Switching formula can be necessary at times, but it also carries some risks that parents should be aware of. When deciding whether to switch formula, it is important to consider your baby’s health, nutritional needs, and comfort. While every baby is different, there are some general guidelines to follow to make a smooth formula transition. Understanding the potential risks and how to minimize them will help ensure your baby continues to thrive on his or her new formula.
Why would you need to switch formula?
There are a few common reasons for switching infant formula:
- Your baby has developed an intolerance or allergy to an ingredient in their current formula.
- Your baby is constipated or gassy on their current formula.
- Your baby is showing signs of reflux on their current formula.
- Your baby’s nutritional needs have changed and their current formula no longer meets those needs.
- The cost or availability of your current formula has changed.
- You prefer to switch to an organic or non-GMO formula.
If your baby is having an adverse reaction to their current formula or it is no longer meeting their nutritional requirements, then it may be necessary to make a change. Make sure to consult your pediatrician before switching formulas to ensure it is the right decision.
What are the risks of switching formula?
While every baby adapts differently, some potential risks of switching formula include:
Upset stomach
Babies’ digestive systems are sensitive and introducing a new formula with different proteins can cause gassiness, constipation, diarrhea or vomiting. Gradually transitioning the new formula allows their body time to adjust.
Dehydration
If your baby refuses to take the new formula or experiences diarrhea from the switch, they are at risk for dehydration. Ensure they are getting enough fluids during the transition.
Poor weight gain
If the new formula causes digestive issues that make eating uncomfortable, your baby may start taking in fewer calories and gain weight more slowly. Monitor their weight closely when changing formulas.
Nutritional deficiencies
Switching to a formula with a different nutritional makeup can lead to vitamin or mineral deficiencies if your baby’s new needs aren’t met. Talk to your doctor to ensure the new formula is optimal.
Increased spitting up
Some babies may experience increased reflux and spitting up when transitioning to a new formula. Feed smaller, more frequent meals and keep them upright during feedings.
Colic
The introduction of new proteins can cause gas, discomfort and increased crying in some babies. Following proper transition guidelines can help minimize colic.
Elevated allergen risk
Switching formula introduces new proteins and potential allergens to your baby’s diet. Take note of any rashes, vomiting, diarrhea or respiratory distress.
Picky eating
Some babies refuse to take a new formula. Try different bottles, nipples, temperatures and positions to encourage acceptance. Move slowly between mixtures.
How to minimize the risks when switching formula
Follow these tips to help make a smooth formula transition:
Consult your pediatrician
Discuss your reasons for considering a change and any concerns. Get their recommendation for a new formula to meet your baby’s nutritional needs.
Check formula ingredients
Compare the new formula’s ingredients to your baby’s current formula to see what’s different, especially any proteins or carbohydrates sources that are new.
Make a gradual transition
Mix increasing amounts of the new formula with decreasing amounts of the old formula over a 7-14 day transition period to ease digestion. Go slow!
Offer smaller feeds more frequently
Smaller, more frequent feedings put less strain on your baby’s sensitive tummy. Offer 2-3 ounce bottles every 2-3 hours.
Keep feedings upright
Hold your baby in an upright position for at least 30 minutes after each feeding to prevent reflux and spitting up. Keep upright after burping as well.
Watch for signs of intolerance
Note any changes in spit up, gassiness, stool patterns or comfort. If you see signs of an intolerance, slow the transition or talk to your doctor.
Ensure adequate hydration
Make sure your baby is taking in enough formula/breastmilk to stay hydrated. Offer extra breastmilk or electrolyte solutions if dehydration is a concern.
Weigh regularly
Weigh your baby before, during and after the transition to ensure the new formula supports adequate weight gain. Notify your doctor of any plateau or drops.
Offer a transitional formula
Some babies do better with an intermediate formula between the old and new one for a short transition period before moving to the new formula full time.
Be patient but persistent
Your baby may resist or refuse the new formula at first. Try different bottles and nipples. Keep offering tastes to encourage acceptance over time.
How to do a formula transition step-by-step
Follow these steps when transitioning your baby to a new formula:
- Pick an appropriate new formula in consultation with your pediatrician.
- Make sure you have enough supply of both the old and new formulas to complete the full transition.
- Create a transition schedule, mixing increasing amounts of new with decreasing amounts of old formula over 7-14 days.
