Often, long before entering the maternity hospital, a woman learns that there is no food healthier, more enjoyable and optimal for a baby than breast milk. But sometimes it happens that breastfeeding either doesn’t work out from the very beginning, or you have to give it up over time for various reasons. In such cases, formula milk comes to the rescue of modern mothers - an artificial substitute for breast milk, which is very close in composition to it.
The world's first formula for artificial feeding was created by Swiss-born pharmacist Henri Nestlé in 1867. Experimenting with the ratio of cow's milk powder, wheat flour and sugar, he invented a product for infants, which he called Henri Nestlé's Milk Flour. His invention was a huge success in Europe, but Arnie considers his main achievement to be that the mixture saved the life of the baby of his factory worker, whose body did not accept either mother’s milk, goat’s milk, or cow’s milk.
Dairy milk is based on cow's or goat's milk, from which difficult-to-digest animal protein is specially excluded. Such mixtures are called adapted; they are primarily recommended by pediatricians if natural feeding is not possible.
There are many types of milk formulas in the modern variety of baby food. They are distinguished:
1. by type of base milk:
Dairy-free formulas differ from dairy formulas mainly in only one component: whey is replaced with soy protein. It is low-allergenic, nutritious and is usually easily absorbed by the baby's maturing digestive system.
Any infant formula (and especially therapeutic and prophylactic formula) should be prescribed only by a pediatrician or attending physician.
You should not immediately buy a large box of formula - it may not be suitable for your baby. It’s better to take the minimum amount – enough for a week. During this time, it will become clear whether the child will continue to be “friends” with her.
The transition from GW to IV should happen smoothly. You cannot cut off your breasts abruptly and bottle-feed only. The mixture should also be changed smoothly (unless, of course, the refusal of the previous one is associated with milk protein intolerance, vomiting and allergies):
| Introduction day |
Volume of formula per feeding |
Number of daily appointments |
Daily volume of mixture |
| 1 |
10 |
1 |
10 |
| 2 |
10 |
3 |
30 |
| 3 |
20 |
3 |
60 |
| 4 |
50 |
5 |
2500 |
| 5 |
100 |
4 |
400 |
| 6 |
150 |
4-5 |
600 – 750 |
Few people know that the age standards for the use of infant formula indicated by the manufacturer on the packaging are too high for 90% of children. Blindly following the instructions ensures that artificial milk sells out twice as fast, which means parents buy it twice as often. But the hit to your wallet isn't the worst thing. Constantly overfeeding a baby causes constipation, regurgitation, excessive weight gain now and pancreatitis, diabetes and obesity in the future. The calculation of the volume of formula per feeding and the total amount per day should be carried out by a pediatrician, based on the weight of the baby, and not his age in months:
For low birth weight or premature babies, the calculation principle will be different.
If the child: 
In general, the composition of infant formula is almost identical. But sometimes a product from one company causes an undesirable reaction in a baby, while a product of another company with a similar composition completely satisfies his body. That is why the choice of mixture must be taken seriously and very responsibly.
The packaged dry mixture is stored at a temperature of 20-22°C, the temperature for open storage should be 5-10°C lower. In this case, the jar should be placed in a dry place and ensure that it is carefully closed. The contents of the container should be used within 2-3 weeks. After this period, it is better to please the cat with the remainder, if any, rather than continue to feed it to the baby.
