Choosing to Formula-Feed

Nine out of ten mothers use formula.

According to a recent study, most new mothers (9 out of 10, actually) use formula at some point during their baby's first year. So you're not alone, not by a long shot.

Women are choosing formula feeding for many reasons.

• Either mom or baby has physical or medical issues.
• She can't pump or breastfeed after returning to work.
• She wants Dad and other family members to be a part of feeding.

There are many formula options for your baby.

You can feel good knowing that there are some excellent formula options out there. Look for the ones that are specially formulated to nourish your baby's brain and eye development and immune health.

What to look for in an infant formula:

• Different brands of formulas have different levels of DHA, ARA and choline, key nutrients found in breast milk. Look for a formula with expert-recommended levels of these important building blocks for your baby's brain and eyes.
• Most babies thrive on a formula with whole proteins. Breast milk has whole proteins in it, and you want your formula to be as close to breast milk as possible.
  
  »Learn About Whole Proteins and Your Baby's Digestive System
• Your formula should satisfy your baby's basic nutrition requirements and provide the balanced nutrition your baby needs, including calcium and antioxidants.
  
  »Read Some Formula-Feeding FAQs

Smart Formula Nutrition

* Average level of DHA in worldwide breast milk is 0.32% +/- 0.22% (mean +/- standard deviation of total fatty acids) based on an analysis of 65 studies of 2,474 women.
† As calculated from the mean choline content of human milk determined by the Institute of Medicine.
‡Similac and Advance are registered trademarks of an entity unrelated to Mead Johnson & Company.

1. Brenna et al. Am J Clin Nutr 2007; 85: 1457-1464.
2. Ross Products website. Accessed March 12, 2008.