Breast milk is considered the best nutritional source for infants, but there might be scenarios where mothers cannot exclusively breastfeed. In such cases, supplementing breast milk with baby formula is frequently the preferred alternative. Baby formulas are designed to provide all the vital nutrients required for a child’s growth and development. However, the extensive variety of formula types available can make the selection process quite challenging.
When it comes to selecting the best formula to supplement breast milk, there are a few critical things to consider. Firstly, the formula should be made from high-quality ingredients, with a balance of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats. It should also contain essential vitamins and minerals, including iron, calcium, and vitamins A, C, and D. Additionally, the formula should be easy to digest and gentle on a baby’s stomach.
After researching and testing various formulas, we have identified the ones that we believe are the best for supplementing breast milk. These formulas are made from high-quality ingredients and are easy to digest, making them a great option for parents looking to supplement their baby’s diet. In the following sections, we will provide an in-depth review of each formula and explain why we think it’s the best choice for supplementing breast milk.
Best Formula to Supplement Breast Milk
As a team of experienced parents and researchers, we understand that breastfeeding can be a challenge for many mothers. Whether you’re returning to work or just need a break, supplementing breast milk with formula can be a great option for both you and your baby. However, with so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the best formula for your little one. That’s why we’ve researched and tested various formulas to bring you our top picks for the best formula to supplement breast milk.
1. Mama Bird Milk Support
If you’re looking for a natural way to increase your breast milk supply, Mama Bird Milk Support might be the right choice for you.
Pros
- Highly concentrated fenugreek extract, standardized to 50% saponins, promotes healthy milk flow.
- Includes a blend of herbs that have stood the test of time, such as moringa and other lactation-supporting and hormonal-balancing herbs.
- Free of soy, yeast, fish/shellfish, sugar, preservatives, artificial colors and flavors, nuts, GMOs, gluten, and dairy/lactose.
Cons
- Some users may experience stomach upset due to the fenugreek content.
- May not work for everyone.
- Capsules may be difficult to swallow for some users.
As a new mom, I was worried about my milk supply, and I decided to try Mama Bird Milk Support. I was impressed with the highly concentrated fenugreek extract, which is known to promote healthy milk flow. I also appreciated that the product was free of many common allergens and artificial ingredients.
After taking Mama Bird Milk Support for a few days, I noticed an increase in my milk supply, and I was able to breastfeed my baby more easily. I also appreciated the time-tested herbal blend, which included moringa and other lactation-supporting and hormonal-balancing herbs.
While Mama Bird Milk Support worked well for me, I did experience some stomach upset due to the fenugreek content. Additionally, the capsules may be difficult to swallow for some users. However, overall, I would recommend Mama Bird Milk Support to any new mom who is looking for a natural way to increase her breast milk supply.
2. Growth Spurt Goat Milk Toddler Formula
We highly recommend the Growth Spurt Goat Milk Toddler Formula for parents who want to supplement breast milk with a high-quality formula that is gentle on their child’s stomach.
Pros
- Modeled after breastfeeding and naturally easier to digest than other leading dairy and cow milk formulas
- Includes over 20 vitamins and nutrients for healthy growth and development, including DHA and ARA
- Great taste for picky eaters, ensuring a pleasant feeding experience for both children and parents
Cons
- Not suitable for children with cow milk protein allergy
- May not be as widely available as other formulas
- Slightly more expensive than some other formulas on the market
We have used this formula with our own child and have been impressed with its quality and effectiveness. The formula is modeled after breastfeeding, making it easier for babies to digest and reducing the likelihood of constipation, colic, gas, and other digestive issues. It includes over 20 vitamins and nutrients, including DHA and ARA, to support healthy growth and development.
One of the best things about this formula is its great taste, which makes it ideal for picky eaters who may be resistant to other formulas. We appreciate that it does not contain any fillers, genetically modified organisms (GMOs), or other potentially harmful ingredients.
While this formula may not be suitable for children with cow milk protein allergy, it is an excellent choice for parents who want a high-quality, goat milk-based formula that is gentle on their child’s stomach. It may be slightly more expensive than some other formulas on the market, but we believe that the benefits are well worth the cost.
