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Baby Formula Feeding

baby formula feeding bottle

Baby formula feeding is the only real alternative to breast feeding. Although experts recommend that 'breast is best' there may be times when formula feeding is the choice you make (or have to make) and stick with.

I tried to breast feed with both of my babies, but really didn't get on with it. My son was always hungry! and with my daughter she would start to feed and then fall asleep! I never knew how much milk she was having, if any!

I did breast feed my babies for the few days of their lives so they did get the all important colostrum that they needed.

Baby formula feeding is a choice that many mothers make, and you shouldn't feel bad because you don't breast feed. Breast feeding isn't for everyone. Some mothers can't breast feed for various reasons, and formula feeding is the only way to go.

Baby formula feeding - The choices

When you decide to feed your baby on formula milk there is plenty of choice of available. Here in the UK we have several popular brands including Cow & gate, SMA, Hipp, Aptimil plus many more. Every baby is different, but it will help if you try to stick to just one brand. Swapping and changing baby formula could upset your baby's tummy.

Baby formula can be bought powdered or ready made. Ready made is alot more expensive, so if you are on a budget, as many mothers are, then powdered formula is the best value.

Organic baby formula

Organic baby formula is becoming more popular now, with this being more widely available than ever before. Of course organic baby formula is going to cost more than normal formula. You could try Hipp organic infant milk at around £5.00 a box when bought in bulk.

Baby formula for colic

There are formulas out there for babies that suffer with colic. Aptamil do an easy digest formula, that is specially made for babies that experience feeding discomfort. Cow & gate make Omneo comfort, which I used with my son. Do check with your health visitor first before changing your baby formula. She will have good advice and may know of a good brand that other mothers have recommended.

Baby formula feeding - For the hungrier baby!

I used Cow & gate formula milk with both of my babies. My son went through a stage where no matter how much he had, he was still hungry and an hour later he would be crying again. Most companies will do a milk for hungrier babies. Cow & gate do the blue box, but take care. As my son suffered with colic, this heavier formula milk just seemed to make his colic worse!

Baby formula feeding - Whatever you need

The good thing about formula feeding is you get so many different sorts, there is bound to be one that will suit your baby's needs. From milk for hungrier babies, milk for babies with reflux, soy based formula for babies with lactose intolerance, formula with extra iron, but please check with your midwife first!

Babies can be changed over to cows milk at 12 months of age. My son hated it! My daughter loved it.

To see some tips on bottle feeding your baby, including sterilising bottles and how to make baby formula, click here.

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