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TheAmerican Academy of Pediatricians recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months after birth, but that is not always possible. Bottle-feeding with infant formula is an alternative way to nourish your baby. If you bottle-feed your baby, here are some choices to consider:

What  kind  of  formula  should  I  use?

Cow's milk is not an acceptable alternative to breast milk because babies cannot fully digest cow's milk. Feed your baby formula. Be sure to talk with your pediatrician before choosing a formula because there are several types to choose from.

• Milk-based formula - This is the most commonly sold kind of formula and about 80 percent of formula-fed infants drink it. The base is cow's milk, but it has been altered in such a way that makes it safe and easily digestible for infants. Most milk-based formulas are fortified with iron.
• Soy-based formulas - Some babies have milk allergies or are not able to digest lactose, which is found in milk-based formulas. When this happens, pediatricians often recommend feeding a formula with a soy base instead of the more commonly used milk-based formula.
• Specialized formulas - Sometimes babies who are premature or are born with a metabolic disorder or disease require a specialized formula designed for their needs.

Formulas come in several forms. Some are very convenient while others are more cost-effective:

• Ready-to-use - This is the most expensive form, but it's also the most convenient and easy to use. The formula comes in 4-ounce and 8-ounce sterilized, single-use bottles. All you have to do is attach a sterilized nipple.
• Ready-to-pour - This liquid formula comes in different-sized cans and to use, you only have to pour it into a sterilized bottle and attach a sterilized nipple.
• Concentrated/powder - This is the least expensive type of formula and is available in either a liquid or powder form. It comes in single-use packages and cans. Concentrated formulas are prepared by diluting the powder or liquid in a sterilized bottle with sterilized water and then attaching a sterilized nipple. When using this form, measure the concentrate and the added water carefully, because you want to make sure your baby is getting the right amount of nutrients.

Prepared formula that is leftover may be refrigerated for up to 24 hours.

What's  the  best  way  to  warm  up  formula?

Most babies are content with formula that is at room temperature. If your baby prefers warmed-up formula, heat the bottle (with the formula already in it) by running it under hot water from the faucet. This way you can ensure the liquid is not too hot and you can frequently check the temperature by shaking some formula on your wrist. Don't microwave formula because the liquid heats unevenly. Even though the bottle may be cool to your touch, the formula inside may be hot enough to burn your baby's mouth and throat.

What  are  the  different  kinds  of  bottles  and  nipples?

Three types of baby bottles are available: glass, plastic and plastic with disposable plastic liners. Glass bottles are very durable but they are a little heavier to use and they are breakable. Plastic bottles are also very sturdy and are more lightweight. Bottles with liners are convenient since the liners don't need to be sterilized but they can also be expensive to use.

You can choose several styles of nipples in either rubber or silicone. You should buy new nipples every three months. As your baby gets older, buy nipples with larger holes.

How  do  I  sterilize  nipples  and  bottles?

Bottles and nipples your baby uses should be clean. For that reason, it is recommended that they be sterilized. If you have chlorinated water in your home all you need to do is put the bottles and nipples in the dishwasher or use dishwashing liquid and hand wash them in hot tap water.

If you don't have chlorinated water in your home, boil the bottles and nipples in a large pot of water for five to 10 minutes.

How do I feed my baby?

Feeding time is usually an enjoyable experience for the person feeding the baby and the baby. Here are some tips on how to make sure your experience is a pleasant one:

• Wash your hands.
• Feed your baby in a quiet place and try to minimize distractions.
• If your baby is not overly hungry, take a little extra time to change your baby's diaper. Your baby will be more comfortable in a clean and dry diaper.
• Find a comfortable position and use pillows to support your back.
• If your baby is fussing, take the time to calm your baby down before attempting to give the bottle. Trying to feed an irritable baby may lead to your baby ending up with a tummy-ache.
• Cuddling with your baby is important and feeding time is the perfect opportunity to get in some skin-to-skin contact.
• When your baby is about halfway finished drinking the formula in the bottle, take a break and burp your baby to release any gas that may be accumulating in your baby's tummy.

A  general  rule  is  to  burp  your  baby  after  every  2  ounces  eaten.

 

For  more  infromation:  Please  consult  your  physician  on  your  next  visit.