When we picture a healthy baby, the image that often comes to mind is that of a rosy-cheeked, chubby-armed cherub, all smiles and gurgles. But, for some families, this isn't always the reality, as not all infants can gain weight as expected.

When traditional feeding methods aren't enough, specialized formulas can offer a valuable solution. Let's explore the factors that can influence infant weight gain and how specialized formulas can make a positive impact.

» Is your baby struggling to gain weight? Invest in specialized weight-gain formula

Our Pick: Best Baby Formulas for Weight Gain

1. Best overall baby formula for weight gain: Else Nutrition Plant-Based Complete Nutrition Formula
2. Best organic baby formula for weight gain: Bellamy's Organic Step 1 Infant Formula
3. Best whole food baby formula for weight gain: ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula
4. Best sensitive baby formula for weight gain: Earth's Best Organic Sensitive Baby Formula
5. Best iron-rich baby formula for weight gain: Bobbi Organic Infant Formula

The Importance of Healthy Weight Gain

Healthy weight gain in infancy isn't just about hitting a certain number on the scale—it's about laying the groundwork for your child's future. Think of it like building a house—a strong foundation is necessary for a sturdy structure.

In the same way, proper nutrition in the early years helps build a strong body, a sharp mind, and a resilient immune system. It's like giving your child a head start on life. Here's how it helps:

• Brainpower: Adequate nutrition fuels a child's growing brain, helping them learn, remember, and think clearly.
• Growing Stronger: Good food helps kids grow taller and stronger and reach milestones like rolling over and crawling.
• Fighting Off Infections: A well-nourished body is better at fighting infections and staying healthy.
• Setting the Stage: What you feed your baby now can influence their health later in life, reducing the risk of problems like obesity and diabetes.
• Balancing Act: Proper nutrition keeps hormones in check, helping kids grow and develop normally.
• Gut Feeling: Healthy food helps a child's digestive system work well, preventing tummy troubles.

» Understand the micronutrient needs of kids

When to Use Weight-Gaining Formula

If your little one isn't gaining weight as they should or has a medical condition, a weight gain formula might be a good option.

Here are some situations where it might be helpful:

• Premature Birth: Preterm babies often have higher nutritional needs to catch up. Their digestive systems may also be less mature, so they need easily digestible, nutrient-dense formulas.
• Illness: Medical conditions, such as congenital heart defects, respiratory issues, or neurological conditions, can increase a baby's caloric needs or impair their ability to feed effectively.
• Digestive Issues: Some babies might have trouble absorbing nutrients from breast milk due to conditions like short bowel syndrome, cystic fibrosis, or severe reflux.
• Not Gaining Enough: If your breastfed baby isn't gaining weight as it should, formula can give it an extra boost.
• Failure to thrive: This medical condition, characterized by insufficient weight gain and growth, may require intervention with specialized nutrition.

» Learn the signs that formula isn't right for your baby

5 Best Baby Formulas for Weight Gain

Best overall baby formula for weight gain

1

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Outstanding

10

Else Nutrition Plant-Based Complete Nutrition Formula

Essential nutrients packed in every mouthful

Buy Now

Price

$34.99

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Volume

22 oz / 625 g

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Age

12+ months

Why it's a top pick

Else Nutrition Plant-Based Complete Nutrition Formula has a balanced blend of almond butter, buckwheat flour, and tapioca, providing a healthy mix of calories, fats, and proteins for weight gain.

With 180 calories, 9 grams of fat, and 5 grams of protein per serving, it offers a nutrient-dense option that supports steady growth.

Else's gentle composition makes it great for sensitive tummies, encouraging consistent feeding and weight gain without digestive issues.

Pros and cons

High calorie and nutrient density for effective weight gain

Proven to improve weight gain in 4 out of 5 kids

Over 90% organic, whole food ingredients

Not suitable for children under 12 months

Best organic baby formula for weight gain

2

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Excellent

9.7

Bellamy's Organic Step 1 Infant Formula

Price

$36

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Volume

32 oz / 900 g

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Age

0–6 months

Why it's a top pick

Designed to support steady growth, Bellamy's Organic Step 1 Infant Formula offers a gentle approach to weight gain. Its nutritionally complete profile, derived from certified organic cow's milk, provides a balanced blend of essential nutrients.

While lower in calories per serving than some other formulas, it allows for flexible feeding volumes to meet your baby's individual needs.

Pros and cons

Dual certified organic

Contains A2 protein

Free from synthetic pesticides and antibiotics

Lower calorie content per serving compared to some formulas

Limited availability

Best whole food baby formula for weight gain

3

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Great

9.6

ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula

Price

$42

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Volume

24 oz / 680 g

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Age

0–12 months

Why it's a top pick

ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula features a unique protein blend that mimics breast milk for easy digestion and efficient nutrient absorption.

With 100 calories per serving and a well-balanced macronutrient profile, its a versatile option that can be easily adjusted to meet your baby's individual needs.

Pros and cons

Balanced macronutrient profile

Patented protein blend

Whole milk fats

More costly than other options

Not suitable for those with a dairy allergy

Best sensitive baby formula for weight gain

4

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Very good

9.3

Earth's Best Organic Sensitive Baby Formula

Price

$39.99

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Volume

21 oz / 595 g

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Age

0+ months

Why it's a top pick

Designed to support weight gain in sensitive babies, Earth's Best Organic Sensitive Baby Formula features a reduced lactose content to help alleviate fussiness and gas.

