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Top 5 Best Baby Formulas to Supplement Breastfeeding

Written by Andrew Le, MD

UpdatedNovember 13, 2024

Breastfeeding is the best way through which a newborn can be fed. But unfortunately there are times when for one reason or another the mother cannot exclusively breast feed the babies. In such cases, it is also safe to add baby formula to the diet of the child whom needs to be breastfeed. Baby formula is a specially prepared meal for a baby to cater for all the nutritional needs a baby has. It comes in different forms; especially as a powder, liquid and even as a ready to feed formula.

We devoted much time to search for the most suitable baby formulas for the complementary feeding and offer you the list of the most suitable ones. Below, you will find the list of the best baby formulas that fit our criteria and give our detailed analysis of each product.

Top 3 Best Baby Formula to Supplement Breastfeeding

  1. Growth Spurt Goat Milk Toddler Formula
  2. Pure Bliss by Similac Infant Formula
  3. Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive Infant Formula

We fully support breastfeeding, of course, but at the same time, we know that not every mother will be able to breastfeed their child. This is why below we have assembled what we consider as the best baby formula for the supplemental feeding. Whether you want to stick to products that are completely free of chemicals or formula that will sit lightly on your baby’s stomach, we can help.


Growth Spurt Goat Milk Toddler Formula

Editor's Choice

Growth Spurt Goat Milk Toddler Formula

Growth Spurt Goat Milk Toddler Formula is the ultimate gentle-on-the-tummy choice for toddlers with digestive sensitivities, packed with breast milk-like nutrients like lactoferrin, 2’FL HMO, prebiotics, and probiotics. Made in the USA with premium ingredients, it’s backed by a lifetime guarantee for parents’ peace of mind.

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Growth Spurt Goat Milk Toddler Formula is ideal for parents who decided to combine breastfeeding with the help of an excellent formula.

Pros

  • The Growth Spurt is based on the breastfeeding style, which is much easier to digest compared to other forms of the available dairy and cow milk formulas.
  • It comprises more than 20 vitamins and nutrients for proper growth of the toddler; DHA as well as ARA.
  • It has a delicious taste that makes it very appealing to the rather choosy child, hence making feeding a pleasant experience for both the child and parent.

Cons

  • It may not be readily available for international shipping.
  • It is not recommended to children with cow milk protein allergy.

Growth Spurt Goat Milk Toddler Formula is one of the best options that parents should consider when looking for a specific formula that is easy on the stomach, and poses no cause for concern to the parents. It may be used to help aid with cow milk protein sensitivity and constipation, congestion, colic, gas, spit-up, fussiness, crying, sensitive stomach, and other forms of digestive orders. It is formulated with lactoferrin, 2’FL HMO, prebiotics, and bifidobacteria probiotics present in breast milk to provide you with the best, unparalleled toddler formula drink out there.

The formula contains a more absorbable form of methylfolate instead of folic acid, which is a fantastic folate, methylated B vitamins for MTHFR. It is produced in the USA in a modern plant to ensure that all consumables are purified and of the highest quality in each beverage. Your Growth Spurt Formula has a lifetime money back guarantee, it will help you get the extra edge most college students need.


Pure Bliss by Similac Infant Formula

Pure Bliss by Similac Infant Formula

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We recommend Pure Bliss by Similac Infant Formula for parents who are searching for a formula to supplement breastfeeding.

Pros

  • Based on the breast milk, does not contain strong enzymes that may upset the delicate stomach of the babies.
  • No growth hormones administered, no antibiotics and non genetically modified.
  • Supplements with DHA and ARA for the brain’s and the eyes’ development.

Cons

  • Some babies may not like the taste
  • It is a bit expensive

We have personally used Pure Bliss by Similac Infant Formula and found it good for the supplementation of breastfeeding babies. I do not have to spend much time cooking it and our baby did not complain of stomach upset after taking it. We acknowledge that is free from artificial growth hormones, has no antibiotics and is of non-Gene modified.

Furthermore, it resembles the breast milk and includes DHA and ARA both of which are beneficial to brain and eye development. My baby has been on this formula and achieved developmental milestones as expected for his age.

