Toddler formulas proven to have lack of benefits, University of Kentucky doctor comments
BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – Parents, there are new reports out recently about the nutritional benefits of toddler formulas.
Researchers find that they actually do not provide many health benefits for the vast majority of children.
The manufacturers of these formulas claim that they bolster the child’s immune system and improve brain development.
We spoke with a doctor at the University of Kentucky, who says these formulas, marketed under names like “transition formulas,” “toddler formulas” or “growing up milks,” are often too good to be true, not to be confused with medical or therapeutic formulas for medical conditions, which are often prescribed by doctors.
He also told us none of these toddler formulas have been approved by the FDA.
“By and large, they’re not necessary for the vast majority of children. Some of them are alright to use, but since they’re characterized by such wide variation and composition with many undesirable components in many of them, it’s hard to recommend them,” Dr. George Fuchs, pediatric gastroenterologist with the University of Kentucky Healthcare, says.
Fuchs also says the difference between a toddler and infant formula is the age it’s designed for.
Infant formula is aimed at children between zero and 12 months old. Once a child reaches toddler age, doctors say it’s important that they receive a nutritionally balanced diet that includes fortified foods. They say children who consume solid foods that provide sufficient nutrients shouldn’t need supplemental formulas.
