The correct way to change formula will depend on whether you are changing for medical reasons or personal preference. Follow the next steps to learn how to change your baby's formula safely.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Determine if it is the Case to Change Powdered Milk for Medical Reasons
If you are concerned that the milk your baby is drinking is causing a health problem, such as an allergic reaction, constipation, stomach air and constant tantrums, or other symptoms, discuss with your baby's pediatrician before changing milk. In some cases, symptoms could indicate an allergy or other problem that should be evaluated by a professional.
Step 1. Consult a pediatrician about symptoms that worry you before changing milk
If your baby has hives, a rash, redness, or vomiting after drinking milk, see a doctor right away. These symptoms could indicate a true allergy to milk or soy protein.
Step 2. Ask a professional for suggestions on which formula to use
If the doctor suspects a reason to avoid lactose or cow's milk protein, he may suggest a brand with soy or other hypo-allergenic ingredients.
If the doctor does not suspect a real medical reason, they may still suggest a brand that can improve other symptoms, such as tantrums, stomach air, a lack of iron, or little weight gain
Step 3. Do not switch to or from a soy-based milk or a particular milk without first consulting a doctor
Most babies should proceed with cow's milk-based formula unless there is a health or religious reason for choosing a soy-based milk.
If your baby was born prematurely or has had serious health problems and has been prescribed high calorie formula, do not switch to regular formula without consulting a doctor
Method 2 of 3: Choose a New Baby Milk Powder
If you are switching types of formula for economic reasons, personal preference, or to address minor symptoms potentially caused by a previous type of milk, choose the new milk carefully. Most babies should continue to drink the same type of milk unless the change becomes necessary, but considering that all types of infant formula are highly regulated, they should all contain adequate and complete nutrition (and should therefore be interchangeable).
Step 1. Choose a formula that has the same protein source
If your baby is drinking cow's milk formula, stick to the same type of formula when choosing a new brand, unless there is a medical indication to choose a soy milk.
If your baby has adapted well to a hypoallergenic formula or protein isolate, consult a doctor before switching to soy or lactose-based milk. Otherwise, simply choose another type of hypoallergenic milk
Step 2. Read the label
If your baby is used to drinking milk that contains iron, omega-3s, or other additives, consider choosing milk with the same characteristics unless you are unsure whether the additives may cause problems.
Method 3 of 3: Change the Milk Powder Gradually
Some babies can drink a new type of formula with no complaints and no gastrointestinal problems. If your baby shows no aversion to the new formula, switch directly. If your baby has a delicate digestive system, or doesn't like the new formula, change gradually over the course of a couple of days. Use a normal measuring cup to measure exactly the proportions explained below and avoid making too much or too little concentrated milk, as even milk incorrectly diluted can cause discomfort or health problems for children.
Step 1. Start with 3/4 of the old milk and 1/4 of the new milk on the first day
Having only 25% new milk mixed with old milk will disguise the flavor change for your baby.
Step 2. Increase the ratio to 1/2 old milk and 1/2 new milk on the second day
If your baby shows a negative reaction to the new milk - such as vomiting, diarrhea, or a rash - switch back to the old milk and consult a pediatrician about the symptoms.
Step 3. Prepare a bottle with 1/4 of the old milk and 3/4 of the new milk on the third day
If your baby continues to tolerate this well, the new milk will most likely be fine.
Step 4. Switch to 100% new milk on the fourth day
Assuming that your baby hasn't had any reactions during this transition, the new milk should be the new milk it should become what your baby expects and prefers.
Advice
- Look for coupons on the manufacturer's website, in newspapers, or in parenting magazines to get a discount on the brand you usually use instead of switching brands purely for a cheap look. Some baby milk companies even give free samples so you don't get lost as a customer, take advantage of these freebies!
- Avoid changing too frequently unless there is a medical reason.
