All pediatricians and healthcare providers state that breastfeeding supplies babies with the required nutrients safely because breast milk is adapted to the needs of newborns. Unfortunately, not all mothers can breastfeed. What’s more, some babies are intolerant to animal milk proteins that are found in traditional cow or goat baby formulas. In this case, mothers should supply their babies with vegan baby Formula Protein. There are 5 facts mothers should know about vegan baby formulas.

Fact #1. Vegan milk and vegan formula are not equal

Pediatricians and nutritionists don’t recommend using any kind of milk, including vegan ones, as the first meal for newborns. Brands make baby formulas according to the FDA or EFSA standards, so each serving has the demanded number of macronutrients and micronutrients. Milk, including animal types, must be introduced to babies who are not less than 12 months old.

Fact #2. The nutritious value of vegan milk differs from nutrients found in vegan formula

Cow and goat milk is rich in calcium, protein, fats, healthy carbs, potassium, and other vitamins and minerals. Moreover, it has enough calories to let a baby stay full longer. Vegan milk might or might not have the required nutrients, and manufacturers usually have to add these nutrients artificially. Consequently, parents should make sure that the chosen formula won’t cause allergic reactions and that its added vitamins will be absorbed properly by a baby’s organism. 

Fact #3. Vegan formulas are perfect for animal milk-intolerant babies

Sometimes babies cannot tolerate animal milk formulas and suffer from colitis, indigestion, vomiting, skin rash, itching, and other side effects. Vegan formulas come to their rescue and are safer and more nutritious alternatives than vegan milk.

Fact #4. The most popular vegan formulas are soy and rice-based

The latest reviews proved that soya-based milk infant formulas are good for a baby’s bones, proper brain development, improvement of the immune system, and healthy physical growth.  They don’t cause hormonal imbalance like some false research tried to state. Such formulas are safe and provide babies with everything required, especially the organic variants.

Note! Babies with hypothyroidism who take hormones should eat this formula type under the expert’s supervision.

Rice formulas are perfect for babies who suffer from frequent spitting up. Moreover, this formula fits babies with diarrhea even if they tolerate cow and goat milk formulas perfectly. In general, it is hard to find a person who is allergic to rice, so this formula is a good option for most allergic infants. Top brands hydrolyze rice proteins to help babies digest formula quickly and safely. Besides, such formulas are packed with all nutrients. 

Fact #5. Vegan formulas are lactose-free

Most formulas use lactose as the source of energy. Vegan baby formula contain maltodextrin instead to guarantee the best digestibility and a safe source of energy for newborns. It is derived from starch and is safe for babies. Moreover, it prevents regurgitation in babies, so the consumed food remains in a baby’s stomach to promise the required absorption of macroelements and microelements. My son is now lactose intolerant so its so important to have vegan options for children of all ages.

Final tip: If a baby tolerates cow or goat milk formula, it is better to choose these options. Vegan formulas are good for babies with specific health conditions.