10 Best Baby Formulas For Breastfed Babies [Pharmacist Guide]

This article is especially for you if you are searching for the best formula for breastfed babies and searching for an honest review.  

Experts and pediatricians worldwide recommend exclusive breastfeeding for the initial 06-12 months of a baby’s life. [1]

Unfortunately, there might be some unfavorable circumstances in which breastfeeding may not be possible, so the only option is for mothers to have formula milk.

Many formula milk brands are available, and if you are confused about which one will be the best alternative to breast milk, follow this article until the end. Here, we have compiled a list of the best baby formula for breastfed babies available on the market.

What is a baby formula?

As clarified from the name, infant formula or baby formula is a highly processed dry food in powder form or a liquid concentrate form, ready to be reconstituted/diluted with purified water. 

You can also use it as directed by the manufacturer, or it may be available in a ready-to-use form and is required to meet the dietary needs of infants. 

The formula can also be mixed with breast milk to correct your baby’s nutritional deficiencies.

10 Best Baby Formulas For Breastfed Babies

After days of researching different brands and reading many of the best baby formula reviews, we recommend the following formulas among all the available products in the market.

Our Top Pick

Benefits
No artificial growth hormone
Contain iron which is beneficial for infact growth
It also contain prebiotics which is crucial for baby's immunity
DHA, Lutein, Vitamin E, and other nutrients that help your baby's brain and eyes grow.

Customer Reviews

4.8/5 (It may change with time)

1. Similac Advance Infant Formula

⇒(Our Top Pick)

Infants below the age of 12 months grow rapidly, so their parents care more than anything to provide the best nutritional support. They can quickly be supplied through breastfeeding, but if there is a problem with breastfeeding, then the best among all the available formulas in the market shall be chosen. The best formula baby formula for breastfed babies is one that contains all the nutrients required for the rapid growth of your baby. It is one of the best baby formulas for breastfed babies because it contains multivitamins and minerals in sufficient quantity. It also has probiotics and prebiotics to help build a strong immune system to fight germs and diseases. We are reviewing this product, which is the best alternative to breast milk.

Features:

  1. The product is designed for babies of 0-12 months of age.
  2. The product is available in three packs, each with 36 OZ (1.02kg) of dry powder.

Pros

  • This baby formula milk contains Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMO), which makes it the closest formula to breast milk.
  • An exclusive blend of nutrients in the form of optiGRO is a specification of Abbott’s Similac formula, making it one of the best formulas for baby growth and development.
  • The product does not contain any artificial growth hormones.
  • The product contains iron for infants’ better oxygenation and cellular growth.
  • The product comprises prebiotics, which will help to make the immune system healthy.
  • DHA, Lutein, and vitamin E will help improve brain, visual, and body growth.
  • Non-GMO certified
  • It can be used alone or mixed with breast milk, but it may be prepared separately in purified water and added to the breast milk.
  • It is one of the trusted formulae highly recommended by moms.

Cons

  • Being in the powder form, the formula may need some effort to be prepared with purified water.
  • Mixing the dry powder with pumped breast milk requires particular directions and is not easy.
  • This product is not suitable to be used by babies with galactosemia.
  • This product is not eligible for lactose intolerance.

 

best baby formula for breastfed babies
Pic: Amazon

2. Baby’s Only Lacto-Relief Toddler Formula

⇒ (Lactose-Free)

Many infants cannot digest lactose, a carbohydrate present in breast milk, and milk-based formulas, which results in diarrhea and growth retardation. For such types of patients, unique formulas that do not contain lactose are used. It will be best if a particular formula is of organic origin and NON-GMO certified. This is the best baby formula for breastfed babies because of its benefits. We are providing our review of this product as follows in terms of pros and cons;

Features:

  • It’s the best baby formula for newborns 0-12 months.
  • The size per serving is four fl. oz (120ml); servings per container is about 21.
  • This product is available in dry powder form and a pack of 6.

Pros

  • Infants with lactose intolerance can use this product.
  • This is the best organic baby formula that contains DHA & ARA obtained organically from egg phospholipids.
  • It is a NON-GMO product, with no corn syrup, palm oil, or fungal or algae oils.
  • It is free from bleach or acids.
  • The product has no genetically engineered products present.
  • It is the best formula for developing the nervous system, eye, and brain.
  • Hexane is a free product concerning DHA & ARA.
  • It is also gluten-free and has no egg allergens.
  • This formula is BPA-Free and packaging-certified.
  • OU Kosher is certified and contains eggs, dairy, soy, and coconut.

