Formula vs. Breast Milk: Taste, Nutrition and Choices
Formula vs. Breast Milk Have you ever wondered what formula tastes like breast milk? We have, and we’re here to tell you: it’s not even close. Breast milk exhibits a unique flavor that is hard to replicate, since it changes naturally depending on the mother’s diet.
However, I’m sure you’re probably thinking of Enfamil Enspire Infant Formula and Similac Pro-Advance. While these formulas have almost similar ingredients that make up breast milk, they don’t come close to the flavor profile of real breast milk.
They might have an orange flavor to them, but it’s not the same kind of flavor you’d find in your own mother’s body. Yet they offer almost similar nutritional benefits.
Choosing a Formula Closest to Breast Milk
There are multiple factors to consider when choosing a formula. First, you must decide what type of formula you want: do you want an organic or non-organic formula? Will your baby be allergic to soy or corn? Do you want a hypoallergenic formula? All of these are crucial aspects to think about.
Then there’s the question of whether or not your baby will tolerate cow’s milk protein, which is found in most formulas. Cow’s milk proteins can cause gastrointestinal distress for some babies, but if your baby has no issues with dairy, it shouldn’t be an issue for them.
Similarly, you should choose a baby formula close to breast milk. Selecting a formula similar in texture and taste to breast milk will ensure that your baby’s development and feeding habits are normal and consistent. Here are characteristics you will find in formulas that closely replicate breast milk.
- Lactose-based
Lactose-based formulas are usually the closest to breast milk but are expensive. These formulas have a higher percentage of lactose, like breast milk, for easier digestion.
They also contain proteins and fats that are easier for the body to absorb. They may also contain vitamins B6 and B12, often lacking in breast-fed babies.
The main drawback with these formulas is that they can be harder on your baby’s tummy when caught in their throat or windpipe (esophagus). Other drawbacks include constipation and gas from digesting too much lactose (which can cause painful bloating).
- Probiotics and prebiotics
For the formula to be close to breast milk, it should contain probiotics and prebiotics. These supplements contain microorganisms that play a key role in the immunity of your infant. For instance, probiotics maintain and improve good bacteria in your infants’ guts, while prebiotics are fibers that provide food to these bacteria.
- Fortified
Fortified formulas are the closest to breast milk because they contain additional nutrients that help your baby’s immune and digestive systems. These nutrients may include B12, DHA, ARA, L-Glutathione, and others.
These formulas are not necessarily better than regular formulas. They can even be less nutritious than regular formulas. However, they provide more essential nutrients that are lacking in regular formulas and can help your baby grow faster.
- Organic
Formula makers use the same ingredients as regular cow’s milk but mix them with water and then add vitamins and minerals. All formulas, however, are not the same. Some companies use artificial flavors, dyes, and other chemicals that harm your baby’s health.
So, make sure the formula you choose is made from cows fed an organic diet during their lifetime. This will ensure that the milk you give your baby does not contain harmful chemicals that could harm their development.
The easiest way to tell if a formula is organic is by reading the label. The USDA requires an independent agency to certify all organic baby foods.
- DHA and ARA
The best formula close to breast milk should contain fatty acids like DHA and ARA. These two fatty acids are critical for developing a baby’s brain and eyes and for the growth of its nervous system. DHA specifically is known to help develop the brain and eye muscles.
Ultimately, if you’re looking for a formula that’s close to what your baby gets in breast milk, check the nutrition label on the side of the package—it should tell you how much DHA or other fatty acids it contains (the numbers after “per” usually refer to grams). Your pediatrician can also help you find a formula with the right balance of nutrients.
Best Formulas that taste like Breast Milk
Ideally, there is no specific brand of formula that has succeeded in replicating breast milk. Many have tried but have fallen short. The taste and consistency of breast milk change naturally based on mothers’ diet and other reflex factors.
So, this is why most formulas on the market today are fortified with nutrients and vitamins to make them more similar to breast milk. Below are a few brands that will give you a similar consistency to breast milk. Take a look
Enfamil Enspire Infant
Enfamil Inspire Infant formula is a great choice for babies who are breastfed or who are heavy wetter’s. It closely replicates breast milk. The goal is to promote healthy maturation and growth.
This formula is hypoallergenic and contains no cows’ milk, soy, or wheat. It is also fortified with iron, vitamin D, and calcium. People with lactose intolerance can use the formula with confidence because it has such a minimal amount of lactose.
Since this formula has been tested and approved by the FDA, parents can feel confident that it will meet their baby’s nutritional needs. While providing him with all of the essential nutrients he needs for healthy growth and development.
Similac Pro-Advance Non-GMO
Similac Pro Advance is an advanced baby formula made for babies like yours.
It contains a complete range of nutrients for your little one’s healthy development, including iron and vitamin D for healthy growth and development.
This formula has been developed with an exclusive blend of proteins and carbohydrates that mimic breast milk. Making it perfect for babies on the go or at risk for digestive problems. This formula also contains added vitamins A & D3, which help promote good vision and immune system function in your baby.
Bottom Line
Formula vs. Breast Milk Ultimately, the formula you choose depends on what works best for your baby and the benefits you want from it. Keep in mind that you are not expected to recreate human breast milk.
You’ll be using a formula to provide the same nutrition your baby would get from breast milk, but with a little extra fat, protein, and calories for growth.