However, some babies do not like the taste of this formula and end up rejecting the formula. Also, it should be noted that there can be constipation in some babies when this formula is applied. It also indicated that this formula is relatively costly as compared to the other types of formulas available in the market.


Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive Infant Formula

Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive Infant Formula

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We recommend Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive Infant Formula for parents who are looking for a gentle nutrition formula.

Pros

  • It is perhaps the closest sensitive formula to breast milk that has ever existed.
  • Exclusive blend of prebiotics
  • 360 whole-baby support

Cons

  • Contains corn syrup
  • It is a bit expensive

Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive Infant Formula is a game-changer especially for those babies with sensitive stomachs. Lactose intolerance is triggered by digestive upset which causes fussiness and gas and since it is a mildly abrasive product, it is gentle on the stomach. The good thing about it is that it has 5 HMO prebiotics that are structurally exclusive to breast milk, and these enhance the immune system, brain functions, and gut health.

Also, Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive Infant Formula bananas are non-GMO and free from artificial growth hormones. This makes it a very healthy food and a good food option for your tiny kid to take.

However, this formula includes corn syrup which cannot be used sometimes as a supply for babies. Also, it is relatively expensive as compared to the other brands of formula recently in the market and not good for a parent with a tight budget.


Earth's Best Organic Sensitive Baby Formula

Earth's Best Organic Sensitive Baby Formula

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If you are searching for an organic baby formula which does not upset a baby’s stomach Earth’s Best Organic Sensitive Baby Formula might be helpful.

Pros

  • This formula is ideal for the babies that show symptoms of fussiness, gas, and crying due to lactose sensitivity, lactose intolerance or sensitive stomachs.
  • It possess lutein, prebiotics, and DHA and ARA, that helps in immunity, brain growth, and eye growth.
  • It comes from grass and grain fed cows, organic milk, so you are sure your baby is getting only the best.

Cons

  • Some babies may not like the taste of this formula
  • The formula can be expensive

We decided to feed our baby with Earth’s Best Organic Sensitive Baby Formula and up to now the results have been pleasing. This formula seems suitable for our baby because she has a sensitive stomach, and this formula has relieved her from fussing and gassy. Another one is It is easy to prepare; the direction on the container is clear and understandable. We understand that this is an unprocessed formula and the product contains high quality components.

However, the formula may not be recommended for the severely lactose intolerant babies. Though it has less lactose, it still has some lactose content; therefore, consult your pediatrician before using the formula if your baby has severe Lactose intolerance.

In a nutshell, for the parents who are seeking for the organic and gentle formula for the babies, we recommend Earth’s Best Organic Sensitive Baby Formula. Although this formula is rather pricey compared to the pensions available in the market, its advantages make it worth the money.


Enfamil A.R. Infant Formula

Enfamil A.R. Infant Formula

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For those who need a baby formula as a supplement to breastfeeding, Enfamil A. R. Infant Formula is absolutely for your attention.

Pros

  • Minimizes spit-ups by over 50% in 1 week
  • Dual prebiotic formula for immune health
  • Brain nourishing DHA

Cons

  • May cause constipation in some babies
  • It is a bit expensive

To support the proper nutrition and well being of your infant up to twelve months of age, count on the Enfamil A. R. which decreases spitting up by more than half of what a baby normally does. It comes in a thick consistency than the normal formula hence can help to minimize the spitting up. The formula is also fortified with brain benefiting DHA to assist in your little one’s brain and eye health. Also, it offers dual prebiotic formula, which supports the immune health and complete nutrition for the baby up to one year of age.

However, Enfamil A. R. Infant Formula can lead to constipation in some of the babies taking the product. It is also pricier in comparison to other Magnum pet formulas being sold on the market. The thickness of the formula may mean that the size of the nipple needed is relatively large, which are less convenient.

In conclusion, Enfamil A. R. Infant Formula can be recommended for parents who are in search of a formula that can help in cutting the number of spits while at the same time it can be used as a complementary to breast milk.

