlers grow and develop, they need enough nutrition. That’s what Earth’s Best Organic Toddler Milk Drink Powder can provide. It’s a healthy formula which comes from cows raised in organic farms and it has an appealing vanilla flavor. It will provide wholesome nutrition as it doesn’t contain any GMOs. What it does contain is omega-3 fatty acids, DHA, and other healthy components which help support the development of the eyes and the brain.
Pros
- Suitable for toddlers 1 years and above.
- Comes with a natural vanilla taste that most kids love.
- Contains prebiotics which supports the child’s immunity.
Cons
- Tends to clump together when mixed with water.
- It’s quite foamy when prepared.
Enfamil Nutramigen with Enflora LGG Toddler Formula
Here’s an easy-to-digest formula for your toddler. The Enfamil Nutramigen with Enflora LGG Toddler Formula is designed for toddlers aged 9 -36 months and it’s even suitable for those with cow’s milk allergies. It’s a hypoallergenic formula which will provide your little one with calcium and other important vitamins which are needed for growth and development. It has an improved taste and it also contains LGG culture which is a type of probiotic which supports the health of the digestive system.
Pros
- The hypoallergenic formula which contains calcium and the essential vitamins.
- Contains LGG Culture which is a type of probiotic.
- Supports the development of the brain because of the choline and DHA.
Cons
- Some issues with the product’s shipping.
- Some don’t appreciate the smell of the formula.
PurAmino Hypoallergenic Amino Acid Based Toddler Formula Powder
The PurAmino Hypoallergenic Amino Acid Based Toddler Formula Powder is also designed for toddlers who have severe allergies to cow’s milk or other food proteins. It’s also great for young children who follow an elemental diet because of certain conditions. These include short bowel syndrome, malabsorption, protein maldigestion, and more. It’s nutritionally-complete and it’s suitable for toddlers up to 24 months of age. The formula is also iron-fortified and can be given to toddlers suffering from lactose intolerance.
Pros
- The hypoallergenic formula which is fortified with iron.
- Contains ARA and DHA which are also found in breast milk.
- Scientifically designed for babies and toddlers with allergies.
Cons
- Contains MSG.
- Also, contains soy which is an allergen.
Happy Tot Organic Toddler Milk
This is an organic formula for toddlers that contain non-GMO ingredients. It’s made with specific nutrients to support the continuing development of children. The Happy Tot Organic Toddler Milk contains ARA and DHA which support the development of the eyes and the brain. It also contains calcium, iron, and other nutrients which will keep your little one happy and healthy.
Pros
- Contains DHA, ARA, calcium, and iron.
- The organic formula which supports toddlers’ growth and development.
- Doesn’t contain GMOs which are unhealthy.
Cons
- Contains a high amount of sugar.
- Doesn’t mix too well with water.
Munchkin Grass Fed Toddler Milk Drink
This formula contains milk from cows which were 100% grass-fed. Therefore, it contains high levels of vitamins A and E. The Munchkin Grass Fed Toddler Milk Drink also contains just the right balance of omega fatty acids. It’s a GMO-free product which includes lactoferrin, an essential component which boosts the immunity. It also contains lactose rather than other sweeteners which is a type of carbohydrate also found in breast milk.
Pros
- GMO-free toddler formula which is also antibiotic, rBGH, and grain-free.
- Contains ARA and DHA that are hexane-free.
- Suitable for toddlers aged 12 – 36 months.
Cons
- Contains soy which can cause an allergic reaction in some toddlers.
- Some customers don’t appreciate the taste.
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Who Needs Toddler Milk Formula?
Things could get messy when children start having solid foods. Often, toddlers start throwing away their meals which parents have patiently prepared. The kids are going through an adjustment phase where they need to get acquainted with solids. Other toddlers, on the other hand, may not even care about the new stuff. They may even go for days without solid nourishment.
Parents can start to worry if their kids are getting the proper or enough nutrition that will be needed for growth. Toddler formula can be the answer to their concerns as this supplement will ensure that the kids get all the necessary nutrients for growing children. It’s time to go shopping for the best toddler formula. A parent should be equipped with the proper information when making their choice. Parents should keep in mind that what they pick should be best for their child, health-wise
What are the Benefits of Toddler Milk Formula?
Feeding the child will now be less of a concern for mothers because formulas will ensure that the child will be getting all the required minerals and nutrients for development. They are now the next best alternative to mother’s milk. The nourishment for the baby in the first few months will depend entirely on mother’s milk.