Cons

  • Not for use in infants with galactosemia.
  • Mixing the dry powder with pumped breast milk requires particular directions and is not easy.
  • It cannot be used in babies with protein allergies.

 

best baby formula for breastfed babies
Pic: Amazon

3. Enfamil PREMIUM (Pack of 4)

(best baby formula for gas)

Uneasiness and crying are some common problems that you may feel in your baby. There are multiple reasons for these symptoms, but the most common are gas and abdominal colic. Therefore, the particular type of formula is designed to meet the nutritional needs of infants and reduce fussiness, gas, and crying. Enfamil PREMIUM is the best formula for colic babies, having the following pros and cons.

Features:

  • It is a specially designed milk-based dry powder, the best formula milk for babies 0-6 months. It can also be used for up to 12 months.
  • It is the closest formula to breast milk and is the best formula for reflux and gas.
  • The net weight is 21.5 OZ (610g), containing 33 servings, each serving equal to 4 fl. oz (18g) per container.
  • The product comes with refills and a reusable tub.

Pros

  • Relieves symptoms of fussiness, gas, and crying within 24hrs
  • It contains iron, which is best for improving the oxygen-carrying capacity of blood cells and, ultimately, cellular respiratory improvement.
  • It provides gentle nutrition that is easy to digest.
  • It contains up to 30 nutrients for better growth.
  • It also contains vitamins and minerals for the better immune system.
  • It also has DHA, which is of organic origin, to develop the brain and nervous system.
  • It is one of the formulas closest to breast milk in composition due to omega 3 DHA 20mg and Inositol equal to 29 mg per 06 fl. oz of a serving.
  • The product is NON-GMO and the best organic baby formula.
  • It is free from artificial ingredients, and the packaging tube is reusable.
  • The price of this formula is economical for a whole month of nutrition.
  • Recommended by mothers and placed as #1 by pediatricians.

Cons

  • It is not recommended for use in infants with galactosemia
  • It cannot be used in allergic babies with protein allergies.
  • Mixing is easy; you need special directions to mix it with the breast milk.
  • It contains no probiotics, which is not a good thing, in my opinion.

 

best baby formula for breastfed babies
Pic: Amazon

4. Gerber Good Start Gentle (HMO) Infant Formula

⇒ (Best brand)

The infant formula should be easy to digest and mimic the composition of breast milk. Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMO) make it the closest formula to breast milk. The presence of probiotic agents provides extra immunity. Gerber Good Start Gentle (HMO) infant formula is one of the best formulas for breastfed babies and offers the following pros and cons.

Features:

  • Specially designed milk-based dry powder formula for infants 0-12 months
  • Size per serving four fl. oz (120ml), servings per container about 56

Pros

  • The product contains probiotics (B. lactus), which are best for immunity.
  • It is NON-GMO and has no growth hormones added—so it is safe to use.
  • It contains iron, which is best for improving the oxygen-carrying capacity of blood cells and cellular respiratory improvement.
  • The product is free from bleach or acids, and no genetically engineered products are present.
  • It contains comfort proteins that reduce uneasiness and fussiness.
  • Contains DHA, which is best for the development of the nervous system, eye, and brain
  • It has vitamin D3 of organic origin, which is best for bone growth and immunity.
  • It contains vitamin E, which is best for antioxidant activity
  • It contains milk and soy.
  • The manufacturer provides a money-back guarantee if the end-user is not satisfied.
  • The best formula for breastfed baby supplement
  • Moms and pediatricians recommend it.

Cons

  • The product is not suitable for those with lactose intolerance and galactosemia
  • Mixing powder with pumped breast milk needs particular directions and is not easy.
  • It is not recommended in babies with protein allergies.

 

best baby formula for breastfed babies
Pic: Amazon

5. Enfamil Reguline Baby Formula

⇒ (Best Formula For Constipation)

Seventy percent of the immune system is located in the gut, and normal flora or, say, beneficial bacteria reside there. The nutrients required for the growth of these beneficial bacteria are called prebiotics. Constipation and diarrhea may affect your baby’s health. To overcome these problems, prebiotics and probiotics shall be included in the formula. If you feel that your baby has difficulty in pooping, consider this formula, and definitely, you will get fruitful results.

