Showing posts with label Formula Feeding. Show all posts

Is homemade baby formula safe?.. Deficiency of some minerals such as iron and calcium

Babies need nutrients in a specific balance to grow healthy:

not too much of anything and not too little. Breast milk contains exactly all the nutrients and in the amounts needed, and infant formula can provide excellent nutrition when families cannot or choose not to breastfeed. But keep in mind:

It is important for the baby's health to use only products that meet standards set by the federal government and to prepare them according to label instructions.

The risks of homemade baby formula recipes:

While homemade formula recipes circulating online may seem healthy, less expensive, or an answer to baby formula shortages, they are risky. Homemade formula may not be safe or meet your baby's nutritional needs. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reports that some home formula-fed babies have been hospitalized for hypocalcemia (low calcium), for example.

Why can't I make my own formula or use cow's milk or milk replacers available on dairy shelves at the grocery store?

Although feeding babies cow's milk or preparing homemade formulas were common practices in decades past, they are not considered safe or recommended practices now. In the United States, laws and other government regulations require that baby formulas sold in stores meet strict ingredient standards intended to promote healthy growth and development.

The FDA also oversees how approved formulas are manufactured and stored. The government inspects both the formulas and the facilities where they are made on a regular basis to make sure that established standards are met to prevent contamination and spoilage.

Formula mixes made with ingredients found online or from other sources may not have certain vital components, such as enough iron or vitamins for the baby. Or they may contain too much salt or other nutrients that the baby's kidneys or liver are not equipped to digest in large amounts.

Also, regular dairy products like cow's milk or alternatives like soy, hemp, or almond milk are not designed with the right amount of very important nutritional sources including protein, iron, calcium, and vitamins that a baby needs. Even if they appear to have enough from the label, the chemical forms of nutrition may not be easily absorbed by the baby's body. Or, certain ingredients can affect each other (like calcium and phosphorus) in ways that aren't ideal for things like bone growth.

Why are the nutritional needs of the baby so specific?

The first year of a baby's life is extremely important for the development of the brain and body. If your baby does not consume certain essential ingredients in formula, even for just a few days or weeks, this can have long-term consequences for your baby and affect their ability to grow healthy and strong and do well in school. . Homemade formulas can also have contamination problems and cause infections or even serious problems with high or low levels of minerals such as calcium or electrolytes such as sodium.

The chemicals on the infant formula label are scary. How do I know they are safe for my baby?

The label lists the names of specific chemical forms of ingredients such as calcium and iron. These are ways considered safe to feed a baby. All FDA reviewed formulas have been shown to lead to good infant growth.

Can I buy formulas online that have been imported from other countries that are supposed to be better for babies?

No. These formulas have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not always transported or stored safely. They are usually very expensive and offer no benefits for babies that have been proven by research studies. Despite what you may read or see online, there is no scientific evidence that imported formulas are any better for babies than the formulas you can find on your supermarket shelves.

Can I make the formula work by adding a little more water than the directions say?

No, although it may seem like a good way to save money, FDA-approved baby formula is designed with the proper nutritional amounts as described on the product label. Adding more water decreases and dilutes nutrients and can cause serious growth problems or imbalances in essential nutrients such as salt that can lead to serious health problems.

Can I use toddler formulas if my baby is less than 12 months old?

No, it's not a good idea because the nutritional needs of babies are not the same as those of young children. Also, infant formulas have not been evaluated by the FDA in the same way as infant formulas. Look at the formula label and make sure it says it's formulated for babies. If you have any questions, ask your pharmacist or pediatrician to help confirm that you are choosing the best formula for your baby.

What can I do if I don't have enough money to buy formula?

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC):

Mothers who qualify based on their income can sign up for WIC to receive coupons for formula. For more details on how to fill out the application, visit the USDA website.

National Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP):

You can use your electronic benefit transfer card (formerly known as food stamps) to buy formula. If you are enrolled in WIC, you may qualify for SNAP.

Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF):

This program offers temporary cash assistance to families who qualify. Locate the TANF program office in the state where you live here.

Here are some tips from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) on formula feeding:

If you feed your baby formula, always make sure:

Choose a formula that has been evaluated and meets the minimum nutritional requirements established by the US Food and Drug Administration, FDA.
Prepare according to label directions, unless otherwise directed by your pediatrician to meet your baby's specific needs.

It is important that you DO NOT do the following:

Do not make a formula to make at home with store-bought ingredients, such as powdered cow's milk or raw milk and sugar.
Do not feed your baby under 1 year of age cow's milk or any other milk substitute you find in the dairy section of the supermarket, such as almond milk or soy drinks (sometimes it has the word milk on it). label).
Do not use formulas imported from other countries that have not been evaluated by the FDA.
Do not add water (water down) to formulas when mixing powdered formula or add water to ready-to-feed liquid formulas that are not concentrated.

Formula feeding:

Preparing to breastfeed a baby with artificial milk is not as easy as some mothers imagine. There are steps necessary for the safety of the breast and the health of the baby that must not be overlooked.

How many times have I wondered: should I mix the milk with boiling water directly or wait for it to cool first? Or can I keep the rest of my baby's unfinished feed for another feed?

