Did you know that different fat blends used in milk formula may impact the way nutrients are absorbed by your little ones? Research has shown that consumption of milk formula with a fat blend that has no palm oil is associated with better absorption of key nutrients such as docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), archidonic acid (AA) and calcium1,2.
Milk formula with a unique fat blend with no palm olein:
All milk formulas contain a blend of fats. Fat is an important nutrient that children require to provide them with energy to support the rapid brain development that is characteristic of childhood. Long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids – DHA and AA – are important building blocks for development of the brain and eyes in a child.
Here are some tips from Dr. Pedro Alarcon, Pediatric Gastroenterologist, Chicago, Illinois:
1. More might not mean better
Besides looking at the quantity of nutrients listed on the labels, think about the absorption of the nutrients.
2. Read ingredient labels carefully
Look out for the different fat blends in milk formula. Palm oil is often used in milk formula, and may be labelled as “palm olein oil”.
3. Make an informed choice
Scientific evidence showed that a formula with no palm olein improves the absorption of key nutrients such as DHA, AA and calcium – so you do not end up feeding the diaper!
A happy child is one who is feeling comfortable and contented. To know if a formula suits your little one, read their cues. Besides providing relief, the choice of formula should also adequately support the nutritional needs of a rapidly growing child, especially that of the brain, eye and immune system.
Trust your parental instincts. While many of the feeding problems tend to resolve with time, when in doubt, always consult your paediatrician to get a proper assessment and discuss alternatives for feeding.
References:
1 de Souzza CO et al. (2017). Lipids Health Dis. 14i 16(1):78-89
2 Nelson SE et al. (1998). Am J Clin Nutr. 17(4):327-332
3 Alarcon PA et al. (2002). Nutrition 18:482-489
*Compared with formula with palm oil in the fat blend.
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