While this may seem unbelievable and a little weird to most, it’s possible and, as such, should be talked about as to its advantages and disadvantages in the body system of an adult human.
First, baby formulas shouldn’t even be considered on the list of adult dieting as it equalizes human breast milk, which comprises almost (if not all) the nutritional components a baby needs until they are about six months grown.
When this child graduates to the walking and teething stage, they will be gradually introduced to table foods and regular milk to avoid choking. And if, after one year, the child still breastfeeds, it’s simply for comfort or pacification, not nutrition.
With that said, we can’t consider the medical effects of baby milk in an adult without regarding the economic drawback. Taking baby milk can be considered a waste of resources for an adult who genuinely does not need it.
If peradventure you think your body lacks nutrients, there are healthy adult foods that will make up for every lost nutrient and restore you. And if you’re unsatisfied with that, an adult formula would be much better than a baby formula.
What Is Baby Formula?
Baby formula is an artificial nourishing food for infants under one year. Formulas are designed in a way that makes them equivalent to breast milk.
This formula is rich with every nutrient the regular breast milk comprises; it varies in liquid and powdered form. In other words, the baby formula replaces the breast milk, and for babies denied breast milk for whatever reason, this is a win-win for them.
Some of the essential ingredients of this formula are; vegetable oil, whey from cow milk, mineral, lactose, vitamins, and so on. But primarily contains the six food classes and other essential elements to improve its nutrient further.
What Are The Major Kinds of Baby Formula?
The baby formula comes in three major kinds, Cow milk formula, soy formula, and specialized formula. These formulas are presented in three different forms: the powder form you mix with water, the liquid concentrated one that can also be diluted in water, and the already-made formula in a ready-to-eat bottle.
The body responsible for food and drug production in the United States of America ensures the appropriate and safe production of baby formulas sold and produced in the country are rich in all nutrients, including iron.
Cow Milk-Based Formula
80% of the other formulas’ components are found in this formula. The milk in this formula is adequately treated to allow the protein to digest quickly, and lactose (milk and sugar) is infused to replace breast milk. In contrast, butterfat is replaced with vegetable oil for easy digestion.
Soy-Based Formula
Here’s a formula for lactose-intolerant babies, particularly those allergic to cow milk. This formula is made of soy protein and zero lactose. But based on the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) statistics, half a hundred percent of babies allergic to milk protein are liable to react to soy protein.
The Specialized Formula
As the name implies, this formula is made for babies with special conditions and should not be considered without the recommendation of your pediatrician. They are:
- Premature Baby or the Preemie Formula is specially produced for premature babies.
- Extensively Hydrolyzed has proteins that are carefully broken down for easy digestion and allergy to lactose.
- Hypoallergenic Amino Acid-Based has got the smallest amount of allergens, with a small number of amino acids that I not derived from soy or dairy.
Implications Of Changing Baby Formula
Usually, than not; formula intolerance and allergies are one of the many reasons pediatricians usually recommend babies change their formula. And some of these infants’ digestive systems react to these changes, like changes in their stools which in most cases isn’t so severe.
So to be sure your child is allergic to the current baby formula they are taking, here are some of the signs to tip you off if they; Diarrhea, gassiness, frequent vomiting, or constipation. And for the more severe symptoms of allergies or formula intolerance are Bloody stools, Wheezing after feeding, or congestion.
Abrupt changes in a baby’s formula can cause a convulsive shock to their digestive system. So rather than just introducing the milk, gradually include it in their meals to help their system adjust properly before fully introducing it. And do not do so without consulting your pediatrician for further directions and recommendations.
Is It Okay For An Adult To Take Baby Formula?
The baby formula is an edible substance, so if it isn’t harmful to babies, it can be taken by an adult.
But there are a few things to consider before taking any baby formula, especially for those with allergies, so you must be sure of its components before consumption.
And note, do not give your baby the same formula as yours, especially if they have allergies because they might be allergic to your formula.