Tips for preparing a baby's bottle:

Here are 5 mistakes that you should avoid for your baby's health when preparing a milk bottle:

Avoid mixing formula milk with boiled water immediately after it boils. Rather, you have to wait for the water to become warm, closer to lukewarm, because formula milk loses all its beneficial properties when mixed with boiled water directly, including vitamins, minerals and prebiotics, and becomes useless for the child, if it is prepared in this wrong way.

Get rid of the rest of the feed and do not keep it in any way, whether in the refrigerator or outside, because it spoils and harmful bacteria multiply on it, which can harm your baby and cause stomach problems.

Do not neglect to sterilize your child's baby bottles, whether with a sterilizer or boil them every time before use. Do not wash them with hot water only, and do not wash them with the dishes and utensils used for the rest of the family.

Do not test the temperature of the milk with your mouth, as this is one of the biggest mistakes that mothers make and transmit a lot of bacteria and fungi to the mouth of the infant. You should test the temperature of the milk by placing simple drops on your hands and never in your mouth.

Do not put too much milk, as it will not make your child satiate faster or for a longer period. Rather, it will turn the benefits of the feeding into harm and may lead to intestinal distress for the little one or chronic constipation in the best case. You must adhere to the amounts of the feeding that the doctor prescribed for you and are appropriate for the age and weight of your baby. To avoid any harm and for the safety of his health.

Treatment of the child's refusal to artificial feeding:

Every mother should be patient when facing this problem, and know that it is a temporary stage in the life of her child, and he, like other children, will eventually get used to artificial feeding. Here are some instructions that help you treat the child’s refusal to artificial feeding:

Try to reduce your child's excessive attachment to you, so that he does not refuse to breastfeed in your absence when someone else offers it to him.
Experiment with different feeding positions so that your baby does not get bored.
Try to move while holding your baby while feeding.
Don't just put the feeding bottle inside your baby's mouth, but make his mouth stick to the nipple of the bottle.
Wrap the bottle in a small piece of cloth; Because that makes your child feel safe, and reminds him of you while he is eating it in your absence.
Taste or smell the milk before you give it to your baby. Because its taste may change over time.
Change the feeding bottle if your baby rejects it, and use a new bottle that has attractive colors.

Reasons why a child suddenly refuses to breastfeed:

The child's refusal to breastfeed suddenly opens the door to many questions for every mother facing this problem. Since the child has been accustomed to artificial feeding for a period of time and accepts it, so the mother should look for all the reasons that can lead to this. For this reason, we present to you in the coming lines the most famous reasons for the child’s refusal to artificial feeding after getting used to it.

Child distraction:

With the development of their age, children begin to interact with the factors and people around them, and many older children suffer from being distracted by many of these factors. Such as: television, telephone, mother's conversation with others,

This is why many babies suddenly refuse to breastfeed. As a result of their preoccupation with all these factors.

If the mother begins to notice her child's lack of concentration during feeding, his distraction and his lack of interest in it, she should allocate a room in which the child eats his meal away from all the factors that keep him away from it, and then returns to complete his games with the utmost activity again.

The child is not hungry:

Many mothers begin to introduce solid foods into the children's diet after the age of six months, when all children feel very happy when they sit with their family members at one table to eat different forms of foods, and most of them gradually begin to refuse to breastfeed.

This should not be a concern for you; Because it is a natural result of the child feeling full and lacking his need for milk at that time, you can overcome this problem by offering milk to your child before his meal, and you should never force him to eat milk when he is not hungry.

Changing the taste of formula milk:

There are many factors that can affect your baby's enjoyment of formula; Such as: the temperature of the milk, the change of its type to another type, the passage of a long time after opening the milk carton and its taste changed, and the change in the ratio between water and milk contributes to the child’s rejection of it, because it makes him feel that it is too diluted, for this reason you should put all these things Keep in mind when you prepare milk for your baby; To avoid being rejected by him.

The baby needs to change the nipple:

The child's ability and ability to breastfeed develops with age. Some older children may feel frustrated as a result of the slow flow of milk from the narrow nipple that the mother has been using since the beginning of the child's life, and this may lead them to refuse to breastfeed in the first place.

The mother should pay attention to this matter, and be keen to change the type of nipple according to the age of the child, and she should also move gradually between nipples that have a different flow speed, moving from the slowest speed to the medium and then the fast flow at the end.

Reasons for refusing artificial feeding after birth:

Artificial feeding has become an important option for many mothers who have faced some difficulties in breastfeeding their children naturally, so the child's refusal to artificial feeding is a major problem for every mother, especially in the case of newborn babies. Because the child has no alternative but artificial feeding.

The child does not like artificial feeding:

Many children at this stage do not prefer the idea of artificial feeding in the first place, especially if the child was already accustomed to breastfeeding in his first days after birth, and the mother was forced to switch to artificial feeding for any reason. Because this makes him lose the physical bond that he used to have between him and the mother, and also makes him miss the smell of his mother, who makes him feel reassured.

You can overcome this problem by giving the bottle to the father or grandmother; Because the child will not associate the bottle with breastfeeding in this case, and therefore will not refuse artificial feeding until he gets used to it.