 

Features:

  • Specially designed milk-based dry powder formula for infants 0-12 months
  • Net weight 20.4 OZ (578g), contains 33 servings per container, each serving size equal to 2 unpacked level scoops or four fl. oz. or 17.4g
  • It provides complete nutrition and is recommended by nutritionists and pediatricians.

Pros

  • It contains dual prebiotics that help relieve constipation symptoms within one week.
  • It contains iron, which is best for improving the oxygen-carrying capacity of blood cells and, ultimately, cellular respiratory improvement.
  • It contains up to 30 nutrients for better growth.
  • It contains vitamins and minerals that provide an exclusive immune system
  • Has 20mg DHA of organic origin to develop the brain and nervous system
  • It is a wholly organic and NON-GMO product.
  • The product contains no genetically engineered products and no artificial flavors, colors, or sweeteners.
  • The price is also affordable for a whole month of nutrition.
  • It is also one of the recommended brands by pediatricians.

Cons

  • It cannot be used in babies with protein allergies.
  • If your baby has lactose intolerance and galactosemia—avoid it.
  • The formula may need some effort in preparation with purified water.

 

best baby formula for breastfed babies
Pic: Amazon

6. Enfamil A.R. Baby Formula Immune & Brain Support

⇒ (Best For Spit Up)

Every mother cares more than anything for her baby, and it becomes more prominent when her baby has some health-related issues. It is common among babies to vomit feed milk, which is a matter of great concern if it occurs frequently. A baby can quickly vomit any less thick formula. That’s why specially designed thick formulas reduce the spit-up problem. That’s the reason this is the closest formula to breast milk. Many formulas are on the market, but Enfamil provides the best.

Here, we will review one of the best spit-up baby formulas from Enfamil.

Features 

  • This is the best baby formula for newborns with milk-based iron-containing powder formula for infants (0-12 months) having regurgitation or spit-up issues.
  • The net weight is 21.5 OZ (610g), and it contains 33 servings, each serving equal to 4 fl. oz (18g) per container.
  • Provided with refills and reusable tub

Pros

  • Produces anti-regurgitation (A.R) effect within one week and reduces the spit up by 50 % within one week of use
  • It contains added rice starch for thickening, but it is not like other formulas. It also provides solid nutritional support through its triple health guard system, the brand’s specialty.
  • It contains dual prebiotics that help relieve constipation symptoms within one week.
  • It contains iron, which is best for improving the oxygen-carrying capacity of blood cells and, ultimately, cellular respiratory improvement.
  • It contains up to 30 nutrients for better growth.
  • It contains vitamins and minerals that provide an exclusive immune system.
  • It contains 20mg DHA of organic origin to develop the brain and nervous system.
  • This formula has no artificial flavors, colors, or sweeteners.
  • The product has outstanding customer reviews.

Cons

  • It is hard to mix.
  • Some babies spit it up, which is not a good sign.

 

best baby formula for breastfed babies
Pic: Amazon

7. Similac Alimentum Hypoallergenic Infant Formula

(For Food Allergies and Colic)

Lactose sensitivity and cows’ milk protein allergies can lead to crying, fussiness, growth retardation, and sleep issues in babies/ infants. Therefore unique formulas should be used to overcome these problems. The product we will review is one of its kind available in the market, which is recommended as a hypoallergenic formula and the best baby formula for colic.

Features:

  • It is the best baby formulas for newborns (0-12months)
  • Available in dry powder form and also in ready to feed form.
  • Net weight 12.1 OZ, (343g)

Pros

  • It contains complete nutrition for sensitive tummies.
  • It is the best baby formula for breastfed babies of lactose sensitivity.
  • If your baby is hypoallergenic; still it can be used as an alternative in cows’ milk protein allergies
  • It reduces colic related crying within 24 hours of its use
  • The product contains a predigested protein which, upon entry into the digestive tract, reduces the allergic response
  • It contains iron, which is best for improving the oxygen-carrying capacity of blood cells and, ultimately, cellular respiratory improvement.
  • The formula has up to 30 nutrients for the better growth of your baby.
  • The best formula for colic babies as it contains vitamins and minerals that provide an exclusive immune system and may relieve gas and bloating.
  • It contains vitamin E —as an antioxidant and vitamin D— helps to improve bone growth.

