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The best soy formula for babies may help tackle dairy-related allergies, fussiness, and gas in babies. Soy-based formulas are good alternatives to cow milk-based formulas if your baby is lactose intolerant. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends choosing soy formula as it is safe and nutritious (1).
I took the help of Jenni Hackworth, a nutritionist, yoga trainer, and mom, to choose the best soy formulas for your little one. She says, “If you and your spouse are strictly vegetarian or your child is intolerant to lactose, you may consider soy formula over cow-milk-based formula. However, consult a nutritionist or pediatrician to ensure soy formula is safe and a good option for your baby.”
Read this post as I share some safe and healthy soy formulas specially formulated to help treat your child’s digestion-related issues or meet their nutritional needs.
Top Picks
7 Best Soy Formulas For Babies
1. Best For Sensitive Tummies:Enfamil Plant-Based Baby Formula
Enfamil infant formula contains plant-sourced protein. It is a dairy-free formula for newborns with lactose intolerance and families with unique dietary requirements. This formula is a trusted choice as it helps alleviate fussiness and gas caused by milk-based formulas. It has DHA accounting for 0.32 percent of total fatty acids.
Also Recommended By: Experiencedmommy and Babiesformulamilk have also vouched for the Enfamil Plant-Based Baby Formula.[1]The Best Soy Formula of 2024 https://www.experiencedmommy.com/best-soy-formula/ [2]Top 5 Best Soy Formulas For babies in 2024 https://babiesformulamilk.com/best-soy-formula/
Pros
- Includes vitamins A, C, and E
- No artificial sweeteners and flavors
- Suits sensitive tummies
- No artificial colors
Cons
- May not have a long shelf life
- May have a peculiar smell
Quick Tip2. Best Lactose-Free:Gerber Good Start Gentle Soy Baby Formula
The soy formula helps reduce fussiness and gas caused by milk protein intolerance. It contains expert-recommended DHA and does not have any genetically modified components. The formula is trusted by moms and is enriched with iron and other minerals that promote the child’s overall development, including brain and eye development.
Pros
- Easy to digest
- Suits children aged from nine-24 months
- Non-GMO
- Easy to use
Cons
- Children may not like the taste
- May not be a vegan formula
"I've tried different soy formulas for my baby with a dairy intolerance, and this one has stood out for its digestibility. My little one took to it pretty quickly."
3. Best Artificial Flavors-Free: Earth’s Best Non-GMO Plant-Based Infant Formula
Suitable for the baby’s first twelve months, Earth’s Best soy-based advanced formula is easy to digest and nutritionally adequate. The mom-approved formula includes high-quality carbohydrates, proteins, minerals, vitamins, and vital fatty acids (DHA and ARA) for eye and brain development.
Pros
- USDA-certified organic
- Easy to mix and use
- Kosher-friendly
- Non-GMO
- Lactose-free
Cons
- May lead to constipation
- May have a strange smell
"Having tried different baby formulas, I can say this is one of the best I have tried. It is easy to digest, less gassy, and mimics breast milk closely. The formula blends well, and the organic ingredients gives me peace of mind. I also like that it has no corn syrup."
Quick TipEnfamil Plant-Based Baby Formula Best For Sensitive Tummies | Gerber Good Start Plant-Based Protein Best Lactose-Free | Earth's Best Non-GMO Plant-Based Infant Formula Best Artificial Flavors-Free | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 10 x 10 x 5 inches | 5.4 x 5.1 x 5 inches | 5.15 x 5.15 x 4.9 inches |
| Weight | 5.5 Pounds | 1.5 Pounds | 1.31 Pounds |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 2,348 | 1,112 | 728 |
| Price | $137.4 | $19.98 | $31.96 |
4. Best Palm Oil:Similac Soy Isomil Infant Formula
Similac’s infant formula is nutritionally balanced, lactose-free, and soy-based. It contains an exclusive combination of DHA, lutein, and vitamin E, vital nutrients in breast milk to support a baby’s vision and brain development. It is easy to digest, and the soy’s gentleness can soothe a baby’s delicate tummy.
Pros
- No palm olein oil
- Reduces fussiness and gas
- Rich in iron
- Easy to mix
Cons
- May not suit allergy-prone children
- Some children may experience constipation
"My child's pediatrician recommended this—I can't thank her enough. It has helped with alleviating my baby's discomfort and colic symptoms. It is also easy to digest, and the quality ingredients are a bonus."
5. Best For Brain Development:Enfamil Plant-based Baby Formula
The lactose-free, dairy-free, soy-based formula can be used instead of milk-based baby formula. They come in ready-to-feed bottles, making them convenient for busy moms or late-night feedings. This formula helps relieve fussiness, gas, colic, and other symptoms associated with milk-based formulas. This baby-friendly formula is eligible to be purchased with Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits.
Pros
- Enriched with iron
- Aids brain development
- Nipple ready
- Provides immunity support
Cons
- Some children may not like the taste
- Some children may experience constipation
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
Over 105 customers on Amazon have opined that this is one of the best products in its category.