This is essential and at such time, there is no substitute for mother’s milk. This is strongly recommended. The use of formula can be applied if the mother is not able to breastfeed the infant because of a personal or medical condition. But bear in mind that no formula can replicate the mother’s milk in every aspect.
Many formals offered now have been fortified with minerals like iron, calcium, vitamins, and more. Breast milk also contains these nutrients, but their presence is dependent on the mother’s diet. Nevertheless, these nutrients are essential in the child’s development. Many mothers find it embarrassing or reluctant to breastfeed the child in public, so they pump and appropriately store their breast milk for later use.
For this alone, the formula becomes a blessing to mothers as they can readily prepare the child’s food with no hassle and contamination. Pumped breast milk can be subjected to contamination. Also, the common issues for new mothers are sore nipples and unexpected leaks which can often subject them to discomfort and pain. Powdered formulas can offer them great relief. The convenience of powdered formula can also come into play when the mother is sick, too tired, or out of town.
The quality of breast milk will depend entirely on the mother’s food intake. There is an amount of caution on the part of the mother. Coffee, alcohol, and even tea must be regulated. But using formula could liberate the mother from such restrictions, except alcohol.
When the baby is sick and feeding needs to be monitored, the use of formula scores a bit higher than breast milk. Formula milk is not easily digested, and this will make the baby feel fuller for a longer period. This will give mom a respite because feeding the baby becomes less frequent.
The convenience of preparation also makes formula very practical. It’s easy to make and all that is needed is water, the powder, and some heavy shaking. You can have your toddler’s milk in less than a minute. Breast milk, of course, is the purest and best form in terms of nutrition but when not available, a formula is the next best thing. It contains as many vitamins and minerals as mother’s milk.
Another great thing about formula is that you can measure the intake of milk your little one needs. Too little will make your toddler irritable and too much will cause overfeeding. You cannot apply this measuring with breastfeeding. There are many formulas available and choosing the right one for the child is important.
Toddler formulas are usually made from cow’s milk or soybeans. Occasionally, there are those made from predigested proteins. If the child is allergic to cow’s milk, soy-based formulas can become a viable substitute. If the child has digestive problems, try a formula that contains predigested proteins. Consult your pediatrician on what type of formula will best suit your child’s needs.
The use of formula will also liberate the mother during feeding times. Any member of the family can take charge at feeding time. Unlike breastfeeding, mom needs not be “on-call” all the time and she can concentrate on other chores.
Formula milk has come a long way and has become the ultimate alternative to breast milk. They are nutritious and as important, convenient. All the necessary nutrients to make the child grow and thrive are now contained in formulas. All available formulas conform to safety standards and nutritional requirements.
Many of such formulas have also been fortified with nutrients, vitamins, and such. These include iron which can help prevent the occurrence of anemia and Bifidobacterium lactis, a probiotic that can help improve colic, lower food allergy risks, and reduce diarrhea.
The convenience of using formula is one of its greatest features. Toddlers can be given the formula anywhere, anytime. This becomes very important to working moms who cannot pump enough milk for use the whole day. This also becomes advantageous for moms who cannot breastfeed for any reason. Formula feeding can solve these mother and child issues. As stated earlier, formula milk takes longer to digest, thus making the child feel full for longer times. That means less feeding sessions.
What are Toddler Milk Formula?
It could be so ideal that a mom can breastfeed her baby or toddler regularly without pain and discomfort. If she can, then well and good. However, we are speaking ideally. Eventually or for some reason, toddler formula will be needed, either as a supplement or as a replacement.
During earlier times, cow’s milk was the norm to feed toddlers. But the nutrients in cow’s milk fall short on the nutrients that are found in mother’s milk. And such nutrients are essential for babies and toddlers. For those who are inclined to use cow’s milk, it’s best to consult your pediatrician. But toddler formulas are great alternatives and there is a variety out there that could best suit your child and your pocket.
There is no substitute for the liquid gold but in its absence, there are formulas that can work as well in giving your toddler the required nourishment. There are many advantages in using formula and many we have discussed earlier. Choosing the right formula will depend upon the child’s specific needs and age.
There are some things to remember when making the choice. Usually, parents will buy milk-based formula to feed their toddler or as a supplement to breastfeeding. These formulas contain soy and corn derivatives and it’s very possible that these crops have been grown from seeds which were genetically-altered. This means that they may contain GMOs. if you want to avoid these, choose formulas that are non-GMO and have proteins that are easier to digest.
Important Information to Know About Toddler Milk Formula?
