Best formula for babies with colic
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When I talk about my son’s first year of life, it’s difficult not to go back to that place of sheer exhaustion, overstimulation, anger, and all of the other complicated emotions that come with having a colicky baby. I didn’t have a clue what “colic” entailed pre-kids. I thought the term was used to describe a grumpy baby. In the first two weeks of Finn’s life, I was HUMBLED. Having to find the best formula for my newly diagnosed colicky baby led me to a level of indecision I didn’t think was possible.
CityMom Emily’s baby Finn
First - what is colic?
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), colic is characterized by “inconsolable crying occurring at least three hours per day, at least three days per week, for longer than three weeks.” About 1 in 5 babies develop colic, and there are no studies that point to an exact cause - although some physicians believe it may be exacerbated by an immaturity of the baby’s digestive system (which, as I know all too well, can be a real challenge when selecting a formula).
So, how do you know what formula is going to work best for your colicky baby? I’m going to be honest - it can be a lot of trial and error. Or maybe you’ll find one that works right away, which would be AWESOME.
Here are some popular formulas that worked for Finn and other colicky babies with sensitive bellies:
Hypoallergenic Formulas
A hypoallergenic formula is a type of formula that is designed specifically for babies who may be allergic or sensitive to certain ingredients. These formulas are typically made with extensively hydrolyzed proteins or amino acids that are easier to digest and less likely to cause an allergic reaction. They are often lactose-free formulas, which can be difficult for some babies to digest. It’s important to talk to your baby’s pediatrician when considering a hypoallergenic formula like these!
Top Pick: Similac Alimentum is designed to provide relief for babies struggling with colic, digestive problems, gas, and lactose intolerance. This formula is made with extensively hydrolyzed protein, is lactose-free, and does not contain sucrose. Similac Alimentum is also fortified with essential nutrients to support normal growth and development.
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Here are some other great options to consider:
Enfamil Nutramigen is gentle on babies with allergies or sensitivities. It is also effective for colicky babies or those with gas. Nutramigen is made with extensively hydrolyzed protein, which means that the proteins are broken down into smaller pieces that are easier to digest. This formula is lactose-free and sucrose-free and is often recommended for babies with a cow’s milk allergy.
EleCare is used for infants with severe food allergies, protein intolerances, or gastrointestinal disorders. EleCare is formulated with 100% free amino acids as the protein source, making it easier to digest for infants with sensitive digestive systems. Your pediatrician can assess if your little one would be a good candidate for Elecare, and some insurance plans may help with the cost.
Gerber Good Start Soothe is a partially hydrolyzed formula that is designed to be easy on your baby's stomach. It is made with a blend of proteins that are partially broken down which makes it easier to digest. Gerber Good Start Soothe also contains probiotics, which can help promote healthy digestion and gut health. This formula is a good choice for babies who suffer from colic, gas, or lactose intolerance.
Sensitive Formulas
A sensitive baby formula is a specialized formula designed for babies who may have difficulty digesting regular formulas or have sensitivities to certain ingredients. After trying many of the hypoallergenic formulas for Finn, we landed on a sensitive formula to alleviate some of his symptoms.
Top Pick: Earth’s Best Organic Sensitive is a good choice for parents looking for an organic formula. Earth’s Best is free from artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives, making it a wholesome choice for your little one.
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Here are some other great options to consider:
Enfamil GentleEase is a milk-based infant formula designed to alleviate fussiness, gas, and crying in babies. It contains a unique blend of easy-to-digest proteins patterned after breast milk, with a ratio of 60:40 of whey and casein. The formula is specifically formulated to be gentle on babies' delicate digestive systems and is partially broken down to aid in digestion.
Happy Baby Organics Sensitive is another organic formula option in the sensitive formula category (and happens to be what worked best for both of our kids). It is made from high-quality organic ingredients, providing a safe and natural source of nutrition for your baby. This formula is designed to be gentle on the digestive system, reducing the likelihood of discomfort such as gas and fussiness.
Similac Sensitive is a baby formula designed to support infants with sensitive tummies. It is specially formulated to be easy to digest and gentle on the baby's tummy. This milk-based formula contains a blend of proteins that are broken down into smaller pieces for easier digestion, helping to reduce fussiness, gas, and other discomforts that may arise from sensitive stomachs. Similac Sensitive also includes OptiGRO, a unique blend of DHA, lutein, and vitamin E that supports brain and eye development in infants.
One happy Baby Finn
This list of formula options for colicky babies is a great starting point for finding what works best for your baby. Your pediatrician will be able to assess your baby's symptoms and create a specialized approach to managing colic. From one mom of a colicky baby to another - know that you’re doing the best you can!
