A2 Baby Formula: A Gentle Option for Sensitive Tummies

Some babies struggle with tummy troubles including gas, fussiness, and discomfort. A2 baby formulas are a newer choice designed for babies needing a gentler formula.

Breast milk is the ideal source of nutrition for babies, as it is perfectly tailored to meet their needs. 

But when breast milk isn’t an option, infant formula provides a good alternative. 

Formula companies are constantly trying to make formulas more like breast milk, and one of the latest developments is A2 milk formula. 

Why? Regular milk may cause more digestive discomfort than A2 milk for some babies.

Let’s explore how A2 baby formula is more like breast milk and why it could be a good option for your baby.

What is A2 Milk?

A1 vs. A2 Beta-Casein Proteins

Milk, whether human, cow, or goat, contains several types of proteins. Casein and whey are the two main proteins. 

Casein makes up around 80% of the protein in cow’s milk.  One type of casein protein is beta-casein, which comes in two forms: A1 and A2. 

Most cows today produce A1 protein milk, but human breast milk only contains the A2 form of beta-casein protein. 

Some research suggests that A2 milk is easier to digest than A1 milk (1). The different structures of A1 and A2 beta casein change how it is digested, with A1 milk causing more digestion symptoms than A2 milk. 

Differences in Digestion

When A1 milk is digested, it produces a byproduct called BCM-7 (beta-casomorphin-7), which can cause gas and bloating.

A2 milk produces much less BCM-7 during digestion (2). For sensitive tummies, switching to A2 milk may help ease digestive discomfort caused by drinking A1 milk.  

Sources of A2 Milk

Human milk contains only A2 beta-casein protein, while most modern cows produce milk with a mix of A1 and A2 proteins.

In the past cows had A2 milk.  Now only certain breeds, like Guernsey and Jersey cows, naturally produce more A2 milk. Farmers can also test cows to identify those that produce A2-only milk. 

The A2 protein is also found in other animals’ milk including sheep, goats, and camels.

Goat’s milk contains A2 protein. Goat’s milk formula has become more popular in recent years because some babies tolerate it better than standard cow’s milk formula which may be in part due to its A2 protein. 

How A2 Baby Formula is Different

Composition of A2 Formula

A2 formula stands out on the shelf because it is made from milk that contains only the A2 protein, making it easier to digest for some babies.

All infant formulas (including A2 formula) sold in the U.S. must provide the essential vitamins, minerals, and nutrients babies need to grow.  

Like breast milk, A2 formulas provide A2 protein.

When A2 milk is digested, less BCM-7 byproduct is made than with A1 milk, which can help prevent digestive issues like gas, bloating, and changes in stool. 

Babies who experience discomfort from A1 milk may find relief when switching to an A2-only formula.

Benefits of A2 Baby Formula

Easier Digestion

Newborns have developing digestive systems, which can make them more sensitive to certain proteins. 

A2 infant formula may help reduce symptoms of colic, gas, and bloating because it doesn’t create the same digestive byproducts as A1 milk.

Possible Reduction in Lactose Sensitivity Symptoms

A true lactose intolerance is rare in full-term babies, but many babies experience symptoms of a lactose sensitivity like gas, bloating, and digestion discomfort. 

In some cases, this could be linked to how A1 milk is digested rather than lactose itself. 

A2 formula, while still containing lactose, may help reduce symptoms like bloating and gas in some babies.

It’s important to note that A2 baby formula contains lactose.  Babies with that are unable to digest lactose, like those with galactosemia, should not drink A2 formula.

A2 Formula and Cow’s Milk Protein Allergy (CMPA)

A2 formula is not suitable for babies with a cow’s milk protein allergy (CMPA). Goat formula is also not recommended for baby’s with a cow milk protein allergy because it still contains the whole cow’s milk protein that causes the allergic reaction.

Babies with CMPA need a special formula that is hypoallergenic or hydrolyzed, which breaks down the proteins to prevent allergic reactions. 

Always talk to your doctor before switching formulas if cow’s milk allergy is a concern.

Who Might Benefit from A2 Infant Formula?

Infants with Sensitive Digestive Systems

If your baby is experiencing gassiness, irritability, or discomfort after feeding, they might have a sensitivity to A1 milk. 

In this case, switching to an A2 formula could help. 

If you suspect your baby has a milk sensitivity or allergy, discuss A2 formula as an option with your baby’s pediatrician. 

Choosing the Right A2 Formula

Several A2 infant formulas are available for purchase. Below is a list of several A2 baby formulas to choose from.

Not sure which one to try? Use our A2 baby comparison guide below for a side by side comparison of many A2 infant formulas. Learn which A2 formulas have prebiotics, probiotics, DHA, ARA, and more!

A2 baby formulas compared. Details which ones contain prebiotics, probiotics, DHA, ARA, and are organic. Includes A2 cow and goat milk formulas.
A2 baby formulas comparison chart.

A2 Formula vs. Breastfeeding

Breast Milk as the Gold Standard

Human breast milk is the ideal source of nutrition for babies. While A2 milk is gentler on digestion than regular cow’s milk, it still doesn’t match all the benefits of breast milk. 

Breast milk uniquely provides germ-fighting properties that lower a baby’s risk for ear infections and respiratory illnesses. Research suggests that breastfeeding may also protect against conditions like allergies, asthma, diabetes, obesity, and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

However, breastfeeding isn’t always easy and can be challenging for some parents. If you’re finding it stressful or struggling with breastfeeding, seek help early on from a lactation consultant or breastfeeding specialist.

If your baby seems to have discomfort with breast milk, talk to your healthcare provider before switching to formula. Often, breastfeeding can continue with some adjustments, helping both you and your baby get the benefits of breast milk while addressing any discomfort.

Supplementing with A2 Formula

If you need to supplement, an A2 formula is a good option to consider for a gentler formula. However, A2 milk protein is one of many things to consider when choosing a formula. If you want to learn more about how different formulas impact your baby’s health, check out our understanding formula options and the goat’s milk guide articles. 

The benefit of A2 formula is that it may be gentler on your baby’s stomach than other standard baby formulas. Goat’s milk or gentle formulas could also be good options to consider.

Cost and Considerations

Cost Implications

A2 milk is more expensive to produce than A1 milk, which means A2 formulas carry a higher price tag. 

Also, with being a newer formula on the market there isn’t a cheaper generic or store brand option to turn to. 

Limited Research on Long-Term Benefits

While early research shows that A2 milk may have digestive benefits, more studies are needed to understand its long-term impact and if other health benefits exist.  

Research is ongoing to see if A2 milk provides additional benefits beyond digestion, such as for allergies and sudden infant death syndrome, but evidence is still limited and does not show a clear benefit.

Conclusion

A2 infant formula may be a helpful option for babies who experience digestive issues with regular formula. 

While breastfeeding is always the ideal option when possible, A2 formula provides a closer alternative to breast milk by avoiding the digestive problems associated with A1 milk. 

As with any feeding decision, always consult your child’s doctor to find the best solution for your baby’s needs. 

Every baby is different, and what works for one might not work for another, so it’s important to explore your options carefully.

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