Category: Baby Formula

Infant Care: Guide to Formula Feeding a Baby

7/4/2016

by Lyn Lomasi, Write W.A.V.E. Media Staff

One of the most important aspects of infant care is nourishment. If you've decided to bottle feed out of choice or necessity, this guide to formula feeding may come in handy. It's a collection of some my best articles on formula feeding a baby.

Choosing the Right Newborn Formula for Your Baby
After choosing formula feeding for your baby, you will then need to choose an appropriate formula. This article should help you choose the right newborn formula for your bottle feeding baby.

How Many Ounces of Formula Does a Newborn Drink?
When you’re new at parenting, you may not know exactly how much to feed your baby.

How many ounces of formula does a newborn drink?

Infant Formula Dos and Don'ts for New Parents
When it comes to formula feeding, there are some things that are a must. There also are things that will be a definite no-no. Here is my list of infant formula do's and don'ts for new parents.

Newborn Feeding Guide for New Moms
If you're a new mom, you likely have many questions about feeding your new baby. Being a mom to multiple kids, as well as a former nanny, I offer tips and advice related both to formula feeding and breastfeeding based on my experiences and research.

Soy Baby Formula Benefits
Choosing the right formula can be a challenge. There are many great options for parents to consider. This article discusses some of the benefits of formula feeding a baby with a soy-based formula.

How to Tell If Your Baby Has a Soy Allergy
Cow's milk may be the most popular formula allergy to be discussed, but it isn't the only one. Did you know that a baby can be allergic to soy milk based formula as well? This article explains common soy allergy warning signs when formula feeding a baby.

How to Reduce Infant Spit Up
Infants spit up. That's a fact that cannot be completely avoided. However, there are ways to reduce infant spit up, whether formula feeding a baby or breast feeding. This article gives tips and advice on reducing the