5 Alternatives to Nutramigen for Gentle Digestion
Explore a range of gentle formula options tailored to support your baby's digestive health and nutritional needs at the early stages of growth, offering safe and effective Nutramigen alternatives
Published July 31, 2024.
When it comes to managing food allergies in infants, Nutramigen has been a go-to hypoallergenic formula for many parents. Known for containing the probiotic LGG, which helps soothe colic and reduce allergy symptoms, Nutramigen has proven its effectiveness in numerous studies.
However, recent concerns about processed ingredients, allergens, and a recent recall have led some parents to seek alternatives. Let's explore some of the best Nutramigen formula alternatives that cater to a baby's various dietary needs and preferences at different stages.
» Explore yummy, organic, plant-based nutrition for a healthy start
Our picks for the top 5 Nutramigen formula alternatives
1. Best organic Nutramigen alternative: Else Nutrition
2. Best amino acid-based formula: Abbott EleCare Hypoallergenic
3. Best prebiotic-enhanced formula: Happy Baby®️ Organics
4. Best lactose-free formula: Sprout Organic
5. Best formula for colic relief: Enfamil NeuroPro Gentlease Formula
A brief overview of the Nutramigen formula
Nutramigen is a specialized hypoallergenic baby formula made to manage food allergies and cow’s milk allergies. It is the only formula that contains LGG, a probiotic that has been shown to help soothe colic and cow’s milk allergy symptoms. Its efficacy is backed by over 80 peer-reviewed studies, where it has been clinically shown to reduce the risk of future allergic reactions, including asthma and eczema.
» Recognize signs and symptoms of milk allergy in babies
Why do parents look for alternatives to Nutramigen?
- Processed Ingredients: Nutramigen contains many processed ingredients, including corn syrup and vegetable oils, that you might want to avoid feeding to your baby.
- Allergens: Nutramigen contains soy and corn, which are major allergens that the baby could be sensitive to if he/she is already displaying allergy symptoms.
- Recent Recall: In January 2024, Nutramigen was recalled due to the potential for bacteria contamination. While this is likely sorted out now, it does degrade consumer confidence in the product.
» Explore more milk and dairy alternatives for babies and toddlers
Key ingredients to look for when choosing a formula for gentle digestion
| Nutritional content: | You want to choose a formula that has the right mix of protein, carbohydrates, fat, and micronutrients like vitamins and minerals. While most options on the market are well-balanced, the sources of these nutrients often differ. |
| Ease of digestion: | Many formulas offer different sources of carbohydrates and protein, particularly protein size, to ease the baby's digestion, depending on the baby's needs. |
| Added benefits: | Some formulas have added nutrients like prebiotics, probiotics, ARA, and DHA, which are all found in human breast milk. This helps the formula be as similar to mom’s milk as possible, further benefiting the baby. |
| Allergen considerations: | Some babies turn to formula because of allergy symptoms, and many formulas are available that cater to soy, dairy, and other allergies. |
| Accessibility: | Possibly the most important factor to consider when choosing a formula is accessibility. If you can’t get the formula, it doesn’t matter if it’s top-of-the-line or not. |
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1. Best organic Nutramigen alternative: Else's Toddler Formula
Else toddler formula is a great alternative to Nutramigen as it is Clean Label certified, USDA organic, and plant-based. It contains no dairy, gluten, corn, or soy for babies 12 months and older with allergies.
It’s also nutritionally complete, containing all the macronutrients (carbs, fat, protein) and over 20 vitamins and minerals needed for healthy growth and development. It’s made with minimally processed whole food ingredients, so you don’t have to worry about mystery ingredients.
This formula has also been proven to help babies thrive and gain weight.
» Discover all the benefits of plant-based nutrition for your little ones
2. Best amino acid-based formula: EleCare Hypoallergenic Infant & Toddler Formulas
EleCare is a nutritionally complete, iron-fortified, amino-acid-based formula for babies from 0 to 12 months old with food allergies or sensitive stomachs. It is hypoallergenic and made with 100% free amino acids for easy digestion. It also contains DHA and ARA for optimal development. However, it isn’t organic and does contain corn and soy.
For ages 1 and older with food allergies, there is also amino acid-based EleCare Junior nutrition powder.
» Explore the benefits of a whole-food diet for infants and toddlers
3. Best prebiotic-enhanced formula: Happy Baby®️ Organics Stage 1 Sensitive
Happy Baby®️ Organics Stage 1 Sensitive formula is made specifically for babies from 0 to 12 months with sensitive bellies. It contains a complete nutrient blend, and the lactose content is reduced by 75% to ease gas and stomach upset. It is Clean Label certified and contains all the macronutrients and micronutrients a baby needs. It also contains DHA, ARA, and prebiotics for additional support.
Crafted with organic lactose, prebiotics, and essential vitamins and minerals, the Stage 1 formula mimics the composition of breast milk, allowing you to nourish your baby confidently during its first year.
» Discover how to nourish your child's growth with essential nutrients
4. Best lactose-free alternative to Nutramigen: Sprout Infant Formula & Toddler Drink
Sprout vegan newborn organic formula is a completely plant-based and lactose-free formula for babies 0 to 12 months. Made from rice, peas, organic oils, and a complete vitamin and mineral panel, it provides your sensitive baby with everything he or she needs. It contains DHA and ARA, is soy and gluten-free, and contains no preservatives.
Sprout also offers intolerance-friendly, vegan, and organic toddler drink for kids 12 months and older.
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5. Best formula for colic relief: Enfamil NeuroPro Gentlease Infant Formula
Enfamil Gentlease easy-to-digest partially hydrolyzed non-GMO formula is specifically created to relieve colic, bloating, gas, spit-up, and constipation within 24 hours in babies 0 to 6 months old. It is formulated to be very similar to breast milk and contains all the essential vitamins and minerals a baby needs.
It contains 80% less lactose than standard formulas, promoting digestive comfort and soft stools. Enriched with brain-building DHA and naturally occurring MFGM components, along with a dual prebiotic blend, Enfamil Gentlease enhances gut health and immune support.
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Feeding strategies for infants with sensitive digestion
- Massage: There are many massage techniques you can use after feeding to help babies with sensitive stomachs. These can promote proper digestion and comfort.
- Burping: Burping after feeding is crucial to prevent upset stomachs and fussiness in babies. Be sure to show your pediatrician how you are burping to see if you are using the proper technique.
- Choosing the Right Nipple: Sometimes, the wrong nipple on your bottle can promote excessive air intake and gassiness for your baby. Speak with your pediatrician for the best recommendations.
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3 expert tips for transitioning from Nutramigen to a different formula
- 1. Go slow When transitioning from Nutramigen to another formula, it’s vital to go slowly so as to not stress your baby’s gastrointestinal system. Ask your pediatrician how best to wean.
- 2. Watch for symptoms During the weaning process, look carefully for symptoms of gassiness, stomach upset, or other concerns. These can help you understand what’s happening for your baby during the transition.
- 3. Ask for help Also, speak with your pediatrician prior to making any major changes in your baby’s feeding regimen, especially if your baby has allergies or issues with colic.
Don’t be afraid to really lean on your pediatrician at every turn of the infant feeding process. It can be an overwhelming endeavor that you should seek support for.
» Choose the right nutrition for healthy growth
The right formula for your baby's unique needs
Choosing the right formula for your baby is a crucial decision, especially when managing allergies and sensitivities. While the Nutramigen formula offers specific benefits, any of these alternatives can be a substitute for Nutramigen to meet your child's nutritional needs.
Be sure to always consult your pediatrician when making changes to your infant's diet to ensure a smooth and healthy transition.