What Formula Should I Start My Newborn On

How Can I Boost My Breastmilk Supply

My newborn is on formula, and poops after each time he eats. Should I worry?
  • Ask your midwife or a lactation consultant to check your baby is latched on and feeding well. A good latch will help your baby get what they need, and it will make breastfeeding less painful for you too.
  • Feed your baby as often as they want, for as long as they want.
  • Offer both breasts during a feed, to make sure your baby is getting enough.
  • Give your milk supply an extra boost by expressing after feeds.
  • Avoid giving your baby a dummy until breastfeeding is fully established. This usually takes around six weeks.
  • Have lots of skin-to-skin time with your baby. This will help you learn your babys feeding cues, such as rooting. Youll soon start to spot when your little one is hungry and feed them before they become too upset to latch on.

Stage 1 And Stage 2 Formulas

Cows milk-based baby formulas for babies up to 6 months of age are called stage 1 or starter formulas. You can use stage 1 formulas from 0-12 months old.

From 6 months, you can choose stage 2 or follow-on formula, but you dont need to change to stage 2. These formulas arent better for your baby than starter or stage 1 formulas.

How To Tell When Your Baby Is Hungry

It can be hard to know for sure when a baby is hungry or if there is something else causing them to fuss. Sometimes you wont know for sure that theyre hungry until theyre offered a bottle.

Most babies usually cry when they are hungry. Placing the teat of the bottle in their mouth will calm them and they will start sucking.

Try to position your baby in your arms as you would if you were breastfeeding. Hold them close, look into their eyes and be sensitive to their cues or signals.

They suck and swallow in a coordinated way. They may look as if theyre concentrating on feeding, their hands are clenched and their whole body looks like its focused on sucking. As they fill up, their hands relax and their body becomes more relaxed.

Breastfed babies regulate their own milk intake. They suck when theyre hungry and stop sucking when theyre full. In comparison, formula-fed babies arent as much in control of how much milk they drink this is managed by the person offering the bottle.

When your baby has had enough, they will usually pull away from the teat to let you know they are full.

Sometimes you may notice that their sucking slows down and they have longer pauses between sucks.

Other ways your baby might show you they have had enough could be milk starting to pool in their mouth or they may vomit or spill some milk.

Some babies might fuss after having a feed or might go to sleep.

Read Also: What If My Newborn Is Constipated

Topics Covered For Formula Feeding

If your baby is healthy, skip the “What to Do” section. Go directly to the topic number that relates to your question for advice:

  • Types of formulas
  • Switching formulas and milk allergies
  • Powdered versus liquid formulas
  • Whole cow’s milk, 2& percnt , 1% and skim milk
  • Vitamins and iron
  • Water to mix with the formula
  • Amounts: how much per feeding?
  • Schedules or frequency of feedings
  • Length of feedings
  • Night feedings: how to eliminate?
  • Formula temperature
  • Is It Okay To Use Generic Or Store

    Baby Formula Happy Organic Infant Milk Based Powder With Iron Stage 1 ...

    Yes. All formula brands must meet the FDA’s requirements for nutrients in formula, so in many instances, the only difference between generic and brand name is the price.

    Whether you’re buying generic or name brand, take a minute to look at the label before you purchase the formula. Specific ingredients do vary from brand to brand, and this can make a difference to your baby.

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    How Do I Prepare Infant Formula

    The states that a person should follow these steps to prepare infant formula:

    • Wash hands and sanitize the preparation space.
    • Clean and sanitize the baby bottle.
    • If a person wants to warm the bottle, they can do so by running the outside of it under a warm tap.
    • Fill the bottle with the required amount of water as per the packet instructions, ensuring the water is safe to use and clean.
    • Add the required amount of powder to the water and mix.

    Tips For Choosing A Baby Formula

    • Healthy babies, who are born full-term and who are not breastfeeding, should always be fed with a cow’s milk-based formula before trying any other type.
    • The price of a formula is not a sign of its quality. Words like “Superior” or “Gold” are used by marketing people to persuade parents to buy their product.
    • Check the price of the formula against the ratio of formula scoops to water. This will give you a good idea of how long a tin of formula may last.
    • Read the label and make sure you’re choosing the right formula for your baby’s age.
    • Look for a formula with a lower concentration of protein. Excess protein can increase the risk of your baby becoming overweight or obese later in life.
    • Give your baby a few days to become accustomed to a new type of formula. Avoid switching multiple times to different brands and formula types.

    Also Check: How Do You Get A Newborn To Sleep

    Can Babies Be Allergic To Formula

    Some babies are particularly sensitive or allergic to cows milk-based formula. Generally, the protein in cows milk causes them to react. Hydrolysed formula is often recommended as an alternative. Hydrolysed formula contains cows milk protein that has been broken down into smaller particles.

    There are a range of specialised formulas that suit babies with a cows milk allergy or soy formula allergy. These alternatives can be expensive, though. Speak with your GP or babys paediatrician about getting a prescription for a specialty formula since this can significantly reduce its cost.

