You're thinking about giving your baby formula in addition to breastfeeding, but it scares you… Don't worry, that's normal! Mixed feeding is a big step in your little one's life, as well as in yours.
We understand you have many questions when introducing bottle-feeding to your baby. This topic is something we're passionate about, and we're here to support you by sharing our knowledge and best tips.
This is what the #NewGenerationOrganic is all about.
At Biostime , we encourage breastfeeding for at least the first six months of a child's life because we know that breast milk perfectly meets a baby's nutritional needs. This is also what the WHO recommends. To ensure weaning goes as smoothly as possible, it is advisable to introduce bottle-feeding as late as possible, as this could slow down the mother's milk production.
Of course, you're the mom, so you'll know how to choose the best option for you and your baby.
If in doubt, please consult your pediatrician.
Why switch to mixed feeding?
You are returning to work, your baby is starting a new childcare arrangement or you want to regain some independence… Rest assured, all reasons are good to give your baby infant formula, while continuing to breastfeed.
⇒ So why am I afraid?
You've often heard, "If your child doesn't nurse enough, you won't have enough milk." So you're worried you won't be able to breastfeed at all. Fortunately, you just need to learn how to manage your milk production properly to continue breastfeeding your baby. We simply advise you to avoid, if possible, switching to mixed feeding before your baby is 6 weeks old, to ensure that lactation is well established.(1)
Let's start gently!
It can't be stressed enough: trust yourself! By respecting your own pace and gradually alternating between breast milk and formula, the transition will happen naturally. Your baby will gradually learn to position their tongue depending on whether it's a bottle or your nipple.
Why is my baby refusing the bottle?
Mixed feeding is a big change in your little one's routine. Therefore, they may refuse the bottle at first.
That's understandable! The contact with a teat and the flow of milk are different with a bottle. He therefore needs to get used to these new sensations before feeling as comfortable as he does at the breast.
Don't hesitate to talk to him! Gently explaining why you are offering him milk in a bottle and how it will go will reassure him.
To make him comfortable, adopt a good position for bottle feeding: place him in a semi-upright position and support his neck with your hand. Wait until he takes the teat in his mouth himself, as he would with your breast. This will help him get back into his routine.
Why choose a suitable infant formula?
We all know that breast milk is the best thing for your baby. When you start mixed feeding, it's therefore important to find the infant formula that meets your baby's specific nutritional needs. This will make the transition smoother and easier for your little one. We advise you to consult your doctor or pharmacist, who are qualified to advise you on these products.
Your baby's comfort and needs are our passion. That's why we dedicate all our energy to producing high-quality infant formula, in accordance with current regulations. We share this commitment with the Isigny-Sainte-Mère cooperative, with whom we manufacture organic infant formula produced in Normandy.
In our Biostime infant milk, we have chosen to replace palm oil with organic milk cream from Isigny Sainte-Mère, naturally rich in palmitic acid with a structure close to that of breast milk.
And how are things going for you?
Have you switched to mixed feeding? Are you still hesitating? Let's support each other by sharing our stories, doubts, and questions at contact@biostime.fr or via DM on Instagram @Biostime . We look forward to hearing from you!
Sources:
(1) https://www.mpedia.fr/art-allaitement-mixte/
Important notice: Breast milk is the ideal and natural food for infants.
