Which Is the Best Formula Milk for Babies?

Choosing the right formula milk is one of the most important decisions parents make when, for whatever reason, breastfeeding is not possible or needs to be supplemented. With so many options available, it is normal to wonder which is the best formula milk or which formula is best for each stage of growth. In this article, we explain which is the best formula milk for your baby and why. Keep reading!

What is formula milk and why is there no single “best” option?

Formula milk is a food designed to cover a baby’s nutritional needs when they cannot be fed exclusively with breast milk. However, the question “which is the best formula milk for babies?” does not have a fixed answer, because every baby has different needs.

Some formulas are designed for babies with digestive issues, others include ingredients that try to resemble breast milk, and there are specific options for allergies, premature babies or babies with low birth weight. That is why, although many parents look for the best infant formula, the most appropriate approach is to identify the milk that best suits the baby’s characteristics and needs, always under the guidance of a paediatrician.

Which formula milk is best according to the WHO?

One of the most common questions among families is which formula milk is best for their baby. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends breastfeeding as the ideal option, especially during the first six months of life.

However, when breastfeeding is not possible, infant formulas are the most suitable alternative, provided that they meet established nutritional requirements and standards and are used under the recommendation of a paediatrician.

So, which formula milk is best for my baby?

When choosing milk for your baby, it is important to take the following aspects into account:

1. Nutritional composition: it is very important that the formula includes essential fatty acids (DHA and ARA), nucleotides, vitamins and minerals. As well as ingredients that support cognitive, immune and digestive development.

2. Easy digestion: some babies tolerate formulas with partially hydrolysed proteins or ingredients that support digestion better. These are especially intended for babies who have heavier or slower digestion.

3. Advice from your paediatrician: they know the baby’s clinical history and can guide you towards the most suitable option.

4. The baby’s age: formula milk is classified into the following 3 stages:

• Stage 1: newborns.
• Stage 2: from 6 months.
• Stage 3: over 12 months.

Best formula milks: our recommendation

Among follow-on formulas, some tend to stand out because of their composition and the acceptance they have among babies, parents and paediatricians. Among them, Nestlé Nan Supreme Pro milks are alternatives designed to support nutrition and development in the later stages:

Nan Supreme Pro 2 follow-on milk

Follow-on milk intended for babies who are already over six months old. Its formula includes:

• Calcium and vitamin D: they contribute to the correct development and growth of bones.
• Iron: for normal cognitive development.
• Vitamins C and D: for the normal functioning of the immune system.
• DHA: contributes to normal visual development in children up to 12 months of age.
• Vitamin B1: supports the normal metabolism of carbohydrates and energy production.

In addition to 6 HMOs (oligosaccharides structurally identical to those found in breast milk) for a healthy microbiota. Two combined probiotics: B. lactis and B. infantis(the latter present in breastfed babies) and “Gentle Optipro”, a unique process from Nestlé Nan Supreme Pro 2 that achieves a blend of partially hydrolysed proteins.

Nan Supreme Pro 3 growing-up milk

A great option for children who have already started a more varied diet is Nestlé Nan Supreme Pro 3.

Like Nestlé Nan Supreme Pro 2 follow-on milk, this growing-up milk includes the combination of probiotics, 6 HMOs and the “Gentle Optipro” process. As well as vitamin B1, C and D, calcium, iron and DHA for the child’s proper and normal development.

Although both formula milks are completely safe and include different vitamins and minerals that contribute to the baby’s wellbeing, in cases where breastfeeding needs to be supplemented or breastfeeding is not possible, our recommendation is always to ask your usual healthcare professional which one to choose.