Can newborns drink goat milk formula?

Jun 13, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

My due date is next month, and my colleague gave me a box of goat milk formula. May I ask if newborns can drink goat milk formula?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhou Xiaofeng
Newborns can drink goat milk formula. Goat milk formula is easier to digest and absorb compared to cow milk formula, making it especially suitable for infants who are allergic to cow's milk protein. It also has higher nutritional value than cow milk formula, containing abundant minerals such as calcium and phosphorus, which can meet the nutritional needs of newborns. Additionally, the molecular structure of goat milk formula is smaller, making it easier for infants to digest and absorb. However, it should be noted that infants consuming goat milk formula are prone to nutritional anemia, as goat milk lacks sufficient folate, iron, and vitamin C. Although goat milk formula offers these advantages, breastfeeding should still be the first choice for newborns. Breast milk is the ideal food for infants. If mothers are unable to breastfeed due to various reasons, goat milk formula can serve as a good alternative.