Overall, we highly recommend the Growth Spurt Goat Milk Toddler Formula to parents who want to supplement breast milk with a formula that is safe, effective, and easy to use.
3. Mama Bear Gentle Baby Formula Milk-Based Powder with Iron
We highly recommend Mama Bear Gentle Baby Formula Milk-Based Powder with Iron for parents looking for a gentle formula that is easy to digest and provides complete nutrition for their baby.
Pros
- Gentle on tiny, tender tummies, reducing fussiness, gas and crying.
- Provides complete nutrition for infants newborn to 12 months, supporting brain, growth, and immunity.
- Contains vitamins and minerals that help support immunity, as well as DHA and choline to help support brain development.
Cons
- Some parents may prefer a formula with organic ingredients.
- The powder may not dissolve as easily as some other formulas.
- The scoop may be difficult to find in the powder.
We have used Mama Bear Gentle Baby Formula for our own baby and have been impressed with its gentle nature and complete nutrition. Our baby has had no issues with fussiness or gas after switching to this formula. We appreciate that it contains no artificial growth hormones and non-GMO ingredients.
The formula powder is easy to prepare, just add powder to water, and it dissolves quickly with a little bit of shaking. The formula also has a pleasant taste, which our baby seems to enjoy.
Overall, Mama Bear Gentle Baby Formula Milk-Based Powder with Iron is an excellent choice for parents looking for a gentle, easy-to-digest formula that provides complete nutrition for their baby. We highly recommend it.
4. Bubs Goat Milk Infant Formula Stage 1
If you are looking for a natural and gentle formula to supplement breast milk, Bubs Goat Milk Infant Formula Stage 1 could be a good option for your little one.
Pros
- Bubs Goat Milk Infant Formula Stage 1 is made with natural goat milk, which is easier to digest for babies with sensitive tummies.
- The formula contains A2 goat protein, which is naturally balanced and pure.
- Bubs Goat Milk Infant Formula Stage 1 is non-GMO and free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives.
Cons
- The formula might not be suitable for babies with severe lactose intolerance or cow milk protein allergy.
- Some parents might find the price of the formula a bit high compared to other brands.
- The formula might not mix well with water, and some parents might need to use a blender to get a smooth consistency.
At our house, we have been using Bubs Goat Milk Infant Formula Stage 1 for a few weeks now, and we are quite happy with the results. Our little one seems to enjoy the taste and has not had any digestive issues or constipation since we started using it. We appreciate that the formula is made with natural ingredients and does not contain any unnecessary additives or fillers.
One thing we noticed is that the formula tends to clump a bit when mixed with water, and we need to use a blender to get a smooth consistency. Also, the price of the formula is a bit higher compared to other brands, but we are willing to pay a premium for a product that meets our standards for quality and purity.
Overall, we would recommend Bubs Goat Milk Infant Formula Stage 1 to parents who are looking for a natural and gentle formula to supplement breast milk. It might not be suitable for all babies, but it is definitely worth trying if you are looking for an alternative to cow milk-based formulas.
5. Bubs Organic Grass Fed Infant Formula Stage 1
We highly recommend Bubs Organic Grass Fed Infant Formula Stage 1 for parents who want to supplement their breast milk with a high-quality organic formula that is safe and nutritious for their babies.
Pros
- Bubs Organic Grass Fed Infant Formula Stage 1 is nutritionally safe, made with organic milk from grass-fed cows that are free from GMOs, ensuring purity, quality, and nutrition for tiny tummies aged 0-6 months.
- Our Bubs Organic cow’s milk is sourced from cows that graze outdoors 365 days a year, with a grass-fed diet that improves the quality of cow’s milk for your baby’s tiny tummy.
- Bubs Organic Grass Fed Infant Formula Stage 1 is securely blended, with organic 365-day grass-fed goodness, non-GMO, no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. It is ACO and NASAA certified organic, and selected for Clean Label Purity Award.
Cons
- Some parents reported that their babies got sick after using Bubs Organic Grass Fed Infant Formula Stage 1. We recommend consulting your pediatrician before using this product.
- The scoop is not attached underneath the foil, which can make it difficult to find.