Pros Of Adult-Taking Baby Formula
Convenience
Its quick and easy-to-prepare features are everything an adult could ever ask for. And with its various forms, the prepacked bottle makes the job easier, especially if you’re too tired to make anything or hurry to get somewhere.
Sweetness
Well, it’s no news that some adults are sweet-toothed, and taking the baby formula will surely appeal to their sense of taste. After all, it’s a much better option than sugary drinks.
Though brands differ in taste, and you might be looking for something that gives your taste buds a part in the back, so trying out a few might get you started, but if the formula turns pink, then it’s an indication that it’s been infected, so do not consume.
More Nutritious
The baby formula is highly recognized for packing a punch of nutrients. From vitamins to protein and minerals, it’s rich in every nutrient your body needs to function correctly.
So with this formula, you can consider taking a much more fun version of vitamin pills.
Builds Muscles Better Than Protein Powder
It’s common knowledge that protein helps build muscles, so if you want to gain a few abs or builds, baby formula can help you achieve that.
Though baby formula doesn’t give as much protein per serving as a protein powder which offers about 50g of protein per serving, as against baby formula, which offers 5mg of protein per serving, still, it’s rich in protein and provides a significant amount of it.
And if they’re to be set side by side, the baby formula provides more nutrients like carbohydrates, vitamins, fats, minerals, and protein, unlike protein powder, which offers just protein.
Human Milk Oligosaccharide
After being proven to have some real health benefits like decreasing inflammation, strengthening the immune system, and improving the baby’s microflora, most brands have considered it clever to include it in their formula.
This oligosaccharide is part of the components of human breast milk; hence, some baby formula brands thought it wise to include it in their recipe. In addition, it contains anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-viral effects, protecting them from numerous infections.
It Prevents Wastage Of The Formula
You can also consider this as putting your resources to good use rather than wasting it. I mean, the baby formula weighs too expensive to be wasted, so if your baby finds the formula unappealing, or perhaps the expiration date is too close for the baby’s consumption, you can prevent wastage by including it in your coffee and consider it a win-win.
Cons Of Adults Taking Baby Formula
Embarrassing
We can both agree that seeing a full-blown adult drink baby formula is weird, and even those who drink it find it a little embarrassing to do so in public. But I mean, you were fully aware of the nutritional benefits hence your decision to take it, so you might as well take pride and joy in doing so without any guilt.
Overrated Health Benefits
Indeed the baby formula is rich in nourishing nutrients and is undoubtedly good for the body. But some people think that its benefits are a little overstated.
Among the vitamins and other nutrients that make the baby formula a renowned nutritious diet, the human oligosaccharide is top on the list. But unfortunately, not every brand of baby formula contains this vital nutrient. In addition, the baby formula doesn’t even have as much protein as your regular protein powder.
So it could be agreed that it doesn’t provide all the nutrients the human body needs, as you’ve been told.
Causes Weight Gain
The baby formula is packed with many calories, a little more than your body requires daily. So if you’re particular about your weight, you might want to reconsider taking that baby milk.
Pretty Expensive
Well, the idea of babies being small is ironic to how expensive their stuff is, from their clothes to their materials, down to their food (including baby formula).
Though the powdered formula is a little more affordable than the prepacked one, that’s pretty expensive, so you might want to weigh your budget before considering a baby formula.
Contains Excess Iron
Iron is one of the highest ingredients for some baby formula brands because it is primarily made for babies to help strengthen their fragile bones and improve their calcium. So an adult digesting this much iron could be subjecting the adult to medical risks.
Formula Feeding vs. Breastfeeding
This has been an existing argument on which is superior in nutrients.
While breastfeeding might seem inappropriate in public, as people tend to feel weird and uncomfortable around a mother breastfeeding her child, others will not criticize you for being so ashamed of carrying out your motherly duties.
But amid all these opinions and arguments on which is correct or best, the only valid opinion is the one that works for you and the baby.