The baby does not like the nipple:

Many babies feel disturbed by the nature of the material from which some types of feeding bottle nipples are made, and others may be disturbed by the fast or slow flow of milk from them, especially since they are not yet used to breastfeeding, for this reason it is preferable to try several types of bottles that have nipples different, until you reach the nipple that your child prefers, and accepts artificial feeding through it.

The temperature of the milk is not suitable for the baby:

Some babies prefer to eat formula milk warm, and others prefer it cold, for this reason you should make sure every time that the temperature of the milk reaches the degree your child prefers, by placing drops of milk on your forearm, or using a thermometer designated to measure the temperature of liquids .

The child does not like the taste of formula milk:

There are many types of formula milk, and each of them has a different flavor and taste from the other. Sometimes babies do not like the flavor of some types of formula milk, especially babies who have been breastfed for a while.

In this case, you can introduce formula gradually by mixing it with a small amount of breast milk. Change the ratio between formula and breast milk gradually every day, until the proportion of breast milk decreases completely.

The child has a health problem:

The child's refusal to breastfeed reflects some of the health problems that he is likely to suffer from. In this case, the child remembers the pain he is exposed to after every meal, and this may make him enter into a continuous crying bout, expressing his refusal to breastfeed.

The mother should watch her child after each feeding, as he may cry as a result of stomach pain, for example. The mother should also examine the child's body; In order to check for any rashes or infections as a result of the child's allergy to cow's milk.

Artificial feeding according to the age of the child:

The amount of artificial feeding varies depending on the age of the child, as at today’s age the child’s stomach is very small, as he needs between 1-1.4 teaspoon of milk, and when he grows up, the child’s stomach expands and grows, so that he needs a larger amount, as indicated The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that a mother follow a bottle-feeding schedule.

Breastfeeding schedule:

Baby two weeks old:

Doctors recommend giving the baby 15 ml of milk at each feeding, then between 30-90 ml at each feeding for three feedings.

Baby's age up to two months:

At this age, it is recommended to give the child between 60-120 ml of milk in each feeding, every three or four hours.

Baby's age up to four months:

It is recommended to give the baby between 120-180 ml of milk at each feeding, every four or five hours.

Child age up to a year:

The older the child, the greater the amount of formula milk, as children between 4-6 months need no more than 240 ml of formula milk, until they reach the age of one year.

Tips for using a formula bottle:

When doing artificial feeding, it is important to follow some measures that preserve the proper feeding of the artificial baby, as these tips include the following:

Do not give the child any kind of liquids, including juices, or cow's milk under the age of one year, because they may harm his stomach.
It is essential to avoid adding cereal to the formula bottle.
Do not add honey to a bottle of milk if the child is less than a year old.
Consult a doctor when there is any problem in breastfeeding a child.

In conclusion, it is necessary to emphasize the importance and benefits of breastfeeding, as there is nothing comparable to its benefits, but artificial feeding has many advantages as well. However, the choice of the child and many factors determine the type on which he will be dependent for breastfeeding.

Advantages of artificial feeding:

It is possible that artificial feeding has many benefits as well, but whatever these benefits are, they will not be similar to the benefits that the child obtains through breastfeeding. In any case, the advantages of artificial feeding include the following:

Anyone can feed a child:

No person other than the mother can breastfeed the child, while artificial feeding can be done by anyone. It is also indicated that artificial feeding may also allow the father to communicate with the child, siblings, or other family members, since this type of breastfeeding does not It is mainly based on the mother.

It can be done in public:

Breastfeeding may cause embarrassment for mothers, as it needs to expose the breast, as many mothers are sometimes unable to find a place to breastfeed the child. As for artificial feeding, it can be done anywhere outside the home, after a bottle of milk is prepared and the child is breastfed.

Useful for children with lactose intolerance:

The benefits of artificial feeding also include that it is a good option for children with lactose intolerance, as the child in rare cases cannot process the milk that comes from the mother’s breast, as this condition is known as lactose intolerance, so artificial feeding is a good option, including milk that contains Soy protein milk.

Ease of tracking the amount of feeding the baby:

In breastfeeding, it is not possible to determine the amount that the child breastfed, but in artificial feeding, certain amounts of milk are placed in the bottle, so the mother can know the amount that the child breastfed, whether on a daily or weekly basis, and it may also be easy to wean the child from breastfeeding industrial.

What is Formula feeding?

Formula feeding, which is the second type of feeding for the baby, as it is also a healthy option.

It is possible that artificial feeding is not the choice of the mother, as the newborn child may not accept breastfeeding, that is, breastfeeding, and vice versa, it is also possible that he will not accept artificial feeding.

However, many mothers may resort to artificial feeding, because it is a healthy and easy alternative to breastfeeding in the first place, and it has many other benefits, but this breastfeeding also has disadvantages.

Disadvantages of artificial feeding:

Although artificial feeding is widely spread among mothers, due to its many benefits, it has many disadvantages, which include the following:

Formula is not a complete nutrient:

It is worth noting that whatever the quality of formula milk, and whatever its producing company, it will not be identical to natural breast milk, as breast milk contains all the nutrients a child needs in order to grow and develop in a correct and natural way.

