Can you switch formulas

As long as you are following standard mixing instructions, it is safe to mix formula brands. You may be considering changing your baby's formula for a variety of reasons. If your baby is gassy, not sleeping well, or fussy, you might wonder if the formula is to blame. Price, availability, and ease of preparation may also prompt you to try something new.

Whatever the reason, there are a few formula basics to keep in mind before making the switch. All milk-based, iron-fortified formulas the type recommended for most infants contain cow's milk as the protein source and lactose as the carbohydrate.

Small variations, including different combinations of whey and casein proteins, do exist among milk-based formulas. The fat sources in these formulas are provided by different types of oils.

When switching to a new brand of formula, be sure to stick with the same type of protein. If you want to switch to a formula with a different protein source, check with your doctor first. Contrary to popular belief, spitting up or excess gas in your baby is usually not due to the type of protein in the formula.

Still, switching between brands can help parents see if their baby has any reaction to a particular brand.

The biggest difference between formulas is usually taste. Some children are quite picky about what they eat and may prefer one formula over another.

However, considering that the taste of breast milk changes depending on what a breastfeeding mother eats, flavor is not usually a huge factor for most formula-fed babies.

Below are some indications that your baby may have a true formula allergy:. As long as your baby is healthy and not showing signs of true formula intolerance or allergy, the formula you use really depends on personal preference. All brands of baby formula on the market are safe to use and must meet nutrient requirements set forth by the U.

While brand-name and generic formulas may have slightly different ingredients, they must both adhere to the same federal requirements for nutrition and safety. At the store, be sure to check the expiration date before buying any new container of formula.

If you order online, check the date before opening it so that you can return anything that is expired. Also pay attention to any off-odors, colors, or flavors when opening and mixing the formula. Only buy your formula from reputable retailers, as expired formulas are sometimes repackaged and sold with altered nutrition information.

Feeding your infant a formula that is out-of-date or one that contains different ingredients could have serious consequences, especially if your baby already has health concerns. The FDA recommends calling the formula manufacturer's toll-free number listed on the container if you notice anything wrong with your baby's formula.

It's important to follow the mixing instructions that are printed on each container of formula. Don't assume that because your standard formula says to use a certain ratio of water to powder, the new formula will be the same. Although it may be tempting to save money or change the taste of your baby's formula by watering it down, this is never a good idea. Formula especially ready-to-feed is expensive, but it is the only source of nutrition for most infants depending on their age.

Adding too much water will lower the amount of calories and nutrients your baby consumes and can affect their growth and overall health. If you are mixing two brands of formula, prepare each brand separately using the instructions for each one.

This way you can be sure the concentrations of each are correct. Then combine the two prepared formulas in your baby's bottle. If you are switching formulas on your pediatrician's recommendation to a hypoallergenic formula due to an allergy, for instance you will probably be advised to discontinue the old formula and switch to the new one all at once.

Some of these include:. Galactosemia: This is a very rare inherited disorder that prevents the body from processing a sugar called galactose which is present in formula and breastmilk. Soy or corn intolerance: While milk protein is the most common allergy in infants, some may react to the use of soy protein or corn starch in formulas.

These infants often benefit from the strategies mentioned above, and if indicated, a specialized formula that is thickened to help the liquid sit heavier in the stomach, such as HiPP AR Anti-Reflux.

Additionally, some providers may recommend a formula switch if they feel the baby requires a partially- or extensively-hydrolyzed formula. These formulas, such as HiPP Comfort , have broken-down proteins for easier digestion. You want to slowly introduce the new formula so that the transition itself does not cause an increase in symptoms. The infographic below presents a framework for introducing a new formula in a safe and controlled manner:. We know finding the right formula can be confusing!

If the goal is to prevent switching, choosing the right formula from the start is an important task. Be sure to check out our post about Finding the Right Formula or send us an email at hello littlebundle. Our Product Specialists are fellow moms and baby formula experts who love assisting new parents in finding the perfect fit for their families.

Close search. Just added to your cart. Continue shopping. Should You Switch Formulas? Things to Consider August 21, This is why regular well visits are important for babies so their growth can be closely monitored and a healthcare provider can decide if one of these formulas is necessary for a baby that needs to gain more weight.

Well, it depends. Sometimes a formula change or special formula may be recommended for babies with gastroesophageal reflux disease GERD 8 or infant colic. Or if their spitting up is GERD? You guessed it- only your healthcare provider can give you an answer. They have advised other parents on how to switch formula dozens of times before and they might have their own tips to share about the process. They will also be able to help you decide which formula is best for your baby. Sometimes you can or should change formulas right away.

Other times a more gradual transition is better. An immediate and total formula change may be medically necessary in some cases. In other cases, an immediate change may not be medically needed, but may be your only choice. If you make the switch all at once, be sure to monitor your baby for any new or worsening symptoms. Some parents and pediatricians prefer changing formulas gradually over a few days to slowly introduce the new formula.

This can also be a good way to change formulas if there is a reason to worry about side effects so the transition is slow and allows more time to watch out for any problems.