- On the first day, do a 90/10 mix – 90% old formula, 10% new formula.
- For the next few days, incrementally decrease old formula by 10% while increasing new formula by 10% each day.
- Halfway through the transition, you should be at a 50/50 mix of old and new formula.
- In the final few days, reverse the mix to be 10% old formula, 90% new formula.
- After 7-14 days, baby should be 100% on the new formula.
- Closely monitor baby’s tolerance throughout, slowing transition if needed.
- Offer smaller, more frequent feeds during the transition.
- Keep baby upright during and after feeds.
- Weigh baby regularly to ensure adequate weight gain.
- Once baby adjusts after 7-14 days, continue offering only the new formula.
Going slowly and minimizing digestive upset sets your baby up for a successful formula transition! Consult your pediatrician if any concerns arise.
What if your baby is refusing the new formula?
It’s common for babies to resist a new formula at first. Here are some tips if your baby is refusing the new formula:
- Try different bottles and nipples – sometimes a change in delivery method is enough to encourage acceptance.
- Adjust the temperature – serve it warmer or cooler than usual.
- Add a dropper of breastmilk – the familiar taste may make it more enticing.
- Try different positions – hold baby upright, lay baby across your lap, cradle baby in arm.
- Offer very small tastes – let them lick residue off lips/gums without pushing a full bottle.
- Do paced feeding – go very slowly, let baby lead the way and take breaks.
- Mix very gradually over 14+ days – a slower transition may prevent outright refusal.
- Use transitional formula – temporarily use an intermediate option before making the full switch.
- Don’t force it – if baby is distressed, take a break and try again later without pressure.
Have patience, try different techniques and talk to your pediatrician if you’re concerned about dehydration or nutrition. With time most babies will accept the new formula.
Signs your baby has successfully transitioned formulas
You’ll know your baby has adjusted to the new formula when:
- Their usual feeding patterns resume
- Their spit up and gas return to previous levels
- Their stool returns to normal color/consistency
- They are sleeping and behaving like normal
- They are finishing most feeds without issue
- They are gaining weight appropriately
- They appear comfortable during and after feeds
When in doubt, consult your pediatrician. But if you don’t observe any digestion issues, discomfort, or weight changes within 2 weeks of exclusively offering the new formula, baby has likely made a smooth adjustment. Offer congratulations on a successful formula transition!
Common formula transition schedules
There are a few sample formula transition schedules you can follow as a guide when switching your baby’s formula:
7-day gradual transition
| Day | Old Formula | New Formula |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 90% | 10% |
| 2 | 80% | 20% |
| 3 | 70% | 30% |
| 4 | 60% | 40% |
| 5 | 50% | 50% |
| 6 | 40% | 60% |
| 7 | 10% | 90% |
10-day gradual transition
| Day | Old Formula | New Formula |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 90% | 10% |
| 2 | 80% | 20% |
| 3 | 70% | 30% |
| 4 | 60% | 40% |
| 5 | 50% | 50% |
| 6 | 40% | 60% |
| 7 | 30% | 70% |
| 8 | 20% | 80% |
| 9 | 10% | 90% |
| 10 | 0% | 100% |
14-day extra gradual transition
| Day | Old Formula | New Formula |
|---|---|---|
| 1-2 | 95% | 5% |
| 3-4 | 90% | 10% |
| 5-6 | 85% | 15% |
| 7-8 | 80% | 20% |
| 9-10 | 75% | 25% |
| 11-12 | 70% | 30% |
| 13-14 | 10% | 90% |
Conclusion
Switching your baby’s formula always carries some risk of digestive upset, dehydration, weight changes, and other transition issues. However, taking the time to do a gradual transition can greatly minimize these risks. Consult your pediatrician to find an optimal new formula for your baby. Then slowly mix increasing amounts of the new formula with decreasing amounts of the old formula over a 7-14 day transition period. Monitor your baby closely and slow down the transition if needed. Offer smaller, more frequent feeds and keep your baby upright during this time. Be patient if your baby initially refuses the new formula. With time, your baby should adjust to the new formula once fully transitioned. Pay attention for signs of intolerance but don’t panic at normal minor digestive changes. As long as your baby is gaining weight, having wet diapers, and seems comfortable, the new formula is likely a success!