Lost jobs and business during the Covid-19 pandemic have left many families struggling to pay for groceries, including infant formula.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) strongly believes that good nutrition is essential for a healthy future for infants and small children.
Putting their needs first is critical, and there are ways to make this more affordable.
If possible, buy formula online or in the largest sizes available at retail stores, and watch for sales.
Remember to only buy formula from well-recognised distributors and pharmacies.
Avoid formula sold by individuals or on auction sites.
For most babies, it is OK to switch between different milk-based formulas, including store brands, unless your baby is on a specific, highly hydrolysed formula.
If you are unsure, talk with your paediatrician.
Never water down formula! Always follow label instructions or those given to you by your paediatrician.
Watering down formula is dangerous and can cause nutritional imbalances in your baby and lead to serious health problems.
You may be tempted to buy cheaper dairy alternatives, but whole cow’s milk and dairy alternatives are not recommended for infants under 12 months of age.
It is best to stick to breast milk and/or infant formula throughout your baby’s first year, except in a brief emergency.
Toddler formulas are not necessary for infants over 12 months old.
Cow’s milk or fortified soy milk products are less expensive than formula, meet a toddler’s need for milk products, and provide adequate minerals and protein.
You may also want to make your own food for your baby to save money.
The AAP strongly advises against homemade formula, however.
Although recipes for homemade formulas circulating on the Internet may seem healthy and less expensive, they may not be safe or meet your baby’s nutritional needs.
You can make your own baby food when you start your baby on solids, at about six months of age.
There is no need to rely upon premade baby food that are often more expensive.
If you make your own baby food, be sure to include enough protein and iron – two key nutrients for your child’s growth.
Most beans are high in protein and are cheaper than many other protein sources.
Dark green leafy vegetables are a great source of iron.
It’s good to include a variety of fruits and vegetables in your baby’s diet, and you will find that a lot of produce is reasonably priced if you shop around.
Buy frozen vegetables, look for specials, and avoid precut veggies, which are more expensive than whole ones.
Buy produce that is in season and consider a subscription to a box of imperfect fruits and vegetables, which often comes at a discounted price.
You can also freeze food that you make in a blender or food processor for your baby to help it last longer.
Add some chicken or vegetable broth to stretch out a meal.
But be sure not to give honey to an infant under 12 month of age and avoid foods that are choking hazards, such as nuts and raw carrots.
Always remember that you are not alone.
Food pantries, charities and social welfare programmes might be of help.
Your paediatrician also cares about your child’s health and is available to offer suggestions and support. – By Dr Steven A. Abrams/AAP/Tribune News Service
Dr Steven A. Abrams is a paediatrician, professor of paediatrics at the University of Texas at Austin, and an AAP member.
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