Children's Mercy Pediatric Partners Inc

Types of Formulas:
- Milk-protein formulas, soy-protein formulas, and hydrolysate formulas
- Most formulas are cow milk based, some are now goat milk based.
- Soy formulas don't contain lactose or cow's milk protein.
  - Most infants are not lactose intolerant (this typically develops in teens and adults).
  - Many infants who are allergic to cow's milk protein also are allergic to soy protein.
  - Soy formulas tend to contain higher levels of aluminum than breast milk and cow's milk formulas. This may affect infant development.
  - Soy may alter estrogen and thyroid hormone levels.
  - Soy formula is generally not recommended but can be used when families do not eat animal products.
- Hydrolysate (and partially hydrolysated) formulas have broken down (and partially broken down) protein. These are advised when children are sensitive to milk protein.
- Never make your own infant formula from online recipes. Buy commercially sold products that are manufactured with nutrition standards.
Switching Formulas and Milk Allergies:
- Switching from one milk-based formula to another is not helpful for any symptom. It is also not harmful and can be done if the formula brand you typically use is not available.
- Switching from milk formula to soy formula is sometimes helpful for severe diarrhea. This may occur from temporary low lactase levels after a viral illness.
- Switching from milk formula to soy is sometimes helpful for cow's milk allergy, but as stated above, many babies with cow's milk protein allergy also have soy milk protein allergy. If there is a milk protein allergy, a protein hydrolysate formula (such as Alimentum or Nutramigen) is advised.
- Switching formulas for frequent crying, spitting up or gas is rarely helpful. Usually infants will stop this behavior around the same time with or without changes. It is a developmental stage, not a problem with the formula, if the baby is growing normally.
- Don't switch formulas without talking with us first. We will want to see your baby to discuss symptoms and track weight gain before making recommendations, so please schedule an appointment.
Powdered versus Liquid Formulas:
- Formulas come in 3 forms: powder, concentrated liquid and ready-to-feed liquid.
- Concentrated formulas are mixed 1:1 with water.
- Ready-to-feed formulas do not need any added water.
- Powdered formulas are mixed 2 ounces (60 mL) of water per each level scoop of powder. Never add extra water because dilute formula can cause a seizure.
- Powdered formula costs the least. Ready-to-feed formula costs the most.
- Powdered formula is the easiest to use to supplement breastfeeding.
- Ready-to-feed formula is the easiest to use for traveling unless you will be traveling for an extended time and the weight of the formula is cumbersome.

Date Updated: Jan 23 2026 21:59 Version 0.1

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