If you are planning to supplement your breastfeeding with European infant formula, or if you plan to exclusively bottle feed, choosing a formula should not be complicated. Plenty of things will confuse you as a new parent, but feeding your child should be one of the easiest choices of all. Here at Mommy Formula, we understand just how much proper nutrition means to your family. We have put together an easy to understand guide that will help you choose the best gentle European infant formula for your child. 

Keep in mind that sometimes it may take a bit of trial and error before you find the perfect European infant formula for your child. Every infant has different tastes and when dealing with gentle formulas finding the one that your infant prefers may take a couple of tries.

Why Choose A Gentle European Infant Formula

Babies enter the world with brand new digestive systems that are no equipped to handle most types of ingredients. Breast milk is perfectly formulated to give infants the nutrition they need to be broken down in a way their bodies can tolerate. For babies who are not breast-feeding, European infant formulas offer the same specially formulated nutrition found in breast milk. Most European infant formulas are made from cow milk proteins and there are also some made from goat milk proteins. 

European infant formula is made to be a safe, whole alternative to breast milk, but sometimes even the best formulations can cause irritation. Infants who suffer from lactose intolerance, colic, gas, or other digestive complications will need a special type of infant formula. Gentle European infant formula is made to be much easier on the stomach and also easier to digest. In most cases, gentle European infant formulas have proteins that are broken down much further than regular infant formulas. This allows sensitive bellies to get the nutrition they need without the discomfort that comes from regular infant formulas.

Kabrita UK Infant Formula

This European infant formula is made with the needs of little bellies in mind. Goat milk is much easier on the stomach than cow milk making it a perfect choice for a gentle formula. Formulated to be as close to breast milk as possible, this healthy European infant milk is loaded with healthy prebiotics and probiotics that will help improve your child’s digestion. In addition to gut boosters, it also has other added minerals and vitamins to help support healthy development. Just because your little one needs a gentle formula doesn’t mean that you have to give up on healthy ingredients.

HiPP Comfort Formula

Any of the European infant formulas on our site can be used to supplement breastfeeding mothers. However, this formula in particular is a great option for supplementing when you have a baby with a sensitive belly. This infant formula is gentle and will help reduce discomfort, colic, and general gastric distress. It is very close to breast milk, so it is the perfect choice for mothers who are doing a combination of breastfeeding and bottle feeding. If you are considering transitioning over to full-time bottle feeding, this also is a great gentle formula that will make the switch easier.

Loulouka Organic Infant Formula

While all European infant formulas are made to be as close to breast milk as possible, this one takes it a step further. Formulated from all organic ingredients, this corn syrup-free infant formula is gentle in babies' stomachs. It is also free of GMOs and has plenty of added vitamins, minerals, and nutrients that your baby needs to thrive.

Holle German Goat Milk Infant Formula

Gas and colic affect a portion of all infants. While colic is less common, gas is normal for at least 50% of all infants. Being formula-fed or breastfed has no bearing in the increase or decrease of gas and colic, but the ingredients in both do come into play. For breastfeeding mothers, it is recommended to change their diet if your child is bothered by constant bouts of gas. For infants who are formula-fed, switching to a gentle formula is a good way to reduce gas which is one of the most common triggers of colic. Holle German Goat Milk Infant Formula is made from partially hydrolyzed proteins which are especially helpful for infants who may be having trouble processing lactose.

HiPP Anti-Reflux Formula

For parents of infants who suffer from acid reflux, GERD, or who are reflux-prone, feeding time can be the hardest part of the day. Not only are these digestive issues painful for your infant, but they also prevent your child from getting the nutrients they need to thrive. HiPP Anti-Reflux Formula is a gentle European infant formula made from partially hydrolyzed protein. The smaller proteins made from are much easier for infants that are reflux-prone to digest. This gentle formula is much easier on little tummies that are extra sensitive and can help your child keep their meals down with less fuss and discomfort.

How To Choose The Right Gentle European Infant Formula

We have listed several of the great gentle options available from European brands, but how do you go about choosing the right one? The options above are only some of the great choices available and you can see more on our site. As far as choosing and introducing a new gentle infant formula to your baby, we have a few suggestions to help ease the transition.

Understanding The Differences In Infant Formula

There are hundreds if not thousands of different infant formula brands in the world, but all of them offer three main types of feeding options. These are; cow’s milk infant formula, goat milk infant formula, and soy milk infant formula. Of course, there are special formulas made for premature infants and those who have special medical needs, but they are generally only available with a prescription. Let’s discuss the three main types of formula and how they affect sensitive infant digestive systems.