In addition, formula milk is heavy on the child's stomach, unlike normal milk, which is light, except that formula milk may lead to obesity in the early childhood stage.

The need to prepare the milk bottle:

Breast milk does not require preparation or procedures for breastfeeding, while formula milk needs preparation that may take time, as it is necessary, first of all, to properly prepare the milk bottle.

In addition to the need to keep the bottle clean, by washing and sterilizing it, pouring milk into the bottle and warming it, that is, there are a lot of steps that the mother must do, and improper sterilization of the milk bottle can harm the baby’s health.

Financial cost:

Natural breast milk does not cost or increase financial expenses, unlike formula milk that needs to buy milk, a good quality milk bottle, in addition to buying a brush to clean it, and artificial feeding needs to buy a milk pump, except for the possibility of replacing milk bottles from time to time That is, adding extra financial costs every month, except for the mother entering into a spiral of what is the best milk for the child.

Effect on maternal health:

The type of breastfeeding, including artificial feeding, can affect the mother's health, because breastfeeding is a bonding process between the child and the mother, as the baby's skin touches the mother's skin during breastfeeding, which increases the bond between them.

Some studies have also indicated that women who choose to breastfeed rather than bottle-feed their baby have lower risk factors for breast and ovarian cancer, in addition to osteoporosis.

Breastfeeding is uncomfortable:

It is possible that the child may not be comfortable when feeding with a bottle of milk, as the woman must carry clean milk bottles, formula milk, and baby nipples, in addition to some supplies when leaving the house, and it may be difficult for the mother to control artificial feeding.

In addition, artificial feeding during the night periods is stressful, as the mother needs to wake up again and prepare the milk feed to feed the child.

The child's refusal to breastfeed:

Although many women resort to artificial feeding, children often do not accept artificial feeding. This means thinking of another way to provide the child with the nutrients, vitamins and minerals that he needs greatly, especially at this stage of development, even Adapts to the external environment.

Sterilization of plastic bottles:

You can use any method you find suitable and easy for you from the known sterilization methods.

Sterilization of bottles with boiled water:

Sterilization of bottles with boiling water, or what is known as sterilization by boiling, is the simplest and most common way to sterilize bottles after feeding, just follow these steps:

Place washed bottles, nipples, rings and caps in a large saucepan, preferably one designated for sterilization.
Fill the pot with water until it covers all parts of the bottle.
Place the pot on the stove and let it boil for five minutes.
Allow the feeding to cool in the pot until you can pull it out with tongs or with your clean hands and squeeze out the excess water.
Store equipment that you won't be using right away in a clean, airtight container in the refrigerator.
Wash these containers daily with hot soapy water and rinse with very hot water.
Use all equipment within 24 hours of boiling.

Sterilization of bottles with salt:

Do not use salt to clean the nipples, as this may be dangerous for your baby. You can also put your baby's feeding equipment in the dishwasher to clean it if you prefer, and then sterilize it in one of the aforementioned ways.

Freezing sterilization of bottles:

It is worth noting that there are many ways that help you sterilize your baby's feeding bottles, including that you put all parts of the bottle after washing it well in a sealed container in the refrigerator; Freezing and low temperatures kill microbes and bacteria, and you can put bottles in the refrigerator unless you want to use them after sterilizing them in any other way, in order to maintain their sterilization.

Sterilization of bottles with vinegar:

White vinegar can be used in the sterilization process by soaking feeding bottles in two equal parts of water and white vinegar, then rinsing them well with cold water. This trick is known to help remove stains and eliminate unpleasant odors, but make sure to clean the bottle well after using vinegar in it. ; So that the milk does not curdle, and it is possible to use sterilization by boiling to ensure that the vinegar remains are gone.

Reasons for cleaning and sterilizing baby bottles:

Have you ever wondered why it is important to clean and sterilize your baby's bottles? Babies simply have weak immune systems; So they're not strong enough to fight off a wide range of infections, and an important way to support them stay healthy is to reduce their chances of getting sick in the first place.

Milk is the ideal medium in which bacteria can grow. This is why it is important to sterilize all feeding equipment and keep the milk cool even before you feed your baby to prevent any infection or digestive problems.

It is very important to maintain the sterilization of all equipment, tools, and feeding bottles for feeding your baby, in order to ensure the preservation of his safety and protection from many diseases that may be caused by bacteria that grow in these bottles due to the remains of milk.

How to clean baby bottles:

It is important to keep the equipment sterilized and clean to protect your child from intestinal infections and the problem of diarrhea. So you should clean the bottles by washing them with hot water and soap after each feeding.

Although it is best to clean the equipment right after your baby has finished feeding, if you are not able to clean the bottle and nipple right away, rinse them with clean water to make them easier to clean later. Here are the steps for cleaning baby bottles and feeding equipment:

Wash your hands with soap and water and dry them well with a clean towel.
Unscrew all parts of the feeding bottle.
Check the nipples and if you find any cracks, get rid of the damaged nipples because bacteria can grow in the cracks.
Wash all feeding equipment with hot, soapy water and remove the water from the nipple hole to make sure it is clean.
Use a bottle brush to scrub inside the bottles and a small nipple brush as it reaches all parts of the bottle.
Rinse all parts well.