Different infants and toddlers will need different formulas. Healthy and full-term babies usually start with cow’s milk-based formulas. Some may prefer the organic type which is also offered. Then there are the vegan parents who would choose formulas which are soy-based. Some formulas are also available for those who have digestive issues like colic and acid reflux.
Toddlers do well with cow’s milk protein formulas. Just to make their products healthier, producers have fortified their formulas with more vitamins and minerals.
Acid reflux usually is associated with older people but is also common in children as well. This isn’t really a problem if your little one is healthy and grows well. No treatment or formula change is needed. Nevertheless, formulas for acid reflux kids are also available.
There are also sensitive formulas which are lactose-free or may contain a minimum of such. This is recommended for those with gas problems or is suffering from colic. The composition of this formula closely mimics that of breast milk. Some of the nutrients found in this formula are can help reduce gas and colic symptoms. Any additions to the baby formula are regulated by the FDA which will require efficacy and proof of safety for each of the additives.
The calories in formulas were made to mimic those of natural breast milk.
For premature babies, a special formula will be required. This will contain additional calories which will help in weight gain. Furthermore, additional nutrients may also be in order including higher amounts of protein, sodium, calcium, potassium, phosphorus, zinc, copper, and iron. The pediatrician will be monitoring the baby’s progress to determine how long the child will be under this special formula.
Presently, there are about fifty store-brand formulas available in the market and all these have been approved for quality, safety, and nutritional content. All have followed the guidelines set by the FDA for nutritional standards. Compared to brand-name formulas, they are a lot cheaper. For some reason, most babies are started on brand-name formulas and parents tend to continue with these after leaving the hospital.
Studies have shown that there isn’t much difference in the child’s development when using either formula. And to think that the store-brands are just a third of the price of brand-name ones.
How Long Does a Prepared Bottle of Toddler Milk Formula?
Some precautions should be taken when giving formula milk to your child. A prepared bottle at room temperature can last for about an hour. In case it was warmed, keep it less than an hour. NEVER re-warm as this will increase the growth of bacteria which may be. This goes the same for leftover milk. Discard after an hour, never give this to the child since the act of drinking from the bottle will introduce the bacteria into the milk.
Ready-to-feed or concentrated formulas should be stored in the refrigerator and should be used within the next 2 days. Formulas prepared from powder should be placed in the refrigerator then used within the day. The contents of an opened powder formula container should be used within a month.
The Protein Content of the Toddler Milk Formula
Cow’s milk was originally intended for baby cows. However, its nutritional contents are less than what is found in mom’s milk. Adjusting the number of proteins, fats and carbohydrates will make cow’s milk an adequate substitute for mother’s milk. Iron and some vitamins and minerals are added to meet the child’s nutritional requirements. Despite all these additions, there are still many components in mother’s milk that can’t be replicated in formula.
Grandmothers and the like have always told us that babies and toddlers were fed during their times with tin-canned milk. Nurses then can even write recipes on how to make baby formulas at home. Of course, all these were wrong. With such feedings, babies and children became malnourished or sick. Logically, it’s no longer recommended.
Our present-day formulas sold commercially contain more nutrients than the past’s tinned-canned milk formulas. But not all contents could yield positive results. For example, some milk formulas contain more than the usual protein requirement, even against breast milk. Studies show that this excess during the first years of a child’s life could later lead to childhood obesity. To be safe, check the formula’s packaging and look at the protein content. Choose a formula with a lesser protein count.
Forms of the Toddler Milk Formula
Formulas usually come in three main forms and parents can choose which form is best suited for their little one’s needs. Ready-to-use formula is very convenient. No measuring or mixing is required, just open then serve. All hospitals use this form when feeding babies. It’s hygienic and safe. No more worries about contaminated water. The downside of this form is its brief shelf-life. They must be used within 48 hours upon purchase.
Powdered formula is the cheapest and most environment-friendly. It will not take much space in the pantry as compared to the other forms. The downside to powdered formulas is that preparation takes more time and the instructions for preparations need to be followed.
Liquid concentrate will require using equal parts of the concentrate and water. Instructions should also be adhered to. Against ready-to-use, this is cheaper, and it also takes up a lot less storage space. Against powdered, it’s more expensive.
Types of Toddler Milk Formula
Cow’s milk protein is purified from whole milk. Most toddler formulas have cow’s milk as the main ingredient. To make the digestion of protein easier, producers have altered the milk’s protein content. This type is typically the first formula that is given to the babies. Most babies and toddlers grow and thrive on this form.
Partially hydrolyzed protein formula contains proteins which have been broken down but still contain large milk proteins. They’re supposed to be easy to digest.
