The baby’s nutrition is one of the top topics in the modern world. Recently there have been a lot of debates about the composition and selection of milk products in baby formulas. One of the top discussions is the dairy debate between cow’s and goat’s milk in organic baby formulas.
This article will provide information about the differences between cow’s and goat’s milk-based baby formulas, their advantages and restrictions, and some formula recommendations.
The cow’s milk advantages and disadvantages
Cow’s milk is a widespread and affordable ingredient for organic baby formula. Cow’s milk is rich in proteins, calcium, phosphor, and vitamins, which are necessary for the healthy growth and development of little ones. Besides, cow’s milk consists of important microelements like zinc and selenium, which supports a baby’s immunity.
Nevertheless, it is important to note that cow’s milk has lactose which can be problematic for some children who are lactose intolerant. Also, there is a risk of allergic reactions to cow’s proteins, which can be harmful to premature babies or babies with allergic hereditary diseases.
The goat’s milk peculiarities
The goat’s milk, for its part, has a few peculiarities which make it appealing for usage in organic baby formulas. Goat milk has a lower lactose level which makes it easier to digest. The goat’s milk proteins also have a different structure which is less allergenic for some children in comparison to cow’s proteins.
Furthermore, goat milk contains more fats, especially monounsaturated fats, which are useful for brain and neural system development. Also, it is rich in magnesium, phosphor, potassium, and vitamins, which contribute to the overall health of the child.
What brand of organic baby formula offers a choice?
HiPP Formula is a brand that has a great variety of organic baby formula choices. The brand aimed to create a formula that is as similar to breast milk as it can be. All the HiPP products, except specialty formulas, are certificated by the EU as organic products and have HiPP organic seal. Nevertheless, the lines of HiPP products in different countries can vary. HiPP Germany offers parents a choice of HiPP organic cow formula or HiPP goat formula.
HiPP stage 2 Dutch was created for babies from 6 months as a follow-on formula after Stage 1. HiPP Dutch offers a formula based on cow’s milk and is not suitable for children with cow’s milk protein allergy (CMPA) or lactose intolerance. Nevertheless, goat milk-based formula can be found in the brand line HiPP Germany. Despite all this, cow-based formulas, such as HiPP stage 2 Dutch, have many advantages. It is a blend of pre and probiotics. This formula mirrors the composition of breast milk. So it is familiar to the baby’s organism. It consists of all the essential ingredients needed for a baby’s health and development as DHA and ARA, omega fatty acids.
When choosing goat milk-based formula over cow milk?
The goat milk-based formula can be a good variant for babies in the following situations:
- The cow’s milk protein allergy. If the baby shows an allergic reaction to cow’s milk-based formula, such as rush, or problems with breathing or digestion, then a formula based on goat’s milk can be a good alternative. The goat milk has a different protein structure and is less allergic.
- Lactose intolerance. Lactose intolerance is detected by the absence or insufficient amount of lactase – an enzyme that breaks down lactose. In such cases, organic formulas based on goat’s milk can be suitable because goat milk has less lactose.
- Traumatization of the digestive tract. Some children may have problems with digesting the cow’s milk. If so, the formula with goat’s milk can be easily digested and well received by little one’s organisms.
- The baby’s preferences. Sometimes the choice between goat and cow milk is based on the baby’s preferences. Some children may feel better about goat’s milk’s taste and structure. That is why such a formula can be an advantage for the baby.
Conclusion
The dairy debate: Cow’s Milk vs. Goat’s Milk in Organic Baby Formulas still goes on. Both kinds of milk have their pros and cons, which should be considered while choosing them for the baby. The individual approach and consultation with doctors and experts are the best way to provide the baby with optimal nutrition according to its needs.