How to sterilize bottles:

After washing and cleaning baby bottles, it is very important to sterilize them. There are many ways to sterilize equipment to sterilize feeding equipment after cleaning it:

Boiling sterilization:

It is an easy method in which all parts of the bottle boil after being cleaned for 5 to 10 minutes.

Chemical Sterilization:

You can sterilize bottles with an antibacterial solution that comes in liquid or tablet form. This is a type of bleach that is diluted with water so it is safe for your baby but is strong enough to kill all bacteria.

Steam or UV sterilizers:

If your budget allows, purchasing such devices will be a comfortable and easy option to use.

Microwave Sterilization:

Simply place the bottle parts in a container, cover with water, and microwave.

Bottle sterilizer:

Sterilizers are of two types, and in both cases they have the same method of operation. These devices are very popular because they are cheap and effective in killing bacteria. For example, the steam bottle sterilizer is a closed device that heats and sterilizes at a temperature high enough to kill bacteria and is easy to use. Just follow the following instructions:

Put the clean parts of the bottle in the unit and make sure that there is a space between them so that the steam can move between them and sterilize them.
Add water according to the manufacturer's instructions, just turn it on and when the job is done the sterilizer will stop by itself.
Equipment that you will not use right away should be stored in a clean, airtight container in the refrigerator.
Use all equipment within 24 hours of sterilization.

Which is better formula milk or cow's milk?

Many parents wonder why they can't feed their babies cow's milk. The answer is simple: Young babies cannot digest cow's milk as completely or easily as they do formula.

Beyond digestion:

In addition, cow's milk contains high concentrations of protein and minerals, which can stress a newborn's immature kidneys and lead to serious illness if dehydration, fever, or diarrhea develops. Additionally, cow's milk does not have the proper amount of iron, vitamin C, and other nutrients that babies need. It can even cause iron deficiency anemia in some babies because the proteins in cow's milk can irritate the lining of the stomach and intestines, leading to blood loss in the stool. Cow's milk does not contain the healthiest types of fat for growing babies. For these reasons, you should not feed your baby any regular cow's milk for the first twelve months of life.

When your baby turns 1 year old:

Once your baby is over 1 year old, you can give him whole cow's milk or low-fat (2%) milk, as long as he has a balanced diet of solid foods (cereals, vegetables, fruits, and meats). But limit your milk intake to 2 cups (about 16 ounces) per day or less. More than 24 ounces a day (3 cups) has been associated with iron deficiency if children do not get enough of other healthy iron-rich foods. If your baby is not already eating a wide variety of solid foods, talk to your pediatrician about what nutrition is best for him.

At this age, children still need a high fat content, so vitamin D-fortified whole milk is recommended for most babies after one year of age. If your child is overweight or at risk of becoming overweight, or if there is a family history of obesity, high blood pressure, or heart disease, your pediatrician may recommend 2% (reduced fat) milk.

For ages 2 and up:

Do not give your baby 1% (low-fat) or fat-free (skim) milk before she is two years old, because that type of milk does not contain enough fat for her development. After age two, you should discuss your child's nutritional needs, including the choice of low-fat or skim milk products, with your pediatrician.

Probiotics from live bacteria:

Probiotics (meaning "for life") is a word you might come across when buying formula for your baby. Some formula milks are fortified with these probiotics, which are types of live bacteria. Doctors may also recommend probiotic drops or powders for breastfed babies. They are good or "beneficial" bacteria that are already present at high levels in the digestive systems of breastfed babies.

Probiotics to promote the balance of bacteria in the baby's gut:

In formula-fed babies, introducing probiotics into formula milks is done to promote a balance of bacteria in your baby's intestines and offset the growth of harmful organisms that could lead to infection and inflammation.

Increasingly, moms and dads can find probiotic supplements outside of the formula, even for breastfed babies. Research on the benefits of probiotics is not yet conclusive, and some pediatricians are adopting their administration for babies delivered by C-section or those whose mothers receive antibiotics during labor.

Possible benefits of probiotics:

The most common types of probiotics are strains of small organisms called Bifidobacterium and Lactobacilli. Some research has shown that these probiotics can prevent or treat disorders such as infectious diarrhea and atopic dermatitis (eczema) in children. Other potential benefits are being studied, including whether or not they may reduce your child's risk of food-related allergies and asthma, prevent urinary tract infections, or improve symptoms of infantile colic.

More research studies are needed:

With many of these medical conditions, the evidence confirming any positive effects of probiotic use is limited and further study is necessary. At this time, it appears that the benefits of taking probiotics only occur while they are being consumed. Once your baby stops consuming probiotic-fortified formula, the bacteria in the intestines will return to their previous levels. This is different than what occurs in breastfed babies, as the bacteria in the gut that result from breastfeeding are more resistant and set the stage for healthier outcomes.

Remember:

Before giving your child baby formula that is fortified with probiotics, discuss it with your pediatrician.

The best form of artificial milk:

Formula milks generally come in ready-to-use liquid, concentrated liquid, and powdered forms. The type that will work best for you probably depends on how much formula you plan to use, where you plan to use it (ready-to-feed formula is definitely very convenient when you're out and about), and how much you want to spend.

