How Laura Modi Is Rewriting Baby Formula

Mark Hyman

Dec 10, 2025

Episode description

Every parent wants to feed their baby well—but finding clarity in today’s system isn’t always easy. In this episode of The Dr. Hyman Show, I sit down with Laura Modi, CEO and co-founder of Bobbie, to talk about the real challenges families face when it comes to feeding and why it so often feels overwhelming. Laura shares her personal journey, the moments that changed everything, and what she’s learned from supporting thousands of parents through this stage. Enjoy the full conversation on YouTube or listen wherever you get your podcasts.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why shame shows up so quickly around feeding—and how to replace it with clarity and confidence

• How to navigate breastfeeding challenges without feeling like you’re “failing”

• What most parents don’t realize about formula standards, labels, and ingredient quality

• How combo feeding can ease pressure, support mental health, and support your baby’s development

• Why America’s fragile formula system matters for every family and how to stay informed

Feeding your baby should feel empowering, not confusing. I hope this conversation helps you feel more confident as you navigate this stage.

View Show Notes From This Episode

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Mindsip insights from this episode:

Reduce iron levels in US formulas to prevent overload

Contrary to popular belief about fortification, many US formulas contain too much iron, which can lead to iron overload and negative consequences for adolescents.

#iron

#supplement

Utilize combo feeding to extend breastfeeding duration

Introducing formula, known as combo feeding, can help reduce the burden on mothers and may actually help them breastfeed for a longer period.

#breastfeeding

#children

Challenge formula non-choice in WIC program for better options

The WIC program, which 50% of US babies rely on, creates "formula non-choice" by awarding exclusive state contracts to one of two major companies.

#children

#risk

Update US infant formula standards to reflect current science

Unlike European nutritional standards that evolve every few years with the latest science, US infant formula standards have not meaningfully changed in over 30 years.

#nutrition

#research

Choose expeller-pressed oils to avoid negative health impacts of seed oils

The negative health impact of seed oils is often due to industrial processing with solvents like hexane, not the oil itself; expeller-pressed oils are a healthier alternative.

#nutrition

#seed-oil

Verify whey-to-casein protein ratio for optimal digestion

For easier digestion, a formula's whey-to-casein protein ratio should mimic breast milk, but this crucial information is not printed on most labels.

#digestion

#protein

Nourish baby's gut microbiome with breast milk's prebiotic fibers

About 15% of the carbohydrates in breast milk are indigestible prebiotic fibers designed not to feed the baby, but to specifically nourish the baby's gut microbiome.