| Appearance of packaging |
Brand name | Manufacturer country | Assortment of baby formulas | Composition of mixtures | |||
 |
Alfare (Nestle) (Alfar) |
Netherlands | Alfare Alfare Allergy, Alfare Amino Therapeutic hypoallergenic mixtures containing components for restoring damaged mucous membranes, reducing inflammatory processes, increasing immunity |
The mixtures are enriched with vitamins and mineral salts, fish oil, and nucleotides. | |||
 |
Baby | Slovenia | The manufacturer offers adapted products 1 (0-6 months), level 2 (6-12 months) and universal (0-12 months), with prebiotics | The composition includes milk powder (skimmed), lactose, vegetable oils, including palm, soy and rapeseed. The product is mineralized and fortified |
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 |
Bonavi | Czech | The manufacturer offers mixtures of levels 1, 2 and 3 with goat milk | Ingredients include goat milk powder, corn starch, sunflower and rapeseed oil, prebiotics, omega-3 fatty acids, nucleotides, a complex of minerals and vitamins |
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 |
Enfamil (Enfamil) |
Netherlands | A wide selection of adapted mixtures (including hypoallergenic, low-allergenic and anti-reflux), as well as level 2 and 3 mixtures, | The composition includes skim milk, vegetable oils (including palm oil), rice starch, glucose syrup, ARA and DHA acids, mineral and vitamin complex. Some contain only whey protein and skim milk protein instead of milk |
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 |
Friso (Friso), Frisolac, Frisopep, Friso soy, Friso vom |
Netherlands | A good range of products of levels 1, 2, 3 and 4 (dairy drinks from 3 years). There are hypoallergenic, medicinal, soy protein and night formulas | Whey (demineralized), vegetable oils, incl. rapeseed and palm, skimmed milk powder. Contains fish oil, minerals and vitamins. Milk is not included in medicinal and hypoallergenic products. Some contain glucose syrup, prebiotics, nucleotides |
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 |
Hipp (Hipp) | Germany | Small selection of milk formulas 1 – 3 levels | Organic skim milk, partially demineralized whey, vegetable oils, vitamin-mineral complex, etc. Some species contain prebiotics (lactic acid bacteria) |
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 |
Humana | Germany | Large selection of multi-level and medicinal mixtures. The range includes: for premature babies, with prebiotics, dairy-free, anti-reflux, anti-colic, hypoallergenic, liquid | The composition contains skimmed cow's milk (in some it is replaced by milk protein hydrolyzate/lactose/soy protein isolate), various types of polysaccharides, a mixture of fats, including rapeseed and palm oil. Saturated with mineral and vitamin complex |
|||
 |
Karbita | Holland | Three types of goat milk mixtures - 1, 2, 3 levels - in different volumes - 400 and 800 grams | The components include lactose, concentrated goat milk whey proteins, whole milk powder, a complex of vegetable fats (including palmithiol triglyceride), saccharides, and corn starch. There are fish oil, vitamins and minerals, bifidobacteria |
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 |
MD Mil | Belgium | Four goat milk products – Kozochka 1, 2, 3 and Standard | Goat milk, partially skimmed, oils, including palm oil, vitamins, minerals, etc. |
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 |
Milupa | Poland | The assortment includes 5 types of milk formulas for different ages, packaging – 350 and 600 g | Whey and skim milk, vegetable oils - rapeseed, palm, sunflower, coconut, saccharides, 13 minerals and 13 vitamins, fish oil, other additives |
|||
 |
NAN (Nestle) | Netherlands | A good selection of formulas of different generations: anti-colic, lactose-free, hypoallergenic, for premature babies, against colic, regurgitation and constipation, fermented milk |
Whey and lactose, skim milk/whey protein/lactose only/whey powder only, vegetable oils (including palm olein), mineral and vitamin complex, etc. |
|||
 |
Nestogen (Nestle) |
Switzerland | Milk formulas 1st – 4th generation, packaging 350 and 700 grams | Contains lactose, skim milk, vegetable oils, prebiotics, milk fat, saccharides, vitamin and mineral complexes |
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 |
Nuppi | Three types of mixtures – 1, 2 and 3 levels | The basis of the product is skim milk powder, vegetable oils, including palm oil, calcium carbonate, vitamin premix, mineral compounds |
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 |
Nutrilak | Russia | A wide range of milk formulas: for premature babies, anti-reflux, hypoallergenic, fermented milk, lactose-free and soy | The basis is milk sugar and fat/whey and whole milk powder and skim milk/soy protein and glucose syrup/milk fat and protein, vegetable oils (DOES NOT CONTAIN PALM!), corn starch, saccharides, mineral salts, fish oil, vitamins. Depending on the type, it may contain lactic acid bacteria, bifidobacteria |
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 |
Nutrilon (Nutricia) | Poland, Netherlands, | A large selection of formulas for healthy, premature babies with a tendency to allergies and digestive problems. Packages 400, 600, 800, 1000 g |
Whey, lactose, skim milk, saccharides, vitamins, fish oil, minerals, etc. | |||
 |
Semper (Semper) |
Sweden | Milk formulas for healthy children and for children with impaired digestion | The ingredients include skim milk, lactose, cream, vegetable oils (including palm oil), mineral compounds, fish oil, and vitamins. There are mixtures with bifidobacteria |
|||
 |
Similac (Similac) |