Start thinking in ounces:

Bottle feeding your baby will require you to think in ounces and adopt them as the standard unit of measure.

Here are the basic steps you'll need to successfully formula feed your baby:

1 ounce = 30 cc (cubic centimeters) = 30 ml (milliliters).
8 fluid ounces = 1 cup.
32 fluid ounces = 1 quart = four cups.

How to prepare each type of formula:

1- Powder:

The simple concept in this case is that you add powder to a pre-measured amount of water and proceed to shake the mixture for a long time. In what we assume is an attempt to avoid mixing errors, most powdered formula is mixed according to the same recipe: 1 scoop of powder for every 2 ounces of water. Powdered formula comes in cans that contain enough powder to make 90 ounces to more than 200 ounces of prepared formula. It is certainly the cheapest choice and really suits most babies. You can decide if you want to mix the bottles on the spot or if you want to prepare the bottles all day and refrigerate them up to 24 hours.

2- Concentrated liquid:

This is the formula option where you just add water as directed and shake. Again, mixing and measuring is a fairly straightforward procedure, as all brands of concentrated formula require equal amounts of water and concentrated formula. If you want to make a total of 4 fluid ounces of formula, you will need to mix 2 fluid ounces of concentrated formula with 2 ounces of water. Of course, many people choose to mix an entire can of concentrated formula (13 fluid ounces) with the same amount of water. The resulting 26 fluid ounces of ready-to-use formula is covered and stored in the refrigerator for the next 48 hours. While some parents find concentrated formula easier, cleaner, and more convenient than powdered formula, that convenience comes at a price.

3- Ready to use (instantaneous):

With this option, you don't have to mix, measure or mess around. It is typically sold in 2, 6, or 8 fluid ounce containers (4 to 24 packs) or 1 quart containers/cans (32 fluid ounces or four cups). The use of the ready-to-use formula does not require any indication. What you see is what you feed your baby. Although the "Ready to Wear" sign is relatively small and not always prominently displayed on the label, it would be hard not to notice the high price tag that sets it apart. Although buying ready-to-feed formula inevitably costs more than most formulas, there's very little room for error (assuming you don't confuse it with concentrated milk and dilute it with water). It is also the easiest way to avoid exposing your newborn to too much fluoride. Sealed cans can be conveniently stored at room temperature. Once opened, unused portions can be covered and refrigerated for up to 48 hours.

Sterilization of bottles and water:

Parents and pediatricians today aren't as concerned about sterilizing bottles and water as they were a generation ago, but many are considering it given recent reports of contaminated city water supplies and the rise in related problems. with food safety.

To start, always wash your hands before handling baby bottles or feeding your baby.
If you use disposable plastic bottle covers and ready-to-use formula, you need to make sure the nipples are clean. Scrub them in hot, soapy water, then rinse to remove all traces of soap; some experts recommend boiling them for 5 minutes.
Always carefully wash, rinse, and dry the top of the formula can before opening; make sure can openers, mixing spoons, jars, and other equipment are clean.

Glass Bottles and Formula Safety:

If you use regular glass bottles and concentrated or powdered formula, you need to make sure that the bottles and the water you add to the formula is free of germs. You do not need to boil the bottles; You can put them, along with mixing cups and other equipment you use to prepare formula, in a dishwasher that uses hot water and has a hot tumble cycle. You can also wash the bottles in hot, soapy water and rinse them thoroughly. This will kill most germs.

Mix with water:

Water for mixing infant formula must come from a safe water source as defined by the state or local health department. If you are concerned or in doubt about the safety of drinking water, you may use bottled water or boil cold drinking water for 1 minute (no more), then cool the water to room temperature for no more than 30 minutes before using. The lukewarm water will need to be tested beforehand to make sure it is not too hot for the baby. The easiest way to test the temperature is to put a few drops on the inside of your wrist. If not, you can also make a bottle by adding powdered formula and room temperature tap water just before feeding the baby. Bottles of powdered formula prepared in this way can be ready to drink because there is no need for additional cooling or heating.

Storage of prepared formula milk:

Prepared formula should be discarded within 1 hour of feeding a baby.
Prepared formula that was not fed to an infant can be stored in the refrigerator for 24 hours to prevent bacterial contamination.
An open container of ready-to-feed concentrated prepared formula should be covered, refrigerated, and discarded after 48 hours if not used.

Forms of infant formula:

Infant formulas come in three forms: powdered formulas, concentrated liquid formulas, and ready-to-feed formulas (not concentrated). If you use formula for your baby, regardless of its form, be sure to follow the instructions exactly. Formula milk diluted with too much water, for example, can cause serious health and development problems for your baby. It is also important to use clean water from a safe source, free of bacteria or other microorganisms that can cause disease, and low in certain minerals and contaminants that can be harmful. Read on to learn more.

When to add water and how much to use:

Non-concentrated, ready-to-feed formula:

Do not add water to nonconcentrated ready-to-feed formula. Remember that diluting it can be dangerous for your child (see below).

