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Whole Food, Plant-Based Baby Formula: Alternatives When Breastfeeding Isn't an Option

From Theresa "Sam" Houghton, T. Colin Campbell Center for Nutrition Studies
August 2022


If you’re unable to breastfeed for any reason but want to raise your baby on a whole food, plant-based (WFPB) diet, there are several options—including plant-based baby formula—that can provide a nutritionally complete diet for your baby.

T. Colin Campbell

Not all mothers are able to breastfeed. Illness, previous breast surgery, and conditions like polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), hypothyroidism, or underdeveloped breasts can make it difficult to produce enough milk.[2] Some medications unsafe for babies can contaminate breast milk.[3] And not all employers provide sufficient maternity leave to allow for a full six months of breastfeeding.

If you’re unable to breastfeed for any reason but want to raise your baby on a whole food, plant-based (WFPB) diet, there are several options—including plant-based baby formula—that can provide a nutritionally complete diet for your baby.

If breastfeeding problems persist or you have a condition that makes breastfeeding difficult, you can try a baby formula made with plant-based ingredients.

This gets a little tricky if you’re looking for something WFPB. Most infant formulas contain processed sweeteners, isolated nutrients, and extracted proteins. That’s because the FDA’s standards for formulas are based on the specific combination of nutrients that babies need to thrive. Fortification is necessary for formulas to meet these standards.

Avoid homemade plant-based baby formula

Whatever you do, don’t turn to the internet for baby formula recipes. Breast milk contains a balance of over 30 nutrients, and it’s difficult—if not impossible—to match that balance in your kitchen.

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All-Creatures.org Health Position and Disclaimer

We began this archive as a means of assisting our visitors in answering many of their health and diet questions, and in encouraging them to take a pro-active part in their own health. We believe the articles and information contained herein are true, but are not presenting them as advice. We, personally, have found that a whole food vegan diet has helped our own health, and simply wish to share with others the things we have found. Each of us must make our own decisions, for it's our own body. If you have a health problem, see your own physician.