Ireland, Spain | A large line of dry milk formulas for healthy babies and therapeutic ones (hypoallergenic, anti-reflux, for low birth weight and premature babies, low-lactose, lactose-free (based on soy protein)) Packages – 900, 700, 400, 375, 350 g |
The main components of the base mixtures are skim milk, lactose, vegetable oils (DOES NOT CONTAIN PALM), concentrated whey protein, saccharides, mineral compounds, ARA-acid, vitamins, bifidobacteria | |||
 |
Valio Baby | Finland | Three types of milk formulas: 0-6, 6-12 and 12+ | The mixture does not contain palm oil! The main components are whey, normalized milk, vegetable oils, lactose, saccharides, vitamins, minerals, probiotics, etc. |
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 |
Agusha | Russia | Dry and liquid milk and fermented milk mixtures up to 6 and up to 12 months | The basis of “Original” dry mixes is skim milk, vegetable oils (palm oil too), concentrated whey protein, lactose, citric acid as a preservative, minerals, and a complex of vitamins. “Gold” is supplemented with prebiotics. Liquid mixtures (fermented milk) contain nucleotides, probiotics, bifidoacidophilus starter, whole milk, water, cream, a mixture of vegetable oils (including rapeseed and palm oil), concentrated whey protein, and a mineral-vitamin premix. |
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 |
Amalthea (Bibikol) | New Zealand | "Amalthea" - goat milk powder TM "Bibikol" | The product is not an adapted breast milk substitute; it is recommended from 3 years of age. Contains only goat milk powder, iron and vitamins |
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 |
Grandma's basket |
Russia | Adapted formulas for healthy babies, anti-reflux and lactose-free |
Whey, mixture of vegetable oils (contains palm), skimmed milk powder, saccharides, lactose, minerals, fish oil, vitamins, etc. |
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 |
Bellakt | Belarus | A wide range of milk and dairy-free formulas for feeding healthy babies, incl. and preventive purposes (fermented milk, with bifidobacteria), medicinal mixtures (soy, low-lactose, lactose-free, anti-reflux, for premature babies) |
Skim milk, milk sugar, concentrated whey proteins, vegetable oils (contains palm olein), vitamins, mineral salts, etc. In therapeutic and prophylactic formulas, the milk component changes |
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 |
Vinny | Russia | Universal formulas for nutrition from 0 to 12 months | Whey powder, mixture of oils (including palm oil), skimmed milk powder, minerals and vitamins |
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 |
Karapuz | France | Milk and fermented milk powder from 0 to 12 months. | Demineralized whey, a complex of vegetable oils (palm oil is also included), skimmed milk powder, saccharides, lactose, vitamins, minerals, etc. |
|||
 |
Baby (Nutricia) | Russia | A small line of mixtures for basic nutrition (0-6), with cereal flour to expand the diet (6-12) and baby milk (after one year) | Whey, vegetable oils (a mixture, including palm), skim milk, prebiotics, concentrated whey proteins, mineral compounds, fish oil, vitamins, etc. | Ukraine | The line of formulas is represented by three types of food for children who are not gaining weight well, from 3 months: with rice, buckwheat and oatmeal |
Whole cow's milk, rice flour, powdered sugar, vegetable oils. Enriched with vitamins and minerals. NO PALM OIL |
 |
Baby (Nutricia) | Russia | A small line of milk and fermented milk mixtures from 0, from 6, from 12 and from 18 months | Demineralized whey, a mixture of 5 vegetable oils, skim milk, prebiotics, concentrated whey protein, lactose, a complex of micro- and macroelements, vitamins, fish oil. The composition of fermented milk is supplemented with ferment of lactic acid and bifidobacteria DOES NOT CONTAIN PALM OIL |
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 |
Little Khorol | Ukraine | The manufacturer produces only three mixtures: 0-6, 6-12 and 12+ months | Cow's milk (fat and sugar are normalized), milk sugar, molasses, vegetable oils. Enriched with vitamins and minerals PALM OIL IS NOT INCLUDED IN THE COMPOSITION |
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 |
Mamako | Serbia | The manufacturer offers three levels of mixtures in packaging of 400 and 800 grams | Demineralized goat whey, vegetable oils (palm and palm kernel are also included), lactose, skimmed goat milk, mineral salts, ARA and DHA acids, prebiotics and vitamins |
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 |
Materna | Israel | The manufacturer produces 8 formula formulas: classic, with a high content of nutrients, anti-regurgitation, lactose-free, for low weight children, for healthy sleep, soy-based and kosher formulas. 0-6 months, 6-12, 12+, 2+ |
Casein, whey protein concentrate, minerals, fat component, β-palmitate, omega-3 and omega-6, vitamins C and E. The composition of medicinal mixtures differs |
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 |
Nanny (Bibikol) | New Zealand | The range includes a classic mixture, with prebiotics and after a year | The main components are goat milk powder (whole), whey protein (at least 20%), fat of vegetable and animal origin, represented by saturated and unsaturated fatty acids, lactose, minerals and vitamins. NO PALM OIL |
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 |
Subject | Russia | Several milk formula formulas: classic. hypoallergenic |
Lactose, vegetable oils, starch, whey proteins, glucose syrup, vitamins, mineral compounds |
Whey, which is the basic component of any milk formula, is produced by only two (!) factories around the globe. One is in Europe, the second is in the USA. Therefore, the manufacturer’s stories about the unique bioqualities of the product are just a marketing ploy.
