Changing to Formula from Breast Milk

//t6pkjlm3duijor2s-68713382167.shopifypreview.com/cdn/shop/files/Vector_13_small.svg?v=1699019170
Changing to Formula from Breast Milk

For a variety of reasons, parents might have to choose to wean their child from breast milk to infant formula. Your baby could have an allergy, your milk supply may be low, or you might simply decide that formula works better for your family. Whatever the reason, we have all the knowledge you require to make the transition from breast milk to infant formula as seamless as possible.

Nature has designed breast milk to give infants all the nutrients they require for growth and development. It is widely acknowledged that mother's milk is the most effective source of vitamins, minerals, and immune cells, enabling infants to successfully acclimate to their new environment and develop into healthy, strong adults. However, there are numerous circumstances in which the breast milk supply is insufficient, or breastfeeding is simply not an option.

Reasons for changing from Breast Milk to Formula

//infantiz.com/cdn/shopifycloud/shopify/assets/no-image-100-c91dd4bdb56513f2cbf4fc15436ca35e9d4ecd014546c8d421b1aece861dfecf_small.gif

Breastfeeding difficulties may be related to issues with the mother's body, the baby's body, or the relationship between the mother and child. If a mother must take a medication that may not be safe for a breastfed baby, the switch from breast milk to formula may be necessary.
Around this time, moms frequently return to work, so pumping at the office might not be as convenient as many moms had hoped. 

So, mostly by the third or fourth month, a significant portion of parents start transitioning their children from exclusively breastfeeding to formula feeding, either fully or partially. This change is being made for many reasons.

//infantiz.com/cdn/shop/files/YQaM7S_2__12_small.png?v=1701870525

Around this time, moms frequently return to work, so pumping at the office might not be as convenient as many moms had hoped. 

Some mothers merely want their partner or child's caregiver to assist them more during feeding. There are good arguments for switching to infant formula in each case.

Some infants fall asleep during feedings instead of sucking, which prevents them from getting enough milk.

Switching to baby formula is one of the suggested treatments for the serious medical condition of jaundice.

Other common breastfeeding issues include engorged breasts, mastitis, thrush infection, and cracked and sore nipples. 

All of these result in inadequate amounts of breast milk or difficulties supplying breast milk to the infant.

However, the most likely scenario is when a breastfed baby requires more breast milk than their mother is able to supply. A combination of bottle feeding with cow's milk-based formula and breast milk is frequently the remedy.

We must stress that there is no shame in switching from breast milk to infant formula, regardless of the reason. This article will provide you with a wealth of knowledge on how to support both you and your infant during the transition from breast milk to formula.

Best Formula for a Breastfed Baby

Choosing the right infant formula is the first step in converting your baby from breast milk to formula. It's crucial to be aware that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates all infant formulas legally sold in the US to ensure their safety. Make sure to pick one of these alternatives rather than a homemade formula or an imported formula that is not subject to FDA regulation.

Next, choose between formulas based on milk, soy, and hypoallergenic ingredients. A milk-based formula is probably a good option if your baby has been successfully breastfed and doesn't have a milk protein allergy. If you believe your baby might require a special formula, make sure to discuss this choice with your baby's doctor.

The choice between a powdered liquid concentrate and ready-to-feed infant formula must be made at this point. While ready-to-feed does not require mixing with water, liquid and powder concentrates do. Ready-to-feed is the most expensive because it is the most convenient, while powder is the least expensive.

Regardless of the formula you select, make sure to read the instructions carefully and adhere to them precisely when making a bottle.

Best Time to Transition from Breast Milk to Formula

According to the World Health Organization (WHO) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the best option for your infant is exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months, after which you should try to continue partial breastfeeding until your child turns two. It is your responsibility as a parent to decide whether to breastfeed or bottle-feed your child while keeping in mind their health and following a doctor's advice.

For both of you, switching to a formula gradually can be easier. If your baby needs to drink exclusively from a bottle by a certain time, you should begin about a month earlier. This may aid in their adaptation to bottles. Additionally, it helps you avoid breast engorgement, which could occur if you stop breastfeeding too soon. It's likely best to wait as long as your baby is at least three or four weeks old before introducing a bottle if you intend to nurse and supplement with formula. You'll probably have established a feeding schedule and a steady milk supply by that time.

In general, moms are better able to support their baby's health the longer they are able to continue breastfeeding. While the desired outcome, it occasionally proves to be impractical. When breastfeeding is not an option, a carefully formulated infant formula made from cow's or goat's milk can be a great substitute for the baby.

//infantiz.com/cdn/shop/files/YQaM7S_2__7_1_small.png?v=1702558005

Introducing Formula Milk to Your Breastfed Baby

For both the mother and the baby, the successful switch from breast milk to formula can be a significant challenge in many situations. In any case, the most crucial things are a healthy baby and a content mother.