Cons

  • It is expensive as compare to other brands.
  • It also has no prebiotics and probiotics.
best baby formula for breastfed babies
Pic: Amazon

8. Gerber Good Start Soothe (HMO)

⇒ (Best baby formula for gas, fussiness, colic, crying)

Uneasiness and crying are some common problems with infants. There are multiple reasons for these symptoms, but the most common is gas and abdominal colic. Therefore the particular type of formulas are designed to digests quickly and meet the nutritional needs of infants and reduce fussiness, gas, and crying. This is the best baby formula for breastfed babies because of it’s features and pros.

Features:

  • Specially designed milk-based dry powder formula for infants 0-12 months
  • Net wt is 19.4 OZ (549g), available as a pack of 6

Pros

  • Relieves symptoms of fussiness, gas, and crying within 24hrs
  • It also contains comfort proteins plus iron, which is best for improving the oxygen-carrying capacity of blood cells and, ultimately, cellular respiratory improvement.
  • The product is easy to digest.
  • It contains up to 30 nutrients for better growth and the immune system.
  • It also has DHA of organic origin to develop the brain and nervous system.
  • The product is a certified Non-GMO with no artificial growth hormones
  • It contains HMO and probiotics for added immune support.

Cons

  • It may cause constipation and gas in some babies.
  • Mixing the dry Gerber powder with breast milk needs special directions and is not easy.
best baby formula for breastfed babies
Pic: Amazon

9. Love & Care Advantage Infant Formula

⇒ (Best Budget)

It is the best baby formula for breastfed babies because it contains all the nutrients required for your baby’s rapid growth. The best formula must also contain multivitamins and minerals in sufficient quantity and probiotics and prebiotics to help build a robust immune system to fight germs and diseases. We are reviewing this product, which is the best alternative to breast milk.

Features:

  • It is available in dry powder form specially designed for infants (0-12 months)
  • Net wt 12.4 OZ (352g)
  • Contains 20 servings per pack each of 4 fl.oz (17.6),

Pros

  • It contains Human Milk Oligosaccharides (2’-FL HMO), making it more resembling human breast milk.
  • It contains ingredients like Similac pro advance.
  • The product does not contain any artificial growth hormones
  • The product contains iron, which is useful for infants’ better oxygenation and cellular growth.
  • The product comprises prebiotics, which will help to make the immune system healthy.
  • DHA, Lutein, and vitamin E will help improve brain, visual, and body growth, respectively.
  • Non-GMO certified
  • It can be mixed with breast milk, but first, it may be prepared separately in purified water and then added into the breast milk.
  • The product has got some amazing customer reviews on amazon

Cons

  • This product is not recommended to be used in babies with galactosemia.
  • Some babies may spit it up.
  • The sharp edges on the cane may cut your finger—be careful with that.
best baby formula for breastfed babies
Pic: Amazon

10. Enfamil ProSobee

⇒ (best plant base)

Milk-based formulas contain lactose, which may cause restlessness, crying, and fussiness in babies due to colic. This may be overcome if the baby is provided with a plant-based formula, e.g. soy-based. Enfamil ProSobee is one of its kind to provide nutritional support and avoid lactose sensitivity among infants. The following features and benefits make it the best baby formula for breastfed babies.

Features:

  • It is available in dry powder form
  • Net wt 12.9 OZ (366g)

Pros

  • Specially designed for sensitive tummies
  • Plant origin, no milk or dairy source
  • Totally soy based
  • Lactose-free
  • Contain iron
  • Contain DHA & inositol for brain and nervous system growth and supports the immune system
  • Resembles breast milk
  • Gluten-free
  • Contain Multivitamins and minerals
  • Placed as #1 among plant source formulas by pediatricians

Cons

  • No prebiotics and probiotics—no immune support.
  • Soy may contain galactose, which should be avoided in galactosemia
best baby formula for breastfed babies
Pic: Amazon

How to select an ideal formula for your child?

