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Some mothers may voluntarily decide to use alternatives to dairy such as soy milk formula, rice milk formula or goats milk formula, while for some it’s a necessity because of intolerance. The Holle brand which is available in our stores has a range of suitable products you may like to investigate. The range offers a number of different formulations which are fortified with nutrients to support the development and health of an infant. It is important to note however that some of this range does however contain cows milk as an ingredient.

Soy is a widely used legume throughout the world, it contains many beneficial nutrients such as proteins, amino acids, phytoestrogens and Isoflavones (such as Genistein, Daidzein). Soy ingredients have been consumed in Asian diets for over 5000 years. This bean is readily available in health food stores and supermarkets in the form of soy beans, soy milk, tofu, soy based protein powders, soy cheese, soy flour, soy yoghurt and tempeh.

There are many differing beliefs regarding the intake of Soy. A diet high in phytates may lead to mineral deficiencies as these compounds can bind to minerals and decrease their absorption. It is advised for this reason to use different formulations which contain proteins from a variety of sources.

"Naturopathic ethos" encourages moderation, and in relation to Soy products in most circumstances this is the best policy. A healthy diet should contain a well varied amount of grains, legumes, animal protein sources, nuts and seeds and fruits and vegetables. Most Naturopaths will recommend that rather than drinking only one type of milk, to vary it and include other milk types such as dairy milk, oat milk, almond milk, rice milk, soy milk and goats milk. Soy milk produced from genetically modified beans is also not recommended. Variety and nutrition is the key to better health. The Western diet tends to contain many of the same foods, for example dairy, wheat and sugar and it is interesting to note that these are some of the most common foods implicated in food allergies.

A diet with sufficient levels of Essential fatty acids (EFA) such as Omega 3 is important for vitality and health. The Western diet tends towards higher levels of Omega 6 EFA’s and lower levels of Omega 3 EFA’s which is a reason behind why we tend to see more inflammatory conditions in Western society. Quality oils ensure skin health, provide anti-inflammatory support, improve immunity, cognitive health and growth.

In regard to your question concerning how to increase your baby’s Omega 3 essential fatty acid levels to benefit brain function and development, you may consider adding flaxseed oil to her formula. A small amount of pumpkin oil, wheat germ oil or olive oil may also suffice. It is important to choose a formula which does contain oils so as to mimic the oils found in breastmilk.