6. Best Iron-Rich:Gerber Good Start Plant-Based Protein Ready-to-Feed Infant Formula
Gerber soy formula provides soothing nutrition to babies, reducing fussiness and gas caused by milk-protein intolerance. This mommy-approved lactose-free formula is created for newborns who require non-dairy milk alternatives. It contains brain development nutrients like DHA and the pack contains multiple ready-to-use bottles for your convenience.
Pros
- Rich in iron
- Non-GMO
- Easy to digest
- Suitable for children up to12 months
Cons
- Some children may not like the taste
- May have an oily texture
"I have used this formula for my daughter and now my son. It has helped them transition effortlessly from breast milk to formula. The consistency is a bit thick, but I'll stick to this for its quality ingredients."
7. Best Gluten-Free:Mama Bear Soy-Based Powder Infant Formula
The premium infant formula is lactose-free and meant for babies aged up to 12 months. It has over 25 vitamins and minerals, including vitamin E, lutein, and DHA, an omega-three fatty acid, and 100% soy protein to support a baby’s growth and development and reduce gas and fussiness.
Pros
- Contains prebiotics
- Iron-fortified formula
- Gluten-free
- Enhances immunity
Cons
- May have a powdery scent
- May not be easy to mix
"This soy-based formula is a good choice for those in search of dairy-free options. My baby showed less gassiness and improved digestion, and it also made transitioning to a bottle easy."
Disclaimer: The information given in this section has been taken from manufacturers’ sources. MomJunction is not responsible for any of the claims made here. We recommend readers’ discretion.
How To Choose The Right Baby Soy Formulas?
Here are a few essential factors to keep in mind while choosing a baby soy formula.
- Organic: Choose organic formulas that have no pesticides, genetically engineered components, and growth hormones.
- Ingredient: Check the ingredient list to ensure it is easily digestible and a good alternative to dairy products for babies prone to allergies. Consider safety-tested formulas with prebiotics, probiotics, and no preservatives for optimal digestive health.
- Type: You can choose powder formulas or ready-to-feed bottles depending on your needs.
- Development: Ensure the formula is pediatrician-recommended and has expert-approved DHA and other nutrients to promote your child’s eye and brain growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do soy formulas taste different from milk-based formulas?
Yes, soy formula tastes different as its flavor is determined by the base, minerals, vitamins, and sweetener utilized.
2. Will soy formula cause constipation in my baby?
Some soy and cow milk-based formulas generate firmer bowel movements. However, formulas with partially or completely hydrolyzed milk proteins (often known as “hypoallergenic” formulas), which may be suggested for infants with a cow’s milk allergy or sensitivity, may cause loose bowel movements.
3. Can I use soy formula for a preemie?
Pediatricians do not recommend soy formula for preemies, as it might cause reduced bone mineralization in them.
4. Is soy formula good for babies?
Doctors recommend soy formula if parents do not want babies to ingest animal-based protein or if their baby is lactose-intolerant (1). However, some infants may be sensitive to estrogen-like compounds in soy (2). Speak to your doctor before giving soy formula to your baby.
5. Does soy milk make babies poop more?
Yes, to some extent. Infants who consume soy formula have increased bowel movements than infants who drink cow milk.
6. How do you know if the formula isn’t agreeing with the baby?
Whether it is a plant-based formula or cow milk-based formula, your infant would show some signs if they are formula intolerant. Vomit, diarrhea, and fussiness are some common symptoms (1).
7. Will soy formula help with reflux?
Do not offer any soy formula to your baby if they have reflux. Speak to a pediatrician, and they would recommend anti-reflux formulas for your baby (3).
Why Trust MomJunction?
To find the right soy formula for babies, Vibha Navarathna, our in-house writer and researcher of baby products, did extensive research and considered user reviews to include quality products that are safe and effective. Keeping your baby’s safety concerns and quality parameters in mind, she has provided detailed information for each product. The article also consists of a buying guide and FAQ section to help you choose the right one for your baby.
The Bottom Line
Soy formulas are great alternatives to cow’s milk-based formulas if your child is lactose intolerant or your family is strictly vegetarian. They are made with natural ingredients and are free of added colors or flavors. They help meet your child’s nutritional needs and are easy on your little one’s gut. When looking for the right soy formula for your baby, ensure it comprises nutrients, such as calcium, magnesium, vitamin D, selenium, zinc, etc., that promote your child’s growth. You may consider the Enfamil Plant-Based Baby Formula, which is specially designed for sensitive tummies, or the Similac Soy Isomil Infant Formula, which is palm oil-free and nutritionally balanced. Moreover, always consult a pediatrician before adding soy formula or any new dietary supplement to your baby’s diet.
Infographic: What Are The Indications Of Using Soy Formulas For Babies?
Soy formula milk is plant-based formula milk that does not contain whey and casein proteins. You can opt for soy formulas if your baby cannot be fed breast milk and has shown regression toward regular infant formulas. The infographic below includes some more conditions that require switching to soy formulas.
Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
References
- Formula Feeding FAQs: Some Common Concerns
https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/formulafeed-concerns.html - Soy Infant Formula
https://www.niehs.nih.gov/health/topics/agents/sya-soy-formula/index.cfm - Types of formula
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/baby/breastfeeding-and-bottle-feeding/bottle-feeding/types-of-formula/
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