Mothers should also know that buying domestic formula is safer. If the production of “native” ones is monitored from the moment of procurement of raw materials to wholesale distribution, then batches of imported ones are selectively certified, and quality control of all products is not carried out.
If for some reason you decide to feed your child artificial formula, the question will naturally arise: “Which formula to choose, how do they differ and which formula is better?” In this article we will look at the main types of formulas for artificial feeding of children in order to understand this issue once and for all.
Cow's milk has been used for artificial feeding for thousands of years BC. And in India, goat's milk has always been used for these purposes. In the 19th century Doctors realized that cow's milk and the milk of other animals differed significantly from breast milk, so attempts began to create milk formulas whose composition was at least vaguely similar to human milk. At first, they simply diluted the milk and added various vitamins and nutrients. But feeding these mixtures for some reason caused high infant mortality. After the discovery of the method of pasteurization and sterilization, these mixtures began to undergo heat treatment and bacteriological control. Mortality from infectious diseases decreased, but due to heat treatment, all nutrients (especially proteins) and vitamins in milk were destroyed. Researchers began to think about how to create a mixture whose products would help the baby cope with the digestion process and normalize it. Gradually, all technologies for the production of mixtures were improved: proteins are specially processed, minerals and vitamins are introduced artificially. Since cow's milk was used to prepare almost all mixtures, it is processed in such a way that it contains a certain amount of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates.
In almost every country in Europe, Asia, Russia, and America, there are companies specializing in the production of formula for artificial feeding of babies. Unfortunately, Russian products are not so widely represented. Each of these mixtures has its own advantages and disadvantages. We can only say one thing: they are all different.
There are a great variety of breast milk substitutes on the shelves of baby food stores and pharmacies, approximately 90 different types and names of formulas from Russian and foreign manufacturers. The first formula for artificial feeding appeared in Russia relatively recently - in the 1990s, of course, at that time the formulas were still unadapted. From that moment on, a real boom in artificial feeding began, and year after year this market is replenished and replenished.
In addition to formulas as the main food product, a large number of products have appeared created for feeding babies, which has made life much easier for parents and saved their time.
There are many different classifications of human milk substitutes, the main thing is to know what exactly you want from this mixture and for what purpose you are giving it to your baby.
Firstly, for the growth and development of a baby, protein is required, which is a building material for the body’s cells, so you need to choose a mixture with the optimal amount of protein, which is in a state necessary for normal digestion and absorption. It is best if the mixture contains whey proteins.
Secondly, in order for the mixture to be high in calories and for the child to better absorb fat-soluble vitamins, it needs to contain fats, preferably vegetable ones.
Thirdly, the main carbohydrate in human milk is lactose, therefore this ratio should also be maintained in the formula for a healthy baby, although it is quite acceptable for the carbohydrates in the mixture to be represented only by lactose. It is acceptable if the mixture also contains glucose, but never buy mixtures that contain sucrose in their carbohydrate composition. Microelements in the mixture may be different.
The only thing you need to remember: if your baby does not have anemia, then never give him a formula with a high iron content, because this can affect the baby’s stool, regurgitation may appear or intensify, and dysbacteriosis may develop, since iron is a nutrient environment for the development of pathogenic bacteria in the intestines.
Previously, there were still unadapted formulas, but now there are practically none left and no pediatrician will prescribe an unadapted formula to a baby. Adapted mixture- this is a mixture in which all nutrients are in the same quality and quantity as in human milk. IN partially adapted mixtures only some components are similar in quantity to human milk. Well, an example of the simplest non-adapted mixture is ordinary diluted cow's milk with added sugar. Despite the apparent civilization of our population, in some villages and villages this method of artificial feeding is still preferred.
Cow's milk is used to produce adapted mixtures. During industrial production, some changes occur in all the ingredients of cow's milk so that it is as close as possible to breast milk. They artificially reduce the amount of protein and calcium salts, change the fat composition by introducing a certain amount of unsaturated fatty acids, and increase the amount of milk sugar (lactose), because it is lactose that stimulates the development of beneficial bifid flora in the baby’s intestines. Adaptation of the quantity and quality of protein comes down to the introduction of whey proteins into the mixture. Unlike casein, which is found in large quantities in cow's milk, whey proteins form a more digestible curd in the stomach, and their amino acid composition is much closer to human milk. Adaptation of the fat ingredient is that milk fat is completely or partially replaced with vegetable oils - sunflower, corn, soybean, palm, etc. Due to this, the amount of such necessary essential polyunsaturated fatty acids in the mixture increases. Again, this ensures that the formula is as close in composition to human milk as possible, and the baby receives the nutrients it needs for normal growth and development in sufficient quantities.