Concentrated liquid formula and powdered formula:

Use water to prepare concentrated liquid formula and powdered formula, but only as directed. Use a safe water source, certified by your state or local government. Unless the local water source is known to be contaminated, you can use tap water to prepare concentrated liquid or powdered formula. In general, however, it is best to use mainly fluoridated tap water and occasionally non-fluoridated bottled water.

How to mix powdered formula and water to make a bottle:

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides detailed instructions on preparing infant formula. Also look for instructions on formula can labels and other reliable sources, such as state WIC agencies. There are a few key points to remember:

1- First the water, then the dust:

Always add the powder to the water in the bottle, not the other way around.

2- Boil the water when necessary:

For babies younger than 3 months, those born prematurely, and those with weakened immune systems, hot water should be used when preparing formula to kill any germs. To do this, boil the water and let it cool for about 5 minutes. Then, serve it in a clean bottle and add the formula according to the package directions.

3- Cool the formula to body temperature:

If you are going to use the formula you have prepared right away, be sure to cool it to body temperature before feeding your baby. Run the prepared and covered bottle under cold water or place in an ice bath.

4- Check the temperature of the formula milk:

to make sure it is not too hot before giving it to your baby (see below).

How long does the bottle of formula last after you have made it?

Prepared formula should be discarded within one hour of bottle feeding.

Prepared formula that has not been fed to the baby can be kept in the refrigerator for 24 hours to avoid bacterial contamination.

An open container of ready-to-feed formula, concentrated formula, or formula made from concentrated liquid formula should be capped, refrigerated, and discarded after 48 hours if not used.

Why is diluting formula milk dangerous?

It has been reported in the news that some parents dilute formula to try to save money or feed babies water in addition to breast milk or formula. This can lead to a dangerous condition called water intoxication.

In the first six months of life, babies do not need water or other liquids, such as juices or juices, in addition to formula or breast milk, unless specifically recommended by the pediatrician. Adding extra water to formula or giving juices reduces the amount of nutrients the baby receives. This can slow growth and development. Excess water also upsets the balance of electrolytes and minerals, such as calcium, sodium, and potassium, which can lead to significant health problems, such as seizures. Therefore, always mix formula according to the manufacturer's directions, unless these instructions are specifically directed to change for infants with special health care needs.

How to check the temperature of your baby's bottle?

Check the hot water beforehand to make sure it is not too hot for your baby. The easiest way to check the temperature is to put a few drops on the inside of the wrist. If not, a bottle can be prepared by adding powdered milk and room temperature tap water just before feeding. Bottles prepared in this way with powdered formula can be ready for feeding, as there is no need for refrigeration or heating.

production and distribution of infant formulas:

To maintain safety standards for the health of infants, legislation in the United States and the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) govern and supervise the production and distribution of infant formulas. When shopping for infant formula, you'll find several basic types.

Cow's milk-based formulas:

Cow's milk-based formulas make up about 80% of the formula sold. Even though cow's milk is the base for these formulas, milk has drastically changed to be safer for babies. It is treated using heat and other methods that make the protein more digestible. More milk sugar (lactose) is added to make the concentration equal to that found in breast milk, and milk fat is removed and replaced with vegetable oils and other fats that babies can digest more easily and which are better for the growing baby.

Cow's milk-based formulas have extra iron added:

These iron-fortified formulas have dramatically reduced the rate of childhood iron deficiency anemia in recent decades. Some babies do not have enough natural stores of iron, a mineral necessary for normal human development and growth. For this reason, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that iron-fortified formula be used for all infants who are not breastfed or who are only partially breastfed, from birth through the first year of life. age.

Several foods (including baby foods) contain extra iron, especially iron-fortified meats, egg yolks, and cereals. Some mothers worry that the iron in infant formula will cause constipation, but the amount of iron provided in infant formula does not contribute to constipation. Most formulas also contain added docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and arachidonic acid (ARA), fatty acids, which are considered important for a baby's brain and eye development.

Some formulas are also fortified with probiotics, which are "friendly" types of bacteria. Others are now fortified with prebiotics, in the form of oligosaccharides manufactured to mimic the oligosaccharides in natural human milk, which are substances to stimulate the intestinal lining.

Extensively hydrolyzed formulas:

Another type of formula is extensively hydrolyzed formula, which is often called "predigested" since the protein has already been broken down into smaller proteins that are more easily digested. Ask your pediatrician to recommend a brand of hypoallergenic formula in the case of allergies or any other problems. However, keep in mind that this type of formula tends to be more expensive than the basic formula.

Soy-based formulas:

Soy-based formulas contain a different protein (soy) and carbohydrate (either glucose or sucrose) than milk-based formulas. They are sometimes recommended for babies who cannot digest lactose, the main carbohydrate in cow's milk formula, although a plain, non-dairy cow's milk formula is also available. lactose. Many babies have brief periods when they cannot digest lactose, particularly after bouts of diarrhea, which can damage digestive enzymes in the lining of the intestine. But usually this is only a temporary problem and does not require a change in your baby's diet. It is extremely rare for babies to have a significant problem digesting and absorbing lactose (although it tends to occur in older children and adults). Although lactose-free formulas are a good source of nutrition, check with your pediatrician before you start giving your baby lactose-free formula, as any problems are likely to be caused by something else.

