Thursday, February 18, 2010

How do I get my baby to take some formula?

Here's a question from a mom of twins:
I am wondering if you have any ideas on how to get a baby to take formula. My girls have been exclusively breastfed and have no problem taking a bottle of breastmilk usually. I however am looking to start supplementing or to at least have to ability to give them a bottle of formula if needed (I have been having a hard time keeping up with them nutritionally and being able to pump any extra for those just in case moments and would like to be able to offer them formula if needed).

The simple answer here is just put formula in the bottle and see what happens. Some babies are very flexible and will take it without problem. My own kids were supplemented at times and didn't ever seem to care.

But sometimes it's not so easy. Breastmilk tastes sweeter than formula and some babies with discerning palates might not be too happy about it..

I would get them used to the taste of formula by introducing it gradually. You could try adding 2 oz of formula to a 4 oz bottle of breastmilk. Chances are they won't notice the taste. Next time add a little more formula. Eventually they will be able to drink an entire bottle of formula although they may protest.

The textbooks will tell you that you need to pump everytime you miss a feeding so you don't loose your milk supply but I would say do your best. If you've been able to keep up breastfeeding twins this long, one feeding is probably not going to make a difference. Kudos to you.

Good luck and let me know how it goes!





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2 comments:

  1. I am now a follower and posted it on my FB so maybe more will join!
    Thanks for the great blog idea!

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