Understanding Baby's Formula Milk

Because drinking cow's milk is not recommended for babies under 12 months of age, Aptamil formula milk is made with cow's milk that is specially tailored made with added vitamins, minerals, LCP's to meet a baby's nutritional needs. Most baby milk formulas come as a powder that is ready to be mixed with boiled water and fed in a bottle. Ready-made formula feeds are also handy to have if you are on the go or needs something for overnight.

Is there a difference between formula milk feeds?

When it comes to choosing formula milk, most formulas are categorised by age or nutritional needs. Infant formula for 0-6 months is either ?whey dominant' or ?casein dominant'. If you are starting your baby on formula milk for the first time, it's best to start with whey-based formula milk and see how he or she adapts. Formula Milk for babies can usually be grouped into the following categories:

Formula Milk for 0-6 months

Infant Milk is specially designed for newborns and is whey dominant. You can recognise infant feed because it's labelled ?suitable from birth' or ?first milk'. Infant milk for hungrier babies is a casein dominant formula that contains proteins which form a thicker curd in the stomach. These are easily recognised by their ?hungry' or ?for hungry babies' label.

Formula Milk for 6-12 months

Follow On milk can be used to complement a weaning diet. It provides your baby with nutrients that are needed while you are introducing new foods. Easily recognised by a ?follow on' label.

Formula Milk for 12+ months

Growing Up milk is suitable from 12 months up. It is designed to meet your toddler's nutritional needs and compliment their diet as they enter into a more active phase of life. There are other special formula milks available for preterm babies, babies with allergies to cow's milk, and babies with feeding problems like colic, constipation, and reflux. If you are concerned that your baby may have any of these conditions, or you just want to be sure, ask your healthcare professional for advice.

How should I prepare formula milk?

When preparing formula milk for your baby, always remember that powdered milk is not sterile, and as such, it is important that you follow this guide to safe preparation.