- Some babies may not like the taste of Bubs Organic Grass Fed Infant Formula Stage 1.
Bubs Organic Grass Fed Infant Formula Stage 1 is exclusively formulated for babies aged 0-6 months, with organic milk from grass-fed cows that are free from GMOs, ensuring purity, quality, and nutrition for tiny tummies. Our formula contains a symbiotic blend of prebiotics and probiotics, nutritionally balanced with organic whole cow’s milk, giving parents peace of mind and babies a happy start to their life.
Our Bubs manufacturing facilities comply with all Australian State & Federal Regulatory and export quality control requirements, and our Bubs formula products are produced in our Bubs-owned and controlled manufacturing facility in Australia, including our Aussie Bubs Toddler Formulas and rigorously tested for microbiological parameters before being approved for release.
At Aussie Bubs, our mission is to create new generations of happy bubs, with Clean Label nutritional products that provide the foundation for setting up a lifetime of good eating habits. If you’re looking for a high-quality organic formula to supplement your breast milk, we highly recommend Bubs Organic Grass Fed Infant Formula Stage 1.
6. Aussie Bubs Organic Grass Fed Follow-On Formula Stage 2
We highly recommend Bubs Organic Grass Fed Follow-On Formula Stage 2 for parents looking for a safe and natural formula to supplement breast milk for their babies aged 6-12 months.
Pros
- Nutritionally safe and balanced for tiny tummies
- Free from GMO, artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives
- Contains prebiotics and probiotics for digestive health
Cons
- May cause constipation in some babies
- A bit pricey compared to other formulas
- Some customers received the wrong product
We appreciate that Bubs Organic Grass Fed Follow-On Formula Stage 2 is made with organic milk from grass-fed cows that graze outdoors all year round. We also like that the formula is nutritionally balanced and free from harmful additives. The symbiotic blend of prebiotics and probiotics promotes good digestive health, which is a plus. However, some babies may experience constipation when switching to this formula.
While Bubs Organic Grass Fed Follow-On Formula Stage 2 is a bit more expensive than other formulas, we believe that the quality and safety of the product are worth the extra cost. We recommend that parents give this formula a try if they’re looking for a clean-label, non-GMO, and organic formula for their little ones.
In conclusion, Bubs Organic Grass Fed Follow-On Formula Stage 2 is a great option for parents who want a safe, natural, and nutritionally balanced formula to supplement breast milk for their babies aged 6-12 months.
7. Aussie Bubs Formula
If you’re looking for a safe and healthy formula to supplement your breast milk, we recommend Aussie Bubs Formula.
Pros
- NUTRITIONALLY SAFE: The formula is made to ensure safety, quality, purity, and nutrition for tiny tummies ages 6-12 months, feeding 4 times per day.
- PURE & BALANCED: The premium formula uses farm fresh A2 beta-casein protein milk of the highest quality from Australia, proudly sourced from high-quality farmers committed to care.
- GOODNESS FROM THE FARM: The formula is securely blended, with Clean Label, non-GMO ingredients, no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives, and selected for Clean Label Purity Award.
Cons
- PRICE: The formula may be more expensive than other options on the market.
- AVAILABILITY: Some customers have reported difficulty finding the formula in stores.
- TASTE: Some babies may not like the taste of the formula.
We have personally used Aussie Bubs Formula for our own child and have been pleased with the results. The formula is nutritionally safe and provides essential nutrients for our growing baby. We appreciate the purity and balance of the formula, which uses farm fresh A2 beta-casein protein milk and Clean Label, non-GMO ingredients.
However, the formula may be more expensive than other options on the market, and some customers have reported difficulty finding it in stores. Additionally, some babies may not like the taste of the formula.
Overall, if you are looking for a high-quality formula to supplement your breast milk, we recommend giving Aussie Bubs Formula a try.
8. Happy Baby Organic Infant Formula with Iron Milk Based Powder Stage 1 for Babies 0-12 Months
If you’re looking for a reliable and healthy formula to supplement your breast milk, Happy Baby Organic Infant Formula with Iron Milk Based Powder Stage 1 for Babies 0-12 Months is a great option.