Buying Guide

After going through the list of the best baby formula to use especially to infants who are breast fed, it is important to highlight of the special features to look at. Here are some things to keep in mind when making your decision:

Type of Formula

There are several types of baby formula available, including cow’s milk, based on soy, for babies with allergies, and organic formula. Formula made from cow’s milk is the most popular and is generally safe for use by majority of babies. There are SVF’s which is soy-based formula that can be administered to the babies who have complications when taking the normal cow milk. Special baby formulas are availability for the babies who are allergic to the cow milk or those babies who have problem with soy intolerance.

Age Range

Concerning the delicate nutritional requirements of the babies, most of the baby formulas are formulated according to the age of the baby, for instance 0-6months or 6-12 months of age. The use of formula should also be according to the age of the baby so that they can receive those nutrients that belong to their age.

Nutritional Content

All baby formulas need to have certain nutrients, but there may be other nutrients in each formula or some of the formulas may contain additives. Both iron and calcium can be found in some formulas along with Vitamin D Other additional nutrients include prebiotics/probiotics.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the closest formula to breast milk?

There is no direct formula, that is, mixture that can be prepared to mimic the characteristics of breast milk, but some formulas are closer to it. In this regard, formulas that include whey protein, lactose, and a mixture of vegetable oils are deemed the closest to the moistened BM.

What formula is best for supplementing with breast milk?

Supplementing with breast milk requires a good formula that does not have a negative impact to the child’s system such as causing constant diarrhea or giving the child a rash. The foods that are commonly suggested to complement include Enfamil Enspire formula, Similac Pro-Advance formula, Gerber Good Start Gentle formula and many others.

Is it safe to supplement breastfeeding with formula?

Yes, it is safe to give foods apart from breast milk through giving the baby bottled foods. In fact, the original article pointed out that a large number of mothers add on formula feeding so as to guarantee adequate nutrients and energy to their babies. Nevertheless, before changing a type of baby’s food, a pediatrician should be consulted.

How do you fortify breast milk with formula?

To fortify breast milk with formula, all you have to do is take the required quantity of formula powder and mix with water in the recommended proportion stated on the packet. After that, pour it to a bottle of breast milk and shake well before feeding to the child.

What are the best formula options for gassy babies?

Some of the available formulas include those that have pre biotic and probiotic strains which are beneficial to the baby’s stomach and assists in reducing gas production. When it comes to deflating baby formulas that are commonly suggested for gassy babies, some are Enfamil Gentlease, Similac Total Comfort, and Gerber Soothe.

What are the top pediatrician-recommended formula brands for supplementing breastfeeding?

Currently, some of the best formulas containing nutrients that may complement the actual breast milk include Enfamil, Similac, and Gerber formula brands that are most endorsed by pediatricians. However it is advised to seek the advice of a pediatrician on which formula is most suitable for the baby.

What is the closest formula to breast milk?

While no formula can replicate the exact composition of breast milk, some formulas come closer than others. Formulas that contain whey protein, lactose, and a blend of vegetable oils are often considered the closest to breast milk.

What formula is best for supplementing with breast milk?

The best formula for supplementing with breast milk is one that is easy to digest and does not cause digestive issues or allergies. Some formulas that are often recommended for supplementing include Enfamil Enspire, Similac Pro-Advance, and Gerber Good Start Gentle.

Is it safe to supplement breastfeeding with formula?

Yes, it is safe to supplement breastfeeding with formula. In fact, many mothers choose to supplement with formula to ensure their babies are getting enough nutrients and calories. However, it is important to consult with a pediatrician before making any changes to your baby's diet.

How do you fortify breast milk with formula?

To fortify breast milk with formula, simply mix the desired amount of formula powder with water according to the instructions on the package. Then, add the mixture to a bottle of breast milk and shake well before feeding.

What are the best formula options for gassy babies?

For gassy babies, formulas that contain prebiotics and probiotics can help promote healthy digestion and reduce gas. Some formulas that are often recommended for gassy babies include Enfamil Gentlease, Similac Total Comfort, and Gerber Soothe.

What are the top pediatrician-recommended formula brands for supplementing breastfeeding?

Some of the top pediatrician-recommended formula brands for supplementing breastfeeding include Enfamil, Similac, and Gerber. However, it is important to consult with a pediatrician to determine the best formula for your baby's specific needs.

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