European Cow's Milk Infant Formula

For the majority of babies, a European infant formula that is cow’s milk protein-based is suitable. Cow’s milk infant formula has the same amount of calories as human breast milk which is one of the main reasons that it is the first choice. In addition, the ingredients in European Cow’s milk protein-based infant formulas are very close to that of breast milk. The ratio falls around 30% casein and 70% whey, which is the same as breast milk. Human milk also contains a rich blend of natural Omega-3 fatty acids. Most if not all European infant formula brands add Omega-3 fatty acids to their baby formula to maintain this healthy ratio. Omega-3 fatty acids are safe for babies and contribute greatly to proper infant brain development.

European Goat's Milk Infant Formula

European infant formula that is goat’s milk protein-based is another popular choice. Goat’s milk is naturally gentle and much easier for infants to digest. Goats’ milk infant formula also has a similar calorie count as human breast milk which makes it a suitable option for regular feeding. For babies who exhibit fussiness or minor intolerances to cow milk proteins, goat milk is a great alternative. The proteins are much smaller which makes them easier to tolerate. In goat milk, the ratio falls around 20% casein and 80% whey which is one of the main reasons that infants who suffer from stomach sensitivities, colic, reflux, and other digestive problems may have more success with a goat milk-based infant formula. Keep in mind that intolerance is much different than an allergy. A person or infant who is allergic to cow milk proteins will also be allergic to goat milk proteins and even breast milk. Similar to cow milk infant formulas, added nutrients such as iron, omega-3’s, and pro-prebiotics are often added.

Soy Milk Infant Formula

Soy milk infant formulas are a great option for infants who suffer from an allergy to cow or goat milk proteins. Vegan households can also benefit from the use of soy-based infant formula. Pediatricians always recommend breastfeeding or supplementing with a cow or goat milk infant formula. Soy milk is not harmful but is does lack many key nutrients that are only found in human or animal milk. For infants who have allergies, however, soy milk infant formula is an acceptable choice. Soy milk is generally derived from soybeans and other legumes. They also contain isoflavones that are similar to hormones, so parents should be aware that infants who are sensitive to estrogens may also face complications during certain developmental stages. Similar to cow milk and goat milk infant formulas, soy milk infant milk also has added vitamins and minerals that support proper development.

Forms of Gentle European Infant Formula

Once you have chosen the right gentle infant formula for your child, you will need to decide which form is best for your needs. European infant formulas are available in powder form, a liquid form, and ready to feed form. All three types offer the same healthy goodness, it is simply the preparation and the price that differs. 

Liquid European infant formulas are sold as a concentrate. All you will need to do with this type is to add sterilized water in the amount listed on the label. Most liquid forms should be used within 48 hours of the package being opened. Powder European infant formulas will need to be mixed with sterilized water in the amount listed on the label as well. The main difference is that a powder infant formula will have a longer shelf life than liquid forms. Readymade formulas don’t require any sort of mixing. You will only need to heat the milk and feed it to your child. 

The type you choose mainly depends on your lifestyle and your infant formula budget. Of all options, powder form is the most affordable and readymade is the most expensive. They all have the same ingredients, nutrients, and calories regardless of the preparation.

Which Gentle Infant Formula Is Right For Your Family?

With so many variations and options to choose from it can be difficult to understand what the best choice will be. Every child and every family is different, and it will often take a few tries before you find the perfect fit. It is important to focus on your infant's specific needs when choosing the best European infant formula for your family. For fussy babies, a gentle formula will help reduce discomfort and all of our suggestions fall in that category. 

Consider your personal schedule and feeding habits when choosing the type of preparation. If your baby is often in the care of others and you worry about their meals, you can send readymade infant formula to reduce your worries. For backup options, you can also keep a few cans of liquid infant formula on hand for those days you just don’t feel like mixing a bottle. Powder formulas are always a great choice because you can mix your infant bottles on-demand and reduce the amount of milk wasted if they are not interested in feeding as often. 

It is also important to speak with your pediatrician if your child is having trouble feeding. Not all digestive problems are due to lactose intolerance or even allergies. Your pediatrician will be able to evaluate your infant and offer suggestions that will best suit your child’s health and development needs.

Our Final Thoughts On Gentle European Infant Formula

When it comes to picking out the right infant formula for your child, there is so much to think about. The great thing about European infant formulas is that most if not all contain immune-system nourishing prebiotics, omega-3’s, and other minerals that are also found in breast milk. This ensures that even though you are giving your baby a gentler formula, they are still getting the key ingredients they need for proper eye, brain, nervous system, and bone development. As always, Mommy Formula is always here to help you choose the right European infant formula for your baby within your budget.