Best Formula for Breastfed Babies

Breastfeeding can be a challenging part of having a newborn. Even if you pump and give your child a bottle for breastfed babies, there are many reasons why you might need to supplement with formula. Whether you underproduce, are back to work  or simply prefer a more convenient choice, choosing the best formula for breastfed babies is important.

And if you’re new to parenting, you’ll want to add at least a can or two to your newborn checklist.

While every baby is a little bit different, Dr. Whitney Casares, MD, MPH, FAAP, suggests choosing a formula that’s FDA-approved. “This ensures they go through rigorous testing protocols before they ever hit consumer shelves. It also means they are held to the highest standards possible for contamination and expiration concerns.”

Dr. Casares recommends looking for a formula that has prebiotics. “Maintaining a healthy microbiome is of ultimate importance,” explains the pediatrician. She advises choosing a formula that has Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and arachidonic acid (ARA), which are the fatty acids found in breast milk.

“These positively influence neurodevelopment and immune function.”

To provide energy and good bacteria in the gut, Dr. Casares notes that Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMOs) are also critical formula ingredients. What to stay away from? High fructose corn syrup. According to Dr. Casares, older formulas used this ingredient more frequently, but it can still exist in some modern formulations.

Although this mother gives Bobbie her combo-fed baby, there are so many reasons to go with the eco-conscious baby brand. The best of all worlds, this organic formula is made to both American and European standards. Made without corn syrup, Bobbie contains both DHA and ARA, which help with baby’s growth.

With milk sourced from grass-fed Organic Valley cows and iron among other ingredients, you can feel good knowing you are giving your baby a high-quality product.

Bobbie’s subscription model is also incredibly helpful for busy parents. Since it’s customizable, whether your milk supply increases or decreases, they have you covered. They even offer a formula calculator so you can figure out how much your breastfed baby will need.

• Available at Target in-store
• The first FDA-regulated baby formula to receive the prestigious Clean Label Project Purity Award as well as Pesticide-Free Certification
• Excellent subscription model

• More expensive than drugstore brands

If an organic baby formula is a priority, you’ll love this one from Happy Baby Organics. Modeled after breastmilk, this formula is made for babies 0 to 12 months—so once you know if baby likes it, you can easily stick with it.

Per Dr.Casares’ suggestions, it contains DHA and ARA as well as prebiotics. Better yet, the packaging doesn’t have BPA, BPS or phthalates, making it an extra safe choice. In addition to lactose, the principal carbohydrate found in breast milk, it also contains soy—babies that might be sensitive to soy should use a different formula.

• Organic ingredients
• Great price
• No corn syrup
• Eco-conscious packaging
• Makes it easy to switch between breast milk and formula without upsetting bellies

• Some reviewers noted it was harsh on their babies’ stomachs

There are so many expenses when having a baby. If you can find a high-quality product for good value, go for it! Mama Bear’s formula powder is offered at an affordable price—you can save even more money with a subscription! This formula is strictly regulated by the FDA, meeting or exceeding all standards.

With DHA, omega-3 fatty acids, plus more than two dozen vitamins, iron and prebiotics—your child will get more than adequate nutrition.