Should I Switch My Baby's Formula? Addressing Feeding Issues

Formula Switching Issues

Hello, my child is currently 3 months old, and the IgE test report shows a level of 8.82.
The doctor recommended a hydrolyzed formula.
Around two months, it seems she started to refuse milk.
Currently, she is taking 150 ml, but since she doesn't drink much, I've extended the feeding interval to 5 hours, and I only feed her when she is hungry.
Sometimes she only finishes when she is very hungry; otherwise, she often leaves 30 to 90 ml.
Additionally, she tends to spit up after almost every feeding, at least 2 to 3 times per meal.
Therefore, I would like to ask if this could be an issue with the formula.
Should I switch formulas? Should I transition slowly, or can I switch directly?

DD, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/07/04

Dr. Xiao Kaiwen reply Pediatrics

If growth and development are normal, meaning height and weight are increasing appropriately, it is considered a benign period of milk refusal and normal physiological spitting up (you may try small, frequent feedings).
As the child ages, gastric capacity will gradually increase, and this should improve over time; observation is sufficient.
However, if there are abnormalities in height and weight gain, please seek medical evaluation.
Symptoms of milk intolerance typically include significant vomiting, diarrhea, blood in the stool, and skin rashes, among others, which may not appear related to milk.
If you need to switch formulas, you can do so directly without a gradual transition.

Reply Date: 2017/07/04

More Info

When considering whether to switch your baby's formula, especially in the context of feeding issues, there are several factors to take into account. Your baby is currently three months old and has an IgE test result of 8.82, which indicates a potential for allergies or sensitivities. The recommendation from your doctor to use a hydrolyzed formula, such as Enfamil's hypoallergenic options, is a common approach for infants with suspected allergies or intolerances.

Understanding Feeding Issues
1. Decreased Milk Intake: It's not uncommon for infants to go through phases where they seem to drink less milk. This can be attributed to various factors, including developmental milestones, distractions during feeding, or even the introduction of new tastes and textures as they grow. At two months, many babies start to become more aware of their surroundings, which can lead to them being less focused on feeding.

2. Feeding Schedule: Extending the time between feedings to five hours is a strategy some parents adopt, especially if the baby is not showing hunger cues. However, it's essential to ensure that your baby is still getting enough nutrition. If your baby is only consuming 150 ml per feeding and often leaving behind a significant amount, it may be worth exploring whether the formula is meeting her needs.

3. Spitting Up: Frequent spitting up can be a sign of overfeeding, reflux, or an intolerance to the formula. If your baby is spitting up 2 to 3 times per feeding, it could indicate that the formula is not agreeing with her, or she may be taking in too much air while feeding.

Should You Switch Formulas?
Given your baby's IgE levels and the feeding issues you've described, switching to a hydrolyzed formula may be beneficial. Hydrolyzed formulas are designed to be easier to digest and can reduce the likelihood of allergic reactions. Here are some considerations:
- Consult Your Pediatrician: Before making any changes, it's crucial to discuss your concerns with your pediatrician. They can provide tailored advice based on your baby's specific health needs and growth patterns.

- Gradual Transition: If you decide to switch formulas, a gradual transition is often recommended. This can help your baby's digestive system adjust to the new formula. Start by mixing a small amount of the new formula with the current one, gradually increasing the proportion of the new formula over several days.

- Monitor for Reactions: After switching, keep an eye on your baby's reactions. Look for any signs of allergies, such as rashes, increased fussiness, or gastrointestinal issues. If you notice any concerning symptoms, contact your pediatrician immediately.

Additional Tips for Feeding
- Feeding Position: Ensure that your baby is in a comfortable feeding position. Sometimes, a more upright position can help reduce spitting up.

- Burping: Make sure to burp your baby frequently during and after feedings to help reduce the amount of air swallowed, which can contribute to spitting up.

- Feeding Environment: Minimize distractions during feeding times to help your baby focus on eating. A calm and quiet environment can encourage better feeding habits.

- Watch for Hunger Cues: Instead of strictly adhering to a schedule, try to respond to your baby's hunger cues. This can help ensure she is getting enough nutrition and may reduce the likelihood of her becoming overly hungry and then overeating.

Conclusion
Switching your baby's formula can be a significant decision, especially with the context of potential allergies and feeding difficulties. It's essential to work closely with your pediatrician to determine the best course of action. By monitoring your baby's reactions and adjusting feeding practices, you can help ensure that she receives the nutrition she needs while addressing any discomfort she may be experiencing.

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