    If Your Baby Refuses The Bottle

    My newborn gags on the special formula my pediatrician recommended. What should I do?

    Some babies take to the bottle better than others. If yours rejects the bottle at first, try experimenting with different brands of bottles and nipples until you find one your baby likes. Or, have a caregiver or your partner offer the bottle, since your baby may associate you with breastfeeding. Give your baby a bottle at a feeding when theyre not overly tired and hungry since they may be more willing to accept it then.

    Breastfeeding is amazing!!!! But having a second set of boobs is always helpful. Enfamil® mom

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    How Much Formula Should A Baby Eat

    As a general rule, babies need 2.5 ounces of formula for every pound of body weight. For the total number of ounces per day, multiply your baby’s weight by 2.5 So if your infant weighs 10 pounds, she should be drinking 20 to 25 ounces per day.

    Check the formula-feeding chart below for a month-by-month guide:

    But you can start your newborn out slowly. A few days after birth, your baby will probably take about 1 to 3 ounces at each feeding. In fact, full-term infants at a healthy weight can be fed on demand, which means you can watch for cues so you can determine her hunger level. Here are some of the common ones you might spy:

    • Sucking furiously on her hands, your shirt or your arm
    • Nuzzling against your chest
    • Opening her mouth
    • Sucking on her lip or tongue, which can look like she’s sticking her tongue out
    • Making lip-smacking sounds
    • Crying in a short, low-pitched wail that rises and falls

    Gradually increase the ounces, adding more as the demand becomes greater, but never push your baby to take more or finish a bottle. As long as she’s growing and putting on weight, seems content most of the time and isnt spitting up large quantities, shes likely getting the correct amount.

    Need more guidance? You can always check in with your pediatrician about how much formula to give.

    What Is The Best Baby Formula For A Newborn

    If your baby doesnt have allergies, was born full-term and is generally healthy, the best baby formula just might be the one that you can find easily at a store near you and that your baby seems to enjoy. Your pediatrician can certainly make a formula recommendation and if you gave birth at a hospital, you might start off with the brand you were given there.

    As for the various types of formula for sale, whether powdered, concentrated or ready-to-feed, know that all three are equally balanced in terms of nutrition and all are FDA approved if sold in the U.S.

    Powdered formula is generally cheaper than the other two, though both powder and concentrated versions require extra steps to prepare.

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    How To Choose Formula

    The variety of protein options layered on top of the variety of carbohydrate options results in the large number of formulas that overwhelm you at Target. But now you know how to choose your formula based on the protein and carbohydrate ingredients.

    Prioritize your protein choice first since protein is the most likely factor affecting digestibility and comfort. From options with the protein source you are looking for, pick the formula with the carbohydrate blend closest to what you want. Then give it a shot.

    You made your decision based on science. If you need to change formulas in the future, you know how to select your next formula the same way. Thats the best you can do.

    Lets Begin With The Basics

    Best Formula for Preemies and Answers to Your Questions

    Protein, carbohydrates, and fat make up 98% of infant formula. Protein and carbohydrates have the most impact on your babys comfort while digesting, so I always recommend parents choose a formula based on these ingredients.

    You can literally ignore the front of the formula label. What a relief! These labels are full of competing messages. Words like sensitive and gentle are not regulated and dont mean anything.

    Instead, flip over the can and look at the list of ingredients. Focus on the first few ingredients before the less than 2% long list of vitamins and minerals. Those first few ingredients will tell you what type of protein and carbohydrates are used in that formula.

    Yes, there are both dairy-based and soy-based formulas. But the more important digestion question is: How BIG are the proteins your baby is drinking?

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    What Should I Do To Support My Formula Fed Babys Feeding Schedule

    Newborn feeding pattern

    If youâre in the thick of the first 8 weeks, take a deep breath! You and your baby are both still learning and things will get easier over time. Focus on babyâs feeding cues to let you know what to do.

    Feed your newborn formula 6 to 10 times in a 24-hour period rather than focusing on a specific feeding schedule. Follow your babyâs hunger and fullness cues.

    Older baby feeding pattern

    As baby gets older, their feeding cues may change.7 A consistent baby feeding schedule may not emerge until your baby is around 4 to 6 months old. Remember that your baby needs to eat frequently, especially throughout the first 3 months. Watch for your babyâs natural schedule, but try not force it or stick to a rigid baby feeding schedule.

    Allow your babyâs cues to guide you in determining how much formula to offer and how frequently. Itâs ok if your baby does not finish a bottle, and itâs also ok if your baby needs you to prepare an additional bottle.

    Read more: Should I Breastfeed On Demand or on a Schedule?

    Find your support group

    Build a strong support network. Feeding a baby is a demanding job! Having friends and family members who can support you, whether with holding the baby while you nap or tossing in a load of laundry so you donât have to, will allow you to focus on yourself and your baby.

