Important notice: Breast milk is the ideal and natural food for every infant; it is best suited to their specific needs. If using infant formula when the mother cannot or does not wish to breastfeed, it is essential to strictly follow the preparation and usage instructions and consult a healthcare professional.
When breastfeeding is not possible or desired, or when the time comes depending on the baby's age or during weaning, infant milk offers an alternative that meets their nutritional needs, with one prerequisite: choosing it well and especially knowing when to change infant milk.
We explain everything to you, so that the transition is smooth for both him and you.
Before changing infant formula, let's first look at its different types.
Finding your way among the different types of infant milk is not always easy! So, to make the right choice, it is important to have the information to fully understand their differences and uses.
The first few months of a baby's life are very stimulating and their needs evolve as they grow and learn.
While the composition of breast milk naturally adapts to its growth rate, infant formulas differ according to the ages for which they are intended.
There are three main categories of infant formula: infant formula or infant formula for babies from 0 to 6 months , the stage 2 milk or preparation for the sequel from 6 months to 1 year and the stage 3 milk or growing-up milk for older children up to 3 years old.
Their main differentiating factor lies in their specific content of proteins, lipids, carbohydrates or even vitamins and minerals, which meets the nutritional needs of babies, in accordance with current regulations.
There is also Different infant formulas that address functional disorders: Hypoallergenic formulas, anti-regurgitation formulas, and specific preparations for babies with cow's milk protein allergies are available. These infant formulas are subject to medical supervision and can only be prescribed by a healthcare professional. (For more information, consult a healthcare professional.)
How do I know if I need to change my baby's infant formula?
Does your child spit up a lot? Do they cry during meals? Do they have digestive problems or... of the symptoms of an allergic reaction (breathing problems, skin problems…) 2 Is his digestion not flowing smoothly and is the baby suffering from constipation, or is he showing his dissatisfaction?
These are all signs that may alert you to a possible need to change infant formula.
First and foremost, the healthcare professional who is monitoring your baby is your best ally in deciding what to do next, and he or she will be able to advise you to help you make your choice.
Several factors can explain why your baby's infant formula is no longer suitable for them.
Each infant formula has its own composition, in accordance with current regulations. Relatively significant discrepancies may exist: the type of protein it contains (casein or soluble protein), the amount of lactose relative to other carbohydrates, and the presence of fiber or starch, These factors influence your baby's tolerance to one infant formula over another. 3
If your baby is refusing their bottle, it may simply be a matter of taste!
Cow's milk, from which most infant formulas are made, may not be to your baby's liking. You can then try infant goat's milk which also provides all the necessary nutrients, and always in accordance with current regulations.
Some tips for switching infant formula
Once you have made your choice to change your infant formula, Start the transition gently . You can replace one bottle during the day with the new formula. Give your baby time to get used to the taste and texture. Then, little by little, you can continue to gradually replace the bottles of the original formula with those of the new formula.
During this phase of switching to infant formula, your baby may experience some digestive discomfort. This should return to normal after a few days.
In any case, remember that your healthcare professional is there to support and advise you on changing infant formula with complete peace of mind!
Share your stories!
We hope this article has answered your questions.
If you have any questions, or would like to share your experience with us, please feel free to write to us at contact@biostime.fr or in a private message on Instagram@biostime.fr.
* in accordance with current regulations
1 Ameli, Your baby's first months: milk only, 24/06/2024, available here: https://www.ameli.fr/assure/sante/themes/alimentation-0-3-ans/premiers-mois-lait-uniquement
2 Mpedia, CMPA: Cow's Milk Protein Allergy, 25/05/2021, available here: https://www.mpedia.fr/art-aplv-allergie-proteines-lait-vache/
3 Mpedia, Should Baby Drink Exclusively the Same Milk? Accessed 06/06/2024, available here: https://www.mpedia.fr/qr/bebe-boire-exclusivement-meme-lait/