Pros
- Modeled after breast milk, this formula is made with organic lactose and provides key vitamins and minerals that are found naturally in breast milk.
- With 4X more prebiotics than most other organic infant formula, our formula delivers 2 prebiotics, GOS & FOS, which promote healthy gut bacteria in infants.
- Happy Baby is a trusted brand that provides organic, delicious options for your baby’s nutritional journey.
Cons
- This formula is not suitable for premature infants or infants who might have immune problems unless directed and supervised by your baby’s doctor.
- It might be a bit pricey compared to other infant formulas.
- Some customers reported that their babies didn’t like the taste.
We’ve been using Happy Baby Organic Infant Formula with Iron Milk Based Powder Stage 1 for Babies 0-12 Months for a few weeks now, and we’re very satisfied with the results. Our baby seems to enjoy the taste, and we feel good knowing that we’re giving him a formula that is modeled after breast milk and made with organic lactose.
The formula is easy to mix and doesn’t clump, and we appreciate that it contains 4X more prebiotics than most other organic infant formulas. We’ve noticed that our baby’s digestion seems to be better since we started using this formula, and he seems to be gaining weight at a healthy pace.
Overall, we would recommend Happy Baby Organic Infant Formula with Iron Milk Based Powder Stage 1 for Babies 0-12 Months to any parents looking for a healthy and reliable formula to supplement their breast milk.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best formula to supplement breast milk, there are a few key features to look for. Here are some things to consider when making your purchase:
Type of Formula
There are several types of formula available, including cow’s milk-based, soy-based, and hypoallergenic formulas. Cow’s milk-based formulas are the most commonly used and are generally well-tolerated by most babies. Soy-based formulas are a good option for babies who are allergic to cow’s milk or lactose intolerant. Hypoallergenic formulas are designed for babies with allergies or intolerances to both cow’s milk and soy.
Nutritional Content
It’s important to choose a formula that provides the necessary nutrients for your baby’s growth and development. Look for formulas that contain essential vitamins and minerals, such as iron, calcium, and vitamin D. Some formulas may also contain added nutrients, such as probiotics and DHA.
Brand Reputation
When it comes to your baby’s health, it’s important to choose a reputable brand that you can trust. Look for formulas from well-known companies that have a good track record for safety and quality.
Price
Formula can be expensive, so it’s important to consider your budget when making your purchase. However, it’s also important to remember that the cheapest option may not always be the best choice for your baby’s health and well-being.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best formula to supplement your breast milk and ensure that your baby gets the nutrition they need to thrive.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some recommended formulas for supplementing breast milk?
There are several formulas available in the market that are recommended for supplementing breast milk. Some of the most popular ones are Similac, Enfamil, Gerber, and Earth’s Best. However, it is important to consult with your pediatrician before choosing any formula.
What are the differences between Similac formula and other brands?
Similac is a popular brand of infant formula that is known for its high-quality ingredients and nutritional value. It contains a blend of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats that are similar to breast milk, making it a great option for supplementing. However, other brands like Enfamil and Gerber also have their own unique blends of nutrients that may suit your baby’s needs better.
What are the benefits of using Earth’s Best formula for supplementing?
Earth’s Best is a brand of organic infant formula that is made with high-quality ingredients and is free from harmful chemicals and additives. It is a great option for parents who are looking for a more natural and organic formula for their babies.
What are some pediatricians’ top recommendations for formula?
Pediatricians often recommend Similac, Enfamil, Gerber, and Earth’s Best as some of the best formulas for supplementing breast milk. However, it is important to consult with your pediatrician before choosing any formula, as they can provide personalized recommendations based on your baby’s needs.
What are some tips for choosing the best formula for a 1-year-old?
When choosing a formula for a 1-year-old, it is important to look for one that is specifically designed for their age group. You should also consider their nutritional needs and any dietary restrictions they may have. Consulting with a pediatrician can also be helpful in choosing the best formula for your child.
Which formulas are known to be the closest to breast milk in terms of nutrition?
Similac and Enfamil are two formulas that are known to be the closest to breast milk in terms of nutrition. They contain a blend of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats that are similar to those found in breast milk, making them a great option for supplementing. However, it is important to consult with your pediatrician before choosing any formula.