Formula Feeding
The baby formula also guarantees a healthy alternative to breast milk. Though some people go the extra mile by making their baby formula or giving the child cow milk, or as the case may be, that is highly unsafe and not recommended.
In that regard, there are several reasons why mothers prefer to feed their babies baby formula:
With the baby formula, the baby doesn’t have to wait out the hunger; with their mother away, they can get fed at any time by anyone.
While adding a few things to your schedule, pumping breast milk into a bottle doesn’t have to be included. Because you have the baby formula, it just makes things easier for you.
Now you do not have to feel overburdened with the thought of taking care of your baby alone because, with the formula, everyone gets the opportunity to be involved in feeding and taking care of the baby.
Unlike breast milk, the baby formula lasts longer, long enough to schedule your baby’s next meal, so you don’t have to worry about feeding the baby now and then.
With the formula, no restrictions to your dieting as a mother, unlike breastfeeding mothers who avoid particular food because of their breastfeeding child.
Feel free to enjoy your favorite wine, cocktail, or alcohol with the baby formula without being saddled with the thought of your baby taking it through your breast.
Breastfeeding
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, breast milk is recommended to be the best nutrition for the first six months of your baby’s dieting. After six months, you can begin introducing other meals to the baby while breastfeeding.
Till they’re one-year-old or more (if the mother or baby so desires).
But research has it that long-term breastfeeding has health benefits, particularly for the mother. It helps reduces the mother’s chances of high blood pressure, diabetes, and ovarian and breast cancer.
Health benefits of breast milk
- It has the proper nutrients for your baby’s nourishment, from carbohydrates to protein, calcium, and fat.
- It builds your baby’s immune system from ear infections and other infections.
- It reduces the risk of death in the first year of a baby’s existence.
- It increases the intellectual ability of your child.
- It also has future benefits like reducing the chances of your child having leukemia, Hodgkin’s disease, lymphoma, diabetes (type 1 & 2), obsession or overweight, allergies, asthma, and cholesterol.
- Unlike formula, It’s free and available.
- Asides from the health benefits earlier stated for mothers who practice long-term breastfeeding, it also reduces their chances of experiencing postpartum depression.
- And asides the health benefits, it also helps create a better bonding experience. And your baby doesn’t need to be denied breast milk even in your absence; you can pump the milk into a bottle for later consumption.
Baby Formula vs. Protein Powder
Let’s briefly consider what protein powder and baby formula is before comparing. Protein powder is a powdered mix of eggs, plants, or milk. At the same time, baby formula is a powdered or liquid mix of the vital nutrient required for a baby’s growth.
Aside from their textural differences, the baby formula is rich in vitamins, minerals, fat, oil, protein, carbohydrate, and other nutrients, while the protein powder is rich in just protein.
Unlike protein powder, which comes in powdered form, the baby formula comes in powdered and liquid forms. But despite its various forms, the baby formula doesn’t contain as much protein as protein powder.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can A Baby Formula Be Added To Coffee?
Of course, it can be added to your coffee, provided it is powdered and isn’t expired.
Does Adult Have Their Formula?
Adult formulas are specifically made for adults who feed through tubes because they can’t ingest food. It is a thick liquid with sufficient nutrients and easy digestive features.
This formula is not for general consumption and is usually prescribed by a doctor. It is mainly used by people with gastrointestinal issues or Crohn’s disease.
Does Taking Baby Formula Help Me Grow Fat?
The question should be how much of the formula would you take to make you gain weight. The answer is so much. Taking so much baby formula will make you gain weight, if not a little more than you desire.
What Use Can I Put A Leftover Baby Formula To?
Among other use, baby formula can be used to cook as a milk powder, garden, make a paste, and so many other things.
Conclusion
The baby formula doesn’t only help build and repair muscles for an adult who takes it and is packed with lots of nutrients to help you stay healthy.
So if you’re wondering, can adults take baby formula? Yes, adults can very well share the nourishing goodness babies enjoy. Though there are disadvantages and advantages, it’s best to consider which is best for you carefully.