Extensively hydrolyzed protein formula contains proteins which have been broken down into small pieces making them a lot easier to digest. This is highly recommended by doctors for babies and toddlers who have difficulties in absorbing nutrients. Also, those who have multiple allergies or protein-induced proctocolitis. The formula is lactose-free too.
Amino acids formula has proteins that have been broken down into the smallest possible protein units which are called amino acids. This formula is recommended for those who have cow’s milk protein allergies or for those with milk protein-induced proctocolitis. It’s lactose-free too.
Soy formula is, of course, soy-based, where the plant proteins have been modified to make it easy to digest. This is perfect for children with vegan parents or for babies who have can’t digest cow-based milk formulas well. The soy formula is lactose-free and is highly recommended by doctors for children with metabolic disorders or temporarily after suffering from diarrhea.
Low-lactose or lactose-free formula is also available. The child’s inability to digest lactose, which is also known as lactose-intolerance, is a rare condition. For such, the doctor will usually recommend a formula which contains corn syrup rather than lactose. Some little ones may exhibit signs of transient lactose intolerance after a bout of diarrheal illness. In this case, there is no need to change formulas as the condition is only temporary.
The metabolic formula is recommended by the doctor when your child is sick and may require special nutrition. Finally, goat’s milk formula is fast becoming a popular choice because it contains high levels of natural nutrients that are essential to child growth and development. It also contains high levels of prebiotic oligosaccharides. These help in the digestive process by encouraging the probiotic. Prebiotic oligosaccharides promote good health since they encourage the growth of “good gut bacteria” which can directly limit the pathogenic bacteria in the intestines which can be harmful.
The Label of the Toddler Milk Formula
It’s a competition out there for formula manufacturers. These companies are selling the same product and the first ones who can come up with new components which are proven to be important in the child’s growth and development could be the winners. But with so many claims, it becomes confusing as to what formula truly is the best. Here are important features to consider when making a formula choice:
Consider probiotics and prebiotics. The former is the “good bacteria” that helps in keeping the health of the digestive system. Prebiotics, on the other hand, create a conducive environment for the growth of “good bacteria”. Both are already found naturally in breast milk. Some strains of these can be added to the formula during manufacturing.
Many studies have been conducted and such have suggested that probiotics may treat or prevent disorders like infectious diarrhea or atopic dermatitis in children. Some studies have also shown that probiotics can reduce the child’s risk of allergies which are food-related, asthma, and more. Presently, these benefits can manifest themselves if the probiotics are taken. Further studies are needed to prove if probiotics have long-term advantages.
Gold formulas have distinct fats added to them, specifically long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids. These are essential in the growth and development of the eyes and the brain. Breast milk already contains these fats naturally. It has yet to be proven, though, if adding these fats to the formula will work the same way as the ones which are naturally found in breast milk or if they get absorbed into the bloodstream effectively.
Special Types of Toddler Milk Formula
There can be cases where some toddlers with health issues can make regular toddler formulas wrong for them. Formulas for such cases can be purchased without prescriptions. But it’s best to consult with the doctor for medical advice. A correct diagnosis coupled with a treatment plan should be put into effect. Here are some special formulas for special cases.
AR or thickened formula where the AR refers to anti-regurgitation. This thickened formula is recommended for those who are experiencing acid reflux. It’s important to consult with the doctor if you think your little one has gastro-oesophageal reflux. The formula can reduce the volume and frequency of regurgitation but will not decrease the pain brought about by the condition. Not all children respond well to the formula. In such cases, medications may be required.
HA means hypoallergenic and this formula is recommended for those who have high risks of allergies or can’t breastfeed. The proteins found in the formula have already been broken down into smaller parts, making them easier to digest. However, the formula should not be given to babies and toddlers with diagnosed allergies to cow’s milk.
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Conclusion
Mothers will always want the best for their babies, especially during the early months when growth and development are at their peak. There is no substitute for mother’s milk. Unfortunately, the breastfeeding is limited. At some point, an alternative source of nourishment will be required, and toddler formulas are the best substitute for mother’s milk.
Presently, there is an abundance of toddler formulas out there and it will depend upon the parents (and their doctors) to choose which formula will best suit the requirements of a fast-growing child. The chosen formula should have all the needed nutrients to ensure that the child will grow up healthy. Other factors like convenience, form, special needs, and price may also affect the decision. Most of the brands out there are already considered safe because they comply with the standards set by the FDA. Mothers should take time to read about the essentials that make a formula stand out.
