Formula feeding is an alternative for of feeding to breastfeeding. Many mothers choose this route for so many reasons; from health to inability to breastfeed to personal reasons. Some mothers also decide to combine feed – that is feed both breastmilk and formula. No matter your reason to formula feed, remember you are making the right choice for you and your baby.

Choosing the right formula is not an easy task however and requires both patience and research.

Baby Formula comes in 3 forms – Powder, Ready to Feed and Liquid Concentrate.

Then there are the various types:

• Cow milk based
• Hypoallergenic
• Hydrolyzed and partially hydrolyzed
• Anti-spit up
• Hungry baby
• Dairy-free
• Organic / Non-GMO
• Goat milk
• Soy or plant based milk
• Lactose-free.

Cow milk based formulas are the most common and widely used baby formula on the market and the one you are most likely to buy unless otherwise advised by your doctor or pediatrician. Your doctor may advice you switch formula if your baby is being fussy on the current one, has a lot of gas or spits up a lot, is feeding at shorter intervals (not getting full), has reflux or other gastric issues, is sensitive to cow milk protein, etc.

DO NOT SWITCH FORMULA JUST FOR THE SAKE OF IT – ALWAYS SEEK MEDICAL ADVICE FIRST.

Things to consider when choosing infant formula

• Pick one that is within your budget or price range – baby formula is expensive and you may run through 1 or 2 cans a month depending on the size and your baby’s appetite.
• Choose one that is easy to get/ find on the market – there is no need choosing a hard to find brand of formula, at least for your own peace of mind. Remember most of the formula we use in Ghana is imported
• Always ensure you have an extra can available – to avoid running out in the middle of the night, it is advisable to always have a reserve can
• Always check for dents, expiry date and any defects before purchasing – the inside of the can is coated to prevent the can and formula from reacting, dents can cause a break in the coating and may lead to issues with baby’s tummy. Expired milk is very harmful to your little one, no matter what anyone says.
• Buy from trusted sources – imagine buying and finding out you have an imitation brand or there has been tampering? Establish repo with a vendor where possible and try to source your formula from one vendor. Some vendors can be dubious – changing expiry dates and all. Be on the lookout always.

The one thing I can’t emphasis enough is choosing a formula within your budget, remember you will be buying this for the next 1-2 years and the bill can add up quite fast. Don’t put yourself in a financial bind just because your friend/sister/colleague gave their baby formula A or B.

Always speak with your doctor, pediatrician or midwife when in doubt. I have also come to realize that the shop attendants are a great source of information – be nice to them and you will be amazed the help you get.

In all things regarding your baby, trust your gut. No one knows your baby like you do.