If you have decided to feed your baby with formula or unique formula or in combination with your breast milk, The following points are essential to be considered;

  • The formula should be approved according to the standards of the Food and Drug Administration (USA).
  • Select among the packing type of formula i.e., powder form, liquid concentrate, or ready to feed, each of which has its pros and cons.
  • Select among the types of formulas i.e., cow’s milk-based, soy-based, lactose-free, elemental, for premature babies, amino acid-based formulas, and gentle formulas, considering its advantages and disadvantage.
  • Check for added ingredients and take pediatricians’ advice if there is any product like “Acid Reflux” formulas before use. The formula may contain DHA and ARA, which are long-chain fatty acids and useful in developing visual and nervous systems.
  • Also, check for iron, probiotics/prebiotics, and antioxidants.
  • How much time the formula should be used may also be considered because it makes it economical and avoids switching between formulas until some health issue arises. Feeding with formula is suitable for at least the first year of a baby’s life.
  • You should also consider how much quantity is present in a product in ounces or any other unit because it is a rule of thumb that, from birth till the age of 6 months, the infant may need 2-2.5 ounces per pound body weight per day or as directed by the manufacturer. For example, an infant with a bodyweight of 10 pounds may need 20-25 ounces of formula per day. This will help you to manage your monthly cost of the infant’s nutrition.
  • The formula’s price may be an issue that can be solved by joining a coupon or loyalty program etc.

Why we use formulas?

No supplement or dietary substance or food can indeed replace mothers’ milk, but it may be hard to follow these golden natural rules due to some unfavorable reasons. A few of these reasons are discussed in the following text;

Reasons when a mother cannot breastfeed her baby: if;

  • There is low or no production of milk in a mother’s breast.
    • Hypoplastic breasts; insufficient glandular tissue
    • Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
    • Thyroid insufficiency; hypothyroidism
    • Breast surgery for size reduction or removal of breast in cancer; mastectomy
    • Radiation therapy for breast cancer
  • A mother is unable to produce healthy breast milk.
  • There is an infectious disease that can pass through breast milk, and the risk of disease transmission is high compared to the benefit of breastfeeding. For example, HIV, active TB, HTLV-1, Herpes on the breast,
  • There is some chronic or temporary use of medications or dependency on illegal drugs which may have adverse effects on a baby’s health e.g.
    • Seizure medications
    • Some sedatives
    • Radioactive iodine
    • Chemotherapy agents
    • Antiretroviral medications
    • Or drugs that can have depressive effects on the respiratory or cardiovascular system
  • A mother’s employment is an issue (if no use of breast pump, etc.)
  • A mother wants some extra sleep & rest during the night then feeding the baby with pumped breast milk or added formula, or the father can do the only formula.
  • The mother is unavailable due to specific reasons like the death of the mother etc.

Reasons when a baby cannot breastfeed:

  • There are many situations where a baby cannot directly suck milk from the mother’s breast, e.g., prematurity, cleft lip, and palate, or Down syndrome. Breast pumps can be used to solve these problems, but the following are other conditions where a baby cannot breastfeed even by using a breast pump.
    • Classic galactosemia; a condition in which a baby’s body cannot metabolize galactose, a component of breast milk. This results in some severe problems like jaundice, diarrhea, vomiting, and development related issues.
    • Phenylketonuria (PKU); damage to brain tissues may be caused by the excessive concentration of phenylalanine, an amino acid present in breast milk. Those with PKU positive cannot break down phenylalanine.
    • Maple syrup urine disease; when a baby cannot break down some of the amino acids like leucine, isoleucine, and valine present in breast milk, it leads to accumulations of these substances in the body. This results in sweet maple syrup-like odor of urine, sweat, and earwax & results in poor feeding, sleepiness, seizures, etc.

So, what is the closest formula to breast milk?

As a Pharmacist, I think no single formula can compete with mother milk and all international organizations also recommend breastfeeding babies for at least 6-12 months.

However if due to any reason you can’t feed your baby with natural milk it’s advisable to consult your child specialist.

  • Our top pick here is the Similac advance formula because of its complete nutrition formula and the Amazing customer feedback.
  • The product has got over 4.8/5 rating when the total reviews on Amazon were more than 1100.
  • Also, the price of this formula is also affordable and it comes from a very well known and trusted brand.
  • The taste of this formula is also great and many moms love it.

After considering all of the above reasons, nutritional experts and doctors’ advice to use formula or unique formulas alone or in combination with breast milk to fulfill a baby’s dietary requirements, moreover, a human donor’s breast milk or properly pasteurized animal milk can also be used as alternatives.

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