If breastfeeding is not an option for you or not your choice, you can feed your baby formula. Infant formula is a healthy alternative to breastmilk and provides babies with the nutrients they need to grow and thrive. Show Feedings can be a time of giving more than nutrients to your baby. Here are some suggestions for making this a special time for both you and your baby:
If you think your baby is having problems with their formula, talk with your baby's health care provider before you change formula. (Your baby will need two weeks to adjust to a new formula.)
Talk with your baby's health care provider about what formula is best for your baby. Although there are many types of formula, most babies do well with one that is cow-milk based. Unless your baby's health care provider advises against it, choose a formula that is iron-fortified. This is important to prevent iron deficiency, which can slow development. Once made up, all formula must be refrigerated. Formula should be thrown out after 24 hours if it has not been used. The different types of formula are:
Don't add honey to the formula or put it on the nipple. Honey can make your baby sick. You should never give honey to a child younger than one year old.
You will find many kinds of bottles and nipples at the store. Try several kinds and see what you and your baby like best. Bottles are made of glass or plastic. When choosing a bottle, consider:
Nipples come in several shapes and sizes. They can be made of silicon or latex. Consider the following:
Bottle and nipple cleaning tips
How to mix and handle formula
How to formula feed
How much to formula feedHere are the amounts of formula your baby needs:
As your baby grows, continue to increase the amount of formula based on their appetite and hunger cues. Macrosomia can cause complications to both the mother and baby. Problems with the mother include:
Problems with the baby that may arise include:
Babies born large are at risk for these complications in adulthood:
They’re also at risk of developing metabolic syndrome. This cluster of conditions includes high blood pressure, high blood sugar, excess fat around the waist, and abnormal cholesterol levels. As the child gets older, metabolic syndrome can increase their risk for conditions like diabetes and heart disease. |