With a true milk allergy causing colic, failure to thrive and even bloody diarrhea, the allergy is caused by the protein in cow's milk formula. In this case, soy-based formula seems to be a good alternative. However, up to half of babies with a milk allergy are also sensitive to soy protein, and therefore should be given specialized formula (such as elemental or amino-based) or breast milk.

Some strictly vegetarian and vegan parents may choose to use soy formula because it does not contain animal products. Remember that breastfeeding is the best option for vegetarian families. And while some parents believe that a soy-based formula can prevent or soothe symptoms of colic or fussiness, there's no evidence to support that.

The American Academy of Pediatrics believes that soy-based formula should be chosen over cow's-milk formula in very few circumstances. However, one of these situations is when babies suffer from a rare disorder called galactosemia. Children with this condition do not tolerate galactose, one of the two sugars in lactose. These babies are intolerant to breast milk and should be fed a lactose-free formula. In all states, a test for galactosemia is done in routine newborn screening.

Specialized formulas:

There are specialized formulas that are made for babies with specific disorders or diseases, including premature babies. If your pediatrician recommends a specialized formula for your baby, follow his advice on feeding requirements (amounts, timing, special preparations), as these may be very different from basic/normal formulas.

Saving the expenses of buying formula milk:

Purchasing formula milk is a significant expense during parenting. If you're concerned and want to be prepared, we've put together a short list of ways you can save a little.

Do your calculations:

We know it's not always easy, fun, or doable, but it may be worth taking the time to determine how much we're paying per ounce. You may be surprised at the result when you compare prices between brands as well as when comparing types and sizes.

Once you check the label and determine how many total prepared ounces you'll get from a given can or container, divide the price by the total number of prepared ounces. Depending on the retailer (seller), the price per ounce may actually be calculated and listed for your convenience right next to the full price posted on the shelf itself.

Stock up:

To do this, you must first make sure that your baby is perfectly satisfied with the formula she is drinking. Then take advantage of any deals or coupons she can get. Remember to check the expiration date printed on the cans before stocking up. Although many will have expiration dates an additional year, you don't want to save many cans that expire before you can use them.

Save receipts:

At first it's harder to know for sure that the formula you buy now will be the formula you buy forever (ie, at the end of the first year). While you are adjusting over the next few weeks, we suggest keeping your receipts, both for the formula and all your other purchases for the new baby, in a safe and easily accessible place.

formula feeding:

After the first few days:

Your formula-fed newborn will take 2 to 3 ounces (60 to 90 mL) of formula each time you feed him and will eat every 3 to 4 hours on average for his first few weeks. (Breastfed babies tend to feed more often and in smaller amounts than formula-fed babies.)

During the first week:

if your baby sleeps more than 4-5 hours and starts skipping meals, wake him up and offer him a bottle.

At the end of the first month:

she will be taking in at least 4 ounces (120 mL) at a time, with a fairly predictable feeding schedule of every 4 hours or so.

At 6 months:

your baby will consume 6 to 8 ounces (180 to 240 mL) each time she feeds, 4 to 5 times in 24 hours.

On average, your baby should take about 2½ ounces (75 mL) of formula per day for every pound (453 g) of body weight. But you'll probably regulate your intake on a day-to-day basis to meet your own specific needs.

Instead of sticking to set amounts, let him communicate when he's had enough to eat. If he gets restless or easily distracted while eating, he's probably full. If he empties the bottle and continues to smack his lips, he may still be hungry.

Children feeling satisfied:

However, there are maximum and minimum limits. Most babies are satisfied with 3 to 4 ounces (90 to 120 mL) at each feeding for the first month, increasing to 1 more ounce (30 mL) per month until they reach a maximum of 7 to 8 ounces (210 to 240 mL).

If your baby seems to consistently want more or less than these amounts, discuss this with your pediatrician. The baby should not drink more than 32 ounces (960 mL) of formula in a 24-hour period. Some babies may have an increased need to suck and simply want to suck on a pacifier after feeding.

feed your baby with formula on demand:

In principle, the ideal is to feed your baby with formula on demand or whenever she cries because she is hungry. As time passes, he will begin to establish a fairly regular schedule of his own. As you become familiar with her signals and needs, she will be able to schedule her feeding according to her routine.

Between 2 and 4 months of age (or when the baby weighs more than 12 pounds [5.4 kg]), most formula-fed babies will stop needing a bottle in the middle of the night, because they are consuming more during the day and their sleep patterns have become more regular (although this varies considerably from baby to baby).

Distract the child's attention with toys or a pacifier:

In addition, their stomach capacity has increased, which means they are likely to go longer without food between bottles throughout the day, occasionally up to 4-5 hours at a time. If your baby still seems to feed too often or consume large amounts, try distracting him with play or a pacifier. Sometimes patterns of obesity begin during early childhood, so it's important not to overfeed your baby.

The most important thing to remember, whether you breastfeed or bottle feed, is that your baby's feeding needs are unique. No book, or even website, can tell you exactly how much or how often your baby needs to eat or how to manage feedings. You will discover these things for yourself as you get to know each other.