Benefits of Soy Formula for Babies

Experts have no doubts that breast milk is the best source of nutrition for babies and toddlers. Breastfed babies have better digestion, stronger parental bonds and significantly lower rates of dozens of common diseases. However, when breastfeeding is not possible, both soy-based and dairy-based formulas may be used as appropriate substitutes. In these cases, a parent has a choice between these two different options.

There are several benefits of soy formulas for babies, although there is no scientific consensus to demonstrate that soy formula is inherently safer or more nutritious than milk-based formulas. In fact, the American Academy of Pediatrics urges parents to use soy formulas only when the baby is unable to tolerate breast milk or dairy formula. Consult your baby's pediatrician if you have any questions about the risks and benefits of soy formula for babies.

Less Diarrhea

According to the National Institutes of Health, soy formula is an effective treatment for diarrhea in formula-fed babies and toddlers. Between 2-36 months of age, babies fed soy formulas experience fewer days of diarrhea and fewer total bowel movements. The inclusion of soy-based fiber may also help.

Less Colic

Limited evidence suggests that soy-based formulas benefit babies with colic. When compared to conventional cow's milk formulas and hydrolyzed cow's milk formulas, soy-based infant formulas are associated with lower rates of fussiness, gas and general crying among colicky babies. Pediatricians differ in their opinions about the benefits of soy formula for babies with colic.

Better Weight Gain

One small-scale study found that babies are more likely to maintain a healthy weight during weaning from formula if they drink a soy formula instead of cow's milk formula. If your baby is underweight or has a medical condition such as failure to thrive, his pediatrician may recommend that you use soy formula to help him gain weight.

Ethical and Environmental Considerations

Some parents may prefer soy formulas instead of milk formulas due to ethical reasons. Soy has a smaller ecological footprint than dairy products because less land, fewer pesticides and fewer fossil fuels must go into soy than into feeding, raising and transporting dairy cattle. Vegans and animal rights activists may feel that plant-based formulas are more ethically sound than their animal-sourced counterparts.