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Bottle Feeding

Most baby books will tell you that there is no better choice than breastfeeding. That being said, if you can't breastfeed, there are some good options for bottle feeding.

Modern formulas are scientifically designed and manufactured to mimic human milk. The operative word here is mimic: They contain roughly the same combination of water, vitamins and minerals, protein, fat, and sugars. The big difference is the source. Usually formulas are based on cows milk. Many baby books say that they are nutritionally sound. However they also will tell you that they don't have the antibodies, digestive enzymes, and other compounds that breast milk does.

If you are going to choose a formula to bottle feed, most baby books say you should make sure you pick one that is DHA enriched. Talk to your doctor about any other considerations or special needs that your baby might have.

As with breastfeeding, eventually you will develop a bottle feeding routine. This routine may shift overtime as growth occurs. Always check the expiry date on the formula you buy. You can keep opened formula in the fridge for up to two days.

You'll know your baby may not be getting enough formula if you noticed she isn't peeing as much, is showing slower than normal weight gain, or has loose wrinkly skin. When bottle feeding you should normally see about six wet diapers per day, that's how you'll know your baby is getting enough to eat. Your baby could be getting too much formula if she is spitting up alot or is gaining alot of weight.

Some baby books warn against letting your baby fall asleep holding her own bottle when you're bottle feeding as she could breathe formula into her lungs or even choke. If you feed your baby lying down she could end up with ear infections. The reason for this is formula could flow down the back of the throat and up a tube into the middle ear.

When bottle feeding the formula should be served slightly warm. Avoid microwaves as they can cause pockets of heat. Make sure your bottles are properly sterilized.

When feeding your baby keep her head and body aligned in a straight line and that straight line at an approximately 35-60 degree angle relative to the floor. This makes swallowing easier. You don't have to always finish every bottle, if your baby falls asleep, or stops feeding, odds are she has had enough to eat. Don't overfeed your baby.

Our bookstore contains many baby books on bottle feeding. They will help you to make sure your baby gets the nutrition she needs.

Disclaimer: The contents of this site are presented for general information only and are not medical advice nor are they meant to replace the advice of your doctor or healthcare provider. If you have any health related questions you should always ask a healthcare professional.




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