The early stages of infancy and toddlerhood are the most rapid growth periods in a child's life, making it a critical time for bone development. Calcium is essential for building strong bones and teeth, and milk is one of the best sources of this vital nutrient because it is easily absorbed by the body.
Many parents often wonder: Why do babies need formula? Does palm oil in formula affect calcium absorption? To get answers, we spoke with Mr. Qian Xingguo, a renowned pediatric expert at Guangzhou Maternal and Child Health Hospital. He provided two key insights:
First, breastmilk is the ideal food for infants. However, when breastfeeding isn't possible, infant formula is the next best option. While cow’s milk is rich in fat (mainly saturated) and calcium, high levels of these can lead to the formation of "soapy calcium," which may cause constipation and reduce calcium absorption. Additionally, the salt content in cow’s milk—especially calcium—can be harmful to a baby’s developing kidneys. Infant formula is specially designed using milk or goat’s milk as a base, but with adjusted levels of casein, reduced calcium, and lower saturated fats. It also includes whey proteins, vitamins, and other nutrients to mimic breastmilk more closely, ensuring better digestion, absorption, and overall nutrition without overloading the baby’s system. This makes formula a safe and effective alternative to breastmilk when needed.
Second, many infant formulas today use various vegetable oils, including palm oil, to create a balanced fatty acid profile similar to that of breastmilk. While cow’s milk contains trans fats, vegetable oils help reduce them. Refined palm oil, in particular, has a higher proportion of monounsaturated fatty acids and less saturated fat, making it closer to the composition found in breastmilk. Studies have shown that palm oil does not negatively impact calcium absorption, and its use in formulas has been safely practiced for decades. Therefore, the presence of palm oil in formula does not hinder calcium uptake in babies.
In conclusion, breastmilk remains the best choice for feeding infants. If breastfeeding isn’t possible, it’s important to choose a formula that closely matches the nutritional profile of breastmilk, including healthy fats like those found in palm oil. These formulas support proper growth, development, and nutrient absorption without compromising the baby’s health.
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