Coconut oil is a source of medium-chain fatty acids, sunflower and corn oil are a source of linoleic acid, and soybean oil is a source of linolenic acid. To adapt carbohydrates, lactose is added to the mixture. Any adapted mixture includes all microelements in a qualitatively and quantitatively balanced state and the necessary vitamins. The total amount of mineral salts in adapted mixtures is less than in cow's milk. This is significant because the baby has not yet developed the excretory function of the kidneys. And a smaller amount of salts avoids the retention of osmotically active ions in the body of a child during infancy.
Besides, most adapted mixtures contain carnitine, taurine, infetol. Taurine is a very important amino acid that is not part of proteins, but is present in human milk in free form. The baby needs these substances for the construction of the retina, proper development of the brain, and the normal process of digestion and absorption of fats and carbohydrates. Examples of adapted mixtures include “Nan” (Nestlé, Switzerland), “Pre-HiPP” (HiPP, Austria), “Puleva-1” (Abbot Laboratories, USA), “Nutrilon” (Nutricia, Holland) , "Pikomil-1" (KRKA, Slovenia), "Heinz" (Heinz, USA), "Enfa-mil" (Mead Johnson, USA), as well as "Samper" (Sweden), "Mamex" (International Nutrition Co., Denmark), SMA (White Nutrition Inc., USA) and some other mixtures.
Less adapted for consumption are “casein formulas”. Their main difference from adapted mixtures is that they are produced on the basis of powdered cow's milk, the base protein of which is casein, but without the addition of demineralized whey. Thus, in terms of protein composition, such mixtures differ from breast milk, but in terms of other main components - carbohydrate, vitamin, mineral and fat composition - they are very similar to the original. “Casein formulas” include mixtures such as “Similac”, “Similac with iron” (Abbot Laboratories, USA), “Im-press” (Kruger, Germany), “Enfamil” (Brie-stohl-Myers, USA) and etc.
Regarding partially adapted mixtures, then they lack demineralized whey, and the fatty acid composition (the quantity and quality of essential fatty acids) is not accurately balanced. Not only the necessary lactose, but also sucrose and even starch are used as a carbohydrate ingredient in such mixtures. Partially adapted mixtures include “Malyutka”, “Malysh” (Russia), “Detolakt” (Baltic Dairy Plant, Ukraine), “Milumil” (“Milupa”, Germany), “Milazan” (Germany). Compared to highly adapted mixtures, representatives of this group are cheaper.
Well, non-adapted mixtures include dry mixtures “Krepysh” and “Health”.
It must be remembered that when artificially feeding, the child’s need for calories, proteins, fats and carbohydrates depends on the milk formula that he consumes.
When using adapted formulas, the amount of protein in a baby's diet is 2.2 g/kg of the baby's body weight. The need for carbohydrates is 12-14 g/kg, and the need for fats up to 4 months - 6.5-6 g, from 4 to 9 months - 6-5.5 g, from 9 months to 1 year - 5.5- 5 g. Well, the optimal ratio of proteins, fats and carbohydrates should be 1:2:4. The calorie content when feeding with adapted formulas is similar to that during natural feeding, but if feeding is done with non-adapted formulas, then the calorie content increases by 10%.
On the domestic market, fermented milk mixtures are represented by the “Malyutka” and “Agu-1” mixtures. Among foreign manufacturers, we can note “Lactofidus” (France), “Pelargon” (Switzerland). “Lactofidus” and “Pelargon” are produced in the form of a powder that must be dissolved in water, not milk. Some parents believe that the acidophilus mixture can be replaced with kefir, but this is incorrect. Kefir belongs to complementary foods, and not to the main food the baby's food product. Acidophilus mixtures are very beneficial for the baby's health, especially if they are adapted. Such mixtures are enriched with cultures of acidophilus bacteria, bifidobacteria and other beneficial microorganisms. They fight harmful bacteria that enter the baby's intestines from the outside, and colonize free spaces so that pathogenic bacteria can become infected. did not multiply. Bifidobacteria normalize intestinal motility, participate in the formation of lysozyme, stimulate the development of lymphoid tissue, take part in the synthesis of vitamins B, C, K, B, E, promote the absorption of calcium, iron, and are capable of forming essential amino acids and some fats and carbohydrates. It is better to give such mixtures to a child in the summer and late spring, when it is hot, as well as to children with bowel disorders and weakened immunity. In general, it is recommended to prescribe fermented milk mixtures to children only from the first month of life, because earlier they can lead to regurgitation or intensify it. Moreover, it is best to combine the use of acidophilus and fresh mixtures in equal volumes of the total daily amount of food. It is optimal to give fermented milk mixtures during the daytime, and unleavened milk substitutes in the morning and evening.
