6 Reasons to Consider Goat's Milk Formula for your Baby

In parenthood, there are many decisions to be made daily. The most important of which being what to feed your baby. There is so much advice out there, and a sea of products to choose from - you’d be forgiven for not knowing where to start!

Whether you decide to mix feed your baby, are unable to breastfeed, or are looking for a suitable formula to graduate your baby onto, we’re here to tell you about the benefits of goat’s milk formula.

Goat’s milk formula is higher in essential vitamins and minerals

Goat’s milk naturally contains higher levels of certain essential vitamins and minerals compared to cow’s milk. This includes calcium, magnesium and Vitamin A.

Goat’s milk formula is also easier to digest than cow’s milk, as goat milk naturally predominantly contains A2 beta-casein protein, which has been clinically shown to have fewer digestive issues compared to A1 proteins that are found conventionally in cow’s milk. A1 beta casein milk protein can cause inflammation and discomfort in the gut in some individuals and babies

Which goat’s milk formula is best?

Most goat milk formulas are considered nutrient dense, and contain a wide variety of vitamins and minerals that are considered essential to a baby’s health and development. Oli6 Goat Milk Formula contains essential vitamins and minerals, as well as a probiotic - BB536 - to support immunity and is scientifically proven to inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria. BB536 can provide a consistent beneficial effect in improvement of gastrointestinal conditions, maintenance of intestinal microflora balance, regulation of immune response, anti-allergy, and protection against microbial infections.

Oli6 also contains other supportive ingredients such as DHA which many parents look for. Docosahexaenoic acid, or DHA, is a type of omega-3 fat that may improve many aspects of your health, from your brain and eyes to your heart. – Feel free to word differently or add more relevant info from here:

Another factor to consider when choosing which formula, is availability. There is nothing more stressful than searching for your baby’s formula when you are down to your last few scoops. For this reason, Oli6 is a great choice, available at all major supermarkets and pharmacies. Oli6 is Australian made and owned. This means any chance of stock issues is very low. Developed by experienced formula technicians, the team at Oli6 are constantly ensuring that all Australian strict regulatory and nutritional requirements are met. In addition, Oli6 are an associate member of The Infant Nutrition Council, which supports both breastfeeding and infant formula.

Goat’s milk is kinder on a baby’s delicate digestive system and promotes gut health

Goat milk forms a softer curd in the stomach compared to cow's milk. Smaller, softer, and smoother curds are usually easier to digest.

Goats milk is higher in naturally occurring prebiotics called oligosaccharides. These prebiotics act as a food source for the bacteria found in our digestive system, which may help promote a healthier gut. Researchers found 14 naturally-occurring prebiotic oligosaccharides in the goat milk formula. Five of these are also found in human breast milk. There are up to six times the amount of these natural prebiotics in goats milk when compared to cow’s milk.

Goat Milk Formula is backed by science - and pediatricians!

A laboratory study by RMIT, published in the British Journal of Nutrition, analysed two types of commercial goat milk formula. Lead investigator, Professor Harsharn Gill, said the study was believed to be the first to reveal the diversity of oligosaccharides in goat’s milk-based infant formula and their similarity to human milk.

“Our results show goat milk formula may have strong prebiotic and anti-infection properties that could protect infants against gastrointestinal infections,” Gill said.

“The study indicates the prebiotic oligosaccharides in goat milk formula are effective at selectively promoting the growth of healthy bacteria in the gut. 

According to an article published on Forbes.com, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has now officially expanded their infant formula recommendations to include goat milk-based products. This comes as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has now approved several brands of formula using goat milk as their base. 

Goat Milk Formula may be a great option for babies and children with a cow protein allergy

For children clinically diagnosed with cow’s milk protein allergy (CMPA) it is always recommended to seek advice from your health practitioner or baby nurse before trialling goats milk formula. Oli6 Goat Milk formula does not contain any cow’s milk protein, however some children who are allergic to cow’s milk may also react to goat’s milk (or any source of dairy).

Many families dealing with sensitivities to cow’s milk or minor intolerances have had great success with goat’s milk as an alternative due to it’s natural properties which may reduce common symptoms toddlers experience; such as cramping and constipation.

Can I request a free sample?

Trialling different formulas can be a very stressful and costly experience for families. Some goat milk formula brands including Oli6 offer smaller trial sized packs families can try with their children to see how their little tummies respond. They even offer a free trial for toddlers. When trialling different formulas, it is often recommended to introduce any new formula slowly to allow for your baby’s tummy to adjust to any new changes and may take 1-2 weeks to fully see the effects.

Request your free trial, here. (For toddlers only)

Disclaimer:

We wholly support your choices and your feeding journey, whatever that may be. For people who can, breastfeeding is best for babies. It provides the optimal balance of nutrition and protection for their development. Breastfeeding at regular intervals, along with a healthy and balanced diet will benefit your milk production. However, this is not always possible. This is when the use of baby formula becomes necessary.