Breastmilk is the best food for your baby, but it is not always possible for mothers to breastfeed their children exclusively. That’s why many families choose to use formula.Organic baby formula can be a great choice because it is easy and convenient, and has been developed over the last 100 years by health experts.
Unfortunately, some parents underestimate how important breastmilk is to a baby’s development. They may also mistakenly believe that all formulas are created equal, when in fact babies have different nutritional needs at each stage of growth. For these reasons many people do not know what they need from this transition or how to establish a good feeding routine using formula once it has been introduced into their child’s diet. Here are 5 things to think about before you transition from breastmilk to organic formula:
- Toxins: Are there any toxins in the formula you are using? Look for the word “formula” on the product label. Toxins may be present in unexpected forms – additives, preservatives, and artificial colors can alter your child’s metabolism and cause digestive problems. Ask your doctor if you have questions about your baby’s formula or if he/she is worried that it is unhealthy for your baby.
- Nutrition: Your baby’s needs are very different depending on where they are in their development (see chart below). Be sure to get advice from a good pediatrician or lactation consultant that understands your child’s stage of development.
- Formula has been developed to support the needs of babies at different stages of development: Find out which stage yours is and what formula is best for your baby by calling your doctor or local lactation consultant.
- Formula is not the same as human breastmilk: Many families try to put formulas to the breast and are disappointed because they cannot create a coordinated feeding routine with their baby. Babies with immature nervous systems may have difficulty coordinating their suckling and swallowing. This can result in either excessive or insufficient intake of formula (either too much or not enough).
- It is important that you work with your doctor to develop a feeding plan that supports the needs of your baby while breastfeeding is your only option: You should track how much formula you feed and how many ounces of breastmilk you give your baby when she is nursing so that you can estimate how much formula you need for a particular feeding.
Conclusion
Do not assume you can safely make the transition from breastmilk to formula, and that there is only one way to do it. Make sure you talk with your pediatrician about how to transition your baby from breastmilk to formula.
How much formula should I give my baby? What should I expect from the experience? How to transition from breastmilk to formula? Find out how much formula your baby needs – this information will help you determine how to feed your baby according to his/her needs and can put an end to any confusion over what amount is okay for a particular feeding.