Dry mixtures are much more profitable than liquid ones, because you can measure and prepare the amount of mixture that is needed, and the remaining powder can be stored for a long time, in addition, they are cheaper in price and weigh less than their liquid counterparts. On the other hand, liquid mixtures do not need to be prepared, just heated to the desired temperature, and the mixture is already at the correct dilution.
Liquid mixtures include “Malyutka”. "Agu-1", "Baby-milk" is a domestic manufacturer. Foreign liquid mixtures are mainly “Tutgeli”. The use of liquid formulas is advisable only if they are used daily, systematically, without alternating with dry analogues, because otherwise it will be difficult for the child to adapt to one or the other type of formula.
As you know, human milk contains both of these components, but there is much more whey protein. Therefore, the same proportion must be maintained in mixtures. The Russian market of formulas is represented mainly by casein mixtures, the use of which is undesirable for the baby. If you are going to artificially feed your baby, you should give him the best and refrain from using casein breast milk substitutes.
Depending on the age at which any formula can be used, all artificial breast milk substitutes are divided into basic formulas, subsequent formulas, and formulas for children with various developmental disorders and metabolic disorders - specialized formulas. Separately, it should be noted that there are special formulas for feeding low birth weight or premature babies. In any case, according to the recommendation of the Health Organization, as with natural feeding, a baby up to 4-5 months should receive only formula, and only then complementary foods are introduced.
Basic formulas are used for babies aged from birth to 4-5 months of life. The basic formula must be adapted, because it is during the first half of life that the digestion process is established and the necessary flora is populated in the intestines. Basic formulas must contain all the required components in a composition that is closest to breast milk.
To feed babies in the second half of life, i.e. from 5 months and older, special “follow-up formulas” are used. They are so called because they are intended for nutrition at a subsequent age stage. Usually, the name of such mixtures must contain the number 2, for example, “HiPP-2”, “Enfamil-2”. These formulas are less similar in composition to breast milk and, in general, are a type of partially adapted difficult milk substitutes. No demineralized whey is added to them, and in addition, the caloric content of such mixtures is slightly increased to meet the needs of a child in the second half of life.
These reasons are not indications for transferring the child to artificial feeding and, if desired, the mother can continue breastfeeding if she makes an effort.
AMC is usually prepared from cow's milk; in some countries I use goat, mare, and camel milk. These mixtures (adapted) in the composition of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals are close to breast milk and are adapted to the needs of a young child.
Their distinctive feature is industrial bacterial fermentation or the addition of acids to their composition. In terms of ingredients, they are close to human milk. But it should be remembered that not one, even the best formula, can replace mother’s breast milk.
The protein in these mixtures is in a curdled state, which makes it easier to digest. They are evacuated from the stomach more slowly, which increases the secretory function of the gastrointestinal tract and ensures faster digestion and absorption in the intestine. In the colon, these mixtures exhibit antibiotic activity against pathogenic microflora and contribute to the formation of normal intestinal biocenosis (since they contain fermented milk and bifidobacteria). Fermented milk mixtures promote the secretion of the pancreas and intestinal enzymes, increase bile secretion, which facilitates the digestion process. In addition, they normalize metabolism, stimulate hematopoiesis, and have a beneficial effect on the immune system.
They acquire particular importance when feeding children with intestinal disorders, manifestations of malnutrition, dysbacteriosis, allergic diathesis, and prematurity.
Fermented milk mixtures can be used as the main type of nutrition, or they can only constitute part of the feeding volume, both daily and one-time (for the purpose of preventing gastrointestinal disorders).
When purchasing this mixture, you will find the label fermented milk mixture on the packaging. For example, “Nutrilon” fermented milk.
Unadapted milk formulas are mixtures prepared from fresh or powdered animal milk that have not undergone special processing.
Feeding with such formulas is categorically not acceptable for children in the first year of life, but sometimes parents cannot buy expensive adapted formulas. Therefore, they have to resort to feeding with unadapted formulas. In our country, cow's milk is most often used. Whole cow's milk differs significantly in composition from women's milk, so it must be diluted before feeding. It is better to do this not with water, but with a 5% cereal decoction. A 5% cereal decoction is prepared by boiling; for this, take 1 teaspoon of rice or buckwheat cereal per 100 ml of water, boil, filter through cheesecloth and dilute the milk with the resulting liquid.