Start by switching from breastfeeding to a bottle to begin the formula transition. If you can, it might be best to switch from breast milk to formula in stages. Start by introducing the bottle to your child.

Pick a feeding time you don't want to do or that your baby doesn't enjoy. Drop additional breastfeeding one at a time as your baby gets used to the change until you find the schedule you want.

While there isn't a single "best" formula for babies, your pediatrician should work with you to select one that is good for a baby and affordable for your family if you plan to bottle-feed. The process of formula feeding is made easier by this article on how to switch from breast milk to formula: the general steps to follow.

Steps to Successfully Weaning to Formula

You must select a baby formula as you get ready to switch. Consult your child's pediatrician or primary care physician for advice. What brand you choose to purchase is irrelevant. The variations in formulas are minimal, and they are all strictly regulated.

Learn about the most common types of infant formula as you consider the recommendations of your baby's doctor.

//infantiz.com/cdn/shop/files/YQaM7S_2__8_1_small.png?v=1702560210

Cow-Milk Based Formula

The most popular cow milk-based formula is made with lactose or other sugars and oils in addition to the proteins found in cow's milk. Some milk-based formulas have been processed to make them simpler for infants to digest. Formulas based on milk provide babies with all the nutrients they require during the early stages of development. Most babies respond favorably to this kind of formula.

Soy-Based Formula

This formula substitutes soy protein for cow's milk protein and uses sucrose or glucose instead of lactose. With a few exceptions, the AAP claims there is no benefit to soy-based formula over milk-based formula. 
For kids with galactosemia, an incredibly rare disorder, soy formula is advised. Talk to your baby's doctor about their symptoms; they might suggest a hydrolyzed formula. The AAP states that there is no proof that soy-based formulas reduce colic or fussiness.

Hypoallergenic Formula

These cow's milk-based formulas contain proteins that have undergone hydrolysis to be divided into smaller proteins. They are suitable for babies with milk protein allergies who experience skin rashes or allergic wheezing. The proteins are so small that the body doesn't recognize them as cow's milk. You might find words like "hypoallergenic" or "extensively hydrolyzed" on their labels.

//infantiz.com/cdn/shop/files/YQaM7S_2__9_998b5c6a-b53d-4382-a983-28a2ef032279_small.png?v=1702562377

Combination Feeding Your Baby with Breast Milk and Formula

It is possible to formula feed a child while giving them breast milk. You can choose the size of your increments! Be aware that in order to maintain some level of breast milk supply, you'll likely need to feed or pump at least three to four times per day.

Here are three typical methods used by parents to supplement or combination feed (also known as "combo feeding" or "supplementing") as they start introducing formula.

1_ Combining Bottles

Breast milk can be incorporated into the ready-to-use formula in any quantity. Be aware that if you mix breast milk with formula in a bottle, you must adhere to all formula-related food safety regulations, including discarding the bottle within an hour of the feeding's start.

2_ Alternate Bottles

Some parents alternate formula bottles with breastmilk bottles in order to preserve breastmilk, which has a longer shelf life. Due to the distinct tastes and textures of the two, some babies may find it difficult to switch between them.

3_ Alternate Feeding Type

Some mothers decide to breastfeed as well as bottle-feed! Because of daycare, some parents may bottle-feed during the day and nurse at night, whereas others may nurse all day and bottle-feed at night so a partner can assist. Whatever suits your family the best is acceptable!

Things to Remember While Making the Choice

It's crucial to consider several different factors when selecting the best formula for your infant to make the best decision. Some mothers prefer organic formulas over conventional ones; in this case, we advise you to look for a formula that bears the EU organic certificate on the package.

With this certification, you can ensure the product is free of harmful additives like hormones or synthetic fertilizers. Additionally, the mixture must pass several rigorous safety inspections before it can be placed on a store shelf and in your hands.

Infant formulas that resemble breast milk are now available and made not just from cow milk but also from goat milk. Suppose your baby is at risk of developing a milk protein allergy. In that case, it may also be worthwhile to do some research on hypoallergenic formulas.

Some Common Formula Milk for Babies

We believe learning about the wonderful world of European infant formulas is worthwhile when thinking about organic formulas. 

Our favorite brands include HiPP, Holle, Kendamil, Lebenswert, Löwenzahn, and Jovie. We think these are excellent choices to take into account. 

These premium formulas taste great, are extremely high quality, and are well-designed to meet a child's needs.

Conclusion

Many medical professionals generally advise mothers to wean their infants from breast milk to formula gradually. Suppose the transition is thought about after the baby turns one month old. In that case, mothers can continue feeding their babies with their milk while gradually introducing formula. By this time, a mom's milk supply has typically been established. In this instance, infants' digestive systems are given the time they require to acclimate to the novelty of formulas.

Leave a comment

Comment will be approved before Showing up




Back to blog