    And donât hesitate to reach out to the Happy Baby Experts for guidance and support. Chat now!

    Lets Chat!

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    What Is Baby Formula

    Baby formula is designed to feed babies, as a substitute for or supplement to breast milk. There are a lot of formula options, so talk to your baby’s doctor about the brand and type of formula you’re considering for your baby.

    However, you can rest assured that all baby formulas have the same five main components: carbohydrates, protein, fat, vitamins, and minerals. And all formulas marketed in the United States must meet the FDA’s requirements for nutrients. So while specific ingredients and formulations may vary from brand to brand, all baby formulas have the basics your baby needs.

    Some parents wonder about the best formula for newborns versus the best formula for infants or older babies. The truth is that all baby formulas have essentially the same ingredients. No matter how they’re labeled, newborn and infant formulas are minimally different and interchangeable. So don’t worry about buying a different formula for a different stage of your baby’s first year.

    Read Also: What To Give Newborn For Diarrhea

    When Dealing With Bottle Refusal Be Patient

    Rarely, a breastfed baby will prove shockingly tenacious in refusing to take milk from a bottle. If after trying all of the above techniques your baby is still rejecting the bottle, or if your baby begins refusing the bottle after taking it previously, you can also try:

    Distracting the baby. Try giving the bottle when your baby is calm and a little distracted, for example, by offering a bottle while taking a walk outside.

    Heating things up. Try warming the milk and the bottle nipple, to make the experience more similar to feeding at your breast.

    Offering a taste. Using a syringe, try dribbling a little milk into your babys mouth and then giving her the bottle. This helps trigger her drive to suck on the bottle.

    Using music as a feeding cue. Rosenfeld recommended playing the same music while nursing and bottle feeding. This cues your baby that its time to eat.

    If your baby is 6 months or older, try circumventing the bottle and weaning directly onto a cup.

    Signs You Might Need To Switch Baby Formulas

    When should I start feeding my baby rice cereal and baby food?

    Parents should start their babies on a standard milk-based formula unless they have a medical condition, such as an allergy to cows milk, that warrants the use of a specialized variety, says Jessica Gust, a pediatric dietitian and founder of Element Nutrition Co. for Kids in Arroyo Grande, California.

    If their baby isnt tolerating a standard formula, the best formula to change to depends on the symptoms, she says. There are several potential signs a baby isnt tolerating their current formula well.

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    A Note About The Baby Formula Shortages

    Due to supply chain issues secondary to the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as recent safety recalls from major formula companies, many baby formulas are currently out of stock.

    If youre having difficulty finding the baby formula you need, call your pediatricians office. They may have sample cans available or be able to advise you on the closest match to your babys formula.

    Other resources may include your local WIC office , social media infant feeding groups, or large online grocery retailers.

    What Type Of Formula Should I Use

    Many different formulas are available these days. Ask your doctor which kind is best for your baby.

    Do not try to make your own formula at home. Online recipes may look healthy and promise to be nutritionally complete, but they can have too little or too much of important nutrients and cause serious health problems for your baby.

    There are many different brands of formula, and all that are made in the United States must meet strict nutrition and safety standards.

    Formula types include:

    • cow’s milk-based formulas. Most formulas are made from cow’s milk. These formulas have added iron, which babies need. Use only iron-fortified formula, unless your doctor advises you not to.
    • soy-based formulas. These are for babies born with congenital lactase deficiency or galactosemia. This type of formula is also used by parents who do not want their babies to eat animal protein. Give only iron-fortified soy formula, unless your doctor says otherwise.
    • hypoallergenic formulas for babies who can’t tolerate cows milk or soy formulas, like those with allergies to milk or soy proteins. The proteins in hypoallergenic formulas are broken down so they are easier to digest.
    • specialized formulas. These are designed for premature babies.

    Read Also: How To Properly Bottle Feed A Newborn

    What Kind Of Bottle Should I Use

    Bottles come in different shapes and sizes. They can be made of glass, plastic, silicone, or stainless steel. Here are some differences:

    Plastic bottles are now “BPA-free” meaning they don’t contain the chemical bisphenol A . This chemical may be harmful and is found in some plastics, but is banned from baby bottles. Years ago, some plastic baby bottles had BPA in them, but none do now.

    Glass bottles. Glass bottles can cause injury if broken, but silicone sleeves make them easier to grip and help prevent breaks.

    Silicone bottles and stainless steel bottles are newer options. They are unbreakable but tend to be more expensive than plastic or glass.

    Some babies do better with certain bottle shapes, vented bottles, or bottles with liners on the inside. You may need to try a few kinds before you find what works best for you and your baby.

    To get you through the first week or so, be sure to have enough formula, water, bottles, and nipples.

    Over time, you may want to buy more or different kinds of bottles. You also may find it’s worth getting other supplies, like a bottle drying rack or special dishwasher basket.

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