Switching From Breast Milk to Formula

When switching to formula from breast milk, some babies may take awhile to get accustomed to the new process. There are several things you can do to help make the switch easier, such as weaning your child by eliminating one breastfeeding session every two to five days. Selecting the right formula for your baby can be a "trial and error" process, since some babies have difficulty digesting certain formulas.

Guide To Feeding Infants

How to Switch Baby From Breast Milk to Formula

If you have decided to switch your baby from breast milk to baby formula and are unsure where to begin, you've come to the right place. This article is about the "ins and outs" of switching to baby formula, including the things to consider when selecting a formula for your baby, a few of the pitfalls, and what to look out for when you have begun introducing formula to your child's diet.

(If you have any questions about the pros and cons of making the switch, start by reading Breastfeeding Vs. Formula Feeding to help you weigh your options.)

Switching Your Baby to Formula

Giving your baby formula is a sound, nutritious alternative to breastfeeding. All commercial infant formulas contain ingredients that have been formulated in such a way that your baby is receiving the best possible substitute for natural human breast milk. They contain the same nutrients as breast milk, with the same percentage of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals.

To give even the most skeptical person a little peace of mind, the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) maintains strict requirements for the marketing, production, and contents of all infant formulas. This includes nutrient specifications that include minimum amounts for 29 nutrients and maximum amounts for 9 of those nutrients. Therefore, your baby will not get any more nutrition from one brand or type over another.

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