Enriched with DHA, ARA, and lutein, this formula supports brain, eye, and physical development as well as healthy weight gain.

Pros and cons

Reduced lactose content

Organic ingredients from grass and grain-fed cows

Contains DHA, ARA, and lutein

Not suitable for severely lactose-intolerant babies

More costly than other options

Best iron-rich baby formula for weight gain

5

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Noteworthy

9

Bobbi Organic Infant Formula

Price

$23

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Volume

24 oz / 680 g

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Age

0–12 months

Why it's a top pick

Bobbi Organic Infant Formula offers a balanced nutritional profile with 100 calories per serving, 2 grams of protein, and 6 grams of fat. Its iron-rich composition supports cell and brain development.

Its premium organic oil blend mimics breast milk's fatty acid profile, ensuring that weight gain is accompanied by essential nutrients for overall growth and development.

Pros and cons

Organic and clean label certified

No chemical solvents or inorganic bleaching agents

Contains essential fatty acids

Limited availability

May not be suitable for babies with dairy allergies



Characteristics of Effective Weight-Gain Formulas

These specialized formulas are designed to provide additional nutrition to infants who need to gain weight more rapidly than typical and have several key characteristics:

• Increased Calorie Content: Weight gain formulas typically provide 22–24 calories per ounce or more than standard formulas' 20 calories per ounce. This allows infants to consume more calories without increasing formula volume.
• Higher Fat Content: Fat, the most calorie-dense nutrient, is often increased in these formulas. Various oils are used, including MCTs, for easy absorption. Some formulas include algae-derived DHA to support brain and eye development.
• Protein Sources and Digestibility: Formulas use diverse protein sources to fuel babies' growth. Some incorporate hydrolyzed proteins for easier digestion. Manufacturers often adjust amino acid profiles to closely match breast milk composition.
• Carbohydrate Sources: Formulas use different carbohydrates as energy sources. Some include fiber, such as fructooligosaccharides, to support digestive health.
• Added Vitamins and Minerals: Weight gain formulas contain higher levels of certain micronutrients to support rapid growth. Essential nutrients include calcium, phosphorus, iron, zinc, and vitamin D, with attention paid to potentially lacking nutrients.
• Prebiotics and Probiotics: Many weight gain formulas include these to support digestive health. Prebiotics, like galactooligosaccharides, feed beneficial gut bacteria, while probiotics introduce live beneficial bacteria strains.

» Explore tips and tricks for childhood nutrition

Extra Benefits of Weight Gain Formula

While weight gain is the main goal, specialized formulas offer a range of additional benefits that support your baby's overall health and development.

1. Customized Nutrition: Weight gain formulas are often tailored to meet specific nutritional needs, which can be particularly beneficial for infants with certain medical conditions or dietary restrictions.
2. Improved Sleep Patterns: With adequate nutrition, babies may sleep better for longer periods, which is crucial for growth and development.
3. Enhanced Muscle Development: These formulas' higher protein content can support better muscle growth and strength.
4. Boosted Energy Levels: The increased calorie content can improve energy levels, potentially making babies more alert and engaged during awake periods.
5. Support for Catch-up Growth: These formulas can help babies who have fallen behind on their growth curve catch up to their peers more quickly.
6. Reduced Feeding Frequency: The higher calorie content means babies may feel satisfied for longer, potentially reducing the number of feedings required throughout the day.
7. Improved Bone Density: The extra calcium and vitamin D in these formulas can contribute to stronger bone development.

» Tired of commercial formulas? Explore healthy and organic alternatives

Important Considerations

Beyond choosing the right formula, these practical tips can help ensure a smooth and successful transition to a weight gain formula:

• Gradual Introduction and Monitoring: Introduce the new formula gradually to allow your baby's digestive system to adjust. Watch for signs of allergic reactions like rashes, excessive gas, or changes in stool.
• Track Progress: Record your baby's weight regularly to ensure the formula is effective. Remember that weight gain takes time, so give the new formula at least a few weeks before assessing its effectiveness.
• Proper Preparation and Hygiene: Always follow mixing instructions exactly—don't over concentrate the formula. Maintain good hygiene in preparation and storage to prevent contamination.
• Holistic Approach: While nutrition is crucial, ensure your baby gets enough sleep and age-appropriate physical activity. If your doctor recommends it, consider supplementing with breast milk or other nutritional supplements.
• Regular Medical Supervision: Visit your pediatrician regularly for check-ups to monitor progress and adjust the feeding plan as necessary.
• Plan for Future Needs: Be prepared to transition to different formulas or feeding methods as your baby grows and their nutritional needs change, always following your pediatrician's recommendations.

» Check out how to switch from ready-made to powder formula

Tailored Nutrition for Thriving Infants

Insufficient weight gain in infants is a critical health issue that extends beyond aesthetic concerns. It can lead to significant short-term and long-term consequences for their overall well-being. While traditional feeding may not be enough for all infants, specialized formulas offer tailored nutritional support.

Our carefully selected list of weight gain formulas offers more than just additional calories; they are meticulously formulated to address the specific nutritional needs of infants who struggle to thrive on traditional feeding methods.

» Don't let your baby's weight gain be a concern. Try Else Nutrition Plant-Based Complete Nutrition Formula