In the first 2-3 weeks of life, the ratio of milk and broth is 1: 1; from 2 weeks to 3-4 months 2:1. Consumption of undiluted cow's milk by a child under 3 months of age can cause metabolic, electrolyte and intestinal disturbances. After 3-4 months, you can use whole (undiluted) cow's milk. Cow's milk has a reduced amount of carbohydrates compared to women's milk; diluting the milk leads to an even greater reduction. Therefore, it is necessary to add sugar to these mixtures. To do this, use 5% sugar syrup - 1 teaspoon of sugar per 100 ml of water or decoction.
It is necessary to strive to use only adapted milk formulas, as they are as close as possible to the composition of human milk.
To calculate the required amount of milk, they use the volumetric method and determine the child’s daily needs for basic food ingredients (this is often used to make nutritional corrections).
Example. The child is 2 months old, birth weight 3600 g, 6 feedings a day (6:00, 9:30, 13:00, 16:30, 20:00, 23:30). The child receives the Nutrilon mixture
Proper body weight = 3600 g + 600 g + 800 g = 5000 g
Daily food volume = 1/6 of body weight = 5000: 6 = 833.3 (840 ml);
Volume of food per feeding = 840: 6 = 140 ml;
The child's daily ingredient needs:
Amount of ingredients in 840 ml of Nutrilon mixture:
The difference between the child’s needs and the amount of ingredients received should not exceed 1-1.5 g, and the energy content should not exceed 50 kcal.
In this case, the child receives a sufficient amount of ingredients.
If there is a big difference between the child’s needs and the amount received, then nutritional correction is carried out
After the introduction of the first complementary foods (4.5-5 months), 5 meals a day are possible, with a 4-hour interval during the day and an 8-hour break at night.
Also, when artificial feeding, a free feeding mode can be used (as with breastfeeding).
Most artificial mixtures are available in dry form, but there are also liquid mixtures that are ready for use after heating. There are mixtures that require cooking (boiling), for example, “Malyutka” and those that do not require boiling, “Detolakt”.
There is nothing better than breast milk for a newborn. But, due to certain circumstances, not all mothers can afford the luxury of breastfeeding their child. Moreover, situations here are different - and a woman needs to look for a way out. What should you feed your child if you are sick now? What should I do if I need to take medications that are incompatible with breastfeeding? There is an alternative to breastfeeding and it is called - adapted milk formulas for artificial feeding of children. But the whole point is that a mother cannot just go and buy the first formula she likes - she first needs to study the composition of the mixture, read the instructions for it and buy a product taking into account the needs of the child. Moreover, there are formulas for full-term babies, premature babies, those suffering from allergies and intolerance to cow's milk - as we see, there are a lot of nuances in choosing a formula for artificial feeding. Of course, young mothers have questions that even pediatricians are not always able to answer.
What is an adapted milk formula? Is it necessary to buy a mixture with this exact inscription on it?
Infant formula primarily consists of cow's milk. This product undergoes strict processing in production in order to be adapted to the needs of the gastrointestinal tract. Cow's milk is most adaptable in composition to breast milk in terms of useful components, proteins, fats, carbohydrates, and vitamin complex. For children from birth to six months, such mixtures should be maximally enriched with all useful substances. This is the only way to ensure the growth and development of a little person. With age, the child’s need for such nutrition decreases, and the mother can already begin to introduce complementary foods (from 6 months).
Is it possible to take the same adapted formula both at 3 months and at 8 months (the age is taken as an example to show the difference)?
No, for children under 6 months the mixture is produced with a richer, balanced vitamin and mineral composition. With this mixture, the child gains muscle and fat mass, grows, and develops. After 6 months, complementary foods are introduced, so there is no need for a high-calorie mixture. The mixture marked “2”, which means for children over 6 months, has much less protein, carbohydrates, and fat. The only thing you need to pay attention to is that the mixture has a high iron content. Because by the second half of life, a sharp decrease in this element occurs in the child’s body, which leads to iron deficiency anemia.
Is it possible to change mixtures often? Try all that are available and determine from the child’s reaction which one is better?
It is very important! Young parents, remember: infant formula for artificial feeding is changed only for certain indications - an allergic reaction in the child, bad stool (the child does not go to the toilet for several days), constipation, diarrhea, etc.
If you're wondering: “Should I change my child’s formula or not?” Then be sure to take into account the health indicators of your baby. Do not be lazy to consult a pediatrician about this.
The formula must be changed if the child is not gaining weight well, constantly spits up after feeding, or has severe colic. Moreover, in these cases it is not only recommended to change the formula, but also to show the child to the doctor.
The formula does not need to be changed if your baby is developing well, gaining weight, and is feeling great.
Important! The child must adapt to each new food in his diet for a certain time. When purchasing formula, be sure to pay attention to the labeling, in particular, to the number indicated there - “1” for children from 0 to 6 months, “2” for children from 6 to 12 months, “3” for children over 12 months.
Why do we need special adapted milk formulas?
Such mixtures are needed in cases where a child has digestive problems, stool problems (the child does not go to the toilet), or is allergic to cow's milk (moreover, the fact of this allergy was recorded by a pediatrician or an allergist).
If you have the problems described above, pay attention to special medicinal mixtures or those that come with a preventive focus. The composition of these mixtures is designed specifically taking into account the health problems of the child.
Which mixture should I buy for diarrhea?
For diarrhea, the child is prescribed a special mixture with the addition of prebiotics. As a result of its regular use, the child’s gastrointestinal tract should normalize. Mixtures with prebiotics are indicated for lactose intolerance. Pay attention to Humana’s mixtures or any other, where there is a mark “with prebiotics”.
If your child has constipation or intestinal dysbiosis, then pay attention to milk formulas with lactulose. Lactulose is a substance that promotes the growth and development of bifidobacteria in the human body. If the doctor prescribes such a mixture, then it should be an option for the only feeding or as a replacement for one or more feedings per day. As a result, the child’s stool should become frequent and of normal consistency.
For colic, flatulence, and constipation, medicinal mixtures with prebiotics (milk protein) are prescribed. A mixture with a reduced lactulose content is aimed at reducing flatulence and normalizing digestion. Pay attention to the “anti-colic” label on the mixture.
For frequent regurgitation, a mixture containing carob gum is prescribed.
How to properly give artificial cm to a child are you?
It is very important to follow the following rules when using formula for artificial feeding:
How much formula does the baby need?
The volume of the formula is calculated solely from the actual weight of the child. In the first 6 months, the child needs to consume 115 kcal per kg, after 6 months - 110 kcal per kilogram. One liter of mixture usually contains 680 kcal per liter.
For example, at 3 months a child weighs 5300 grams. This means he needs to consume 115 kcal*5.3 = 609 kcal/day. Now we calculate the required volume of the mixture - (609 kcal * 1000)/680 = 895 ml.
When choosing formula milk, of course, it is better to consult a doctor. But what if you don't trust your pediatrician? After all, this is not uncommon now. For many families, a good doctor is an unaffordable luxury, and in some regions of our country, a good pediatrician is a pipe dream. That is why, when choosing formula milk, many do it on their own. Fortunately, now on the Internet you can find a whole bunch of information on any issue, add to this the advice of experienced friends, caring mothers and grandmothers who have raised more than one generation, and you will definitely be able to independently choose the right milk formula for feeding your child .
The first thing you need to understand is that no formula, even the most expensive, can replace breast milk 100%. Therefore, it is necessary to transfer a baby from breastfeeding to artificial feeding only if necessary.
Newborn babies can only be given adapted milk formulas. The number “1” on the packaging means that this mixture can be given to the youngest. The “Pre” marking means that the mixture is hypoallergenic, that is, it does not cause allergies in the child. But, as a rule, it tastes less pleasant, and many children refuse to eat it. In any case, when buying formula, pay attention to the expiration date, and do not buy a large package right away, it is likely that your baby may not like it. It is not always possible to guess with the choice of milk formula the first time, here you can only rely on trial and error - there is no such formula that all children eat unconditionally.
Particular attention should be paid to the content of “Taurine”. Taurine is an amino acid that a child needs for brain development. It is especially important for premature babies and for those who are bottle-fed from the first days.
It is advisable to choose a mixture that does not contain sucrose; it is better if it contains glucose or fructose instead.
Infant formulas can be divided into four categories:
Highly adapted– “NAS”, “Alprem”, “Nutrilon”, “HIPP”, “HIPP Pre”, “Frisolak”. Milk formulas of this type, in composition, are as close as possible to breast milk. They contain all the mineral salts, trace elements and vitamins a child needs for normal development and growth. They are great for feeding babies up to 6 months. Their composition is completely balanced and ensures good absorption by the baby’s body.
Less adapted- “Impress”, “Similak”. They are made from skim cow's milk. These are so-called casein formulas, since the main protein contained in them is “Casein”. They are well suited for feeding babies from 6 to 12 months.
Partially adapted- “Baby”, “Detolakt”, “Sunny”, “Baby”. They often use sucrose, and their composition is only partially similar to breast milk.
Special- “Nenatal.” These mixtures are intended for special cases; they are prescribed to babies born with low birth weight, or premature babies, as well as babies with congenital metabolic disorders.
Be sure to dilute the mixture in the proportions and in the order recommended by the manufacturer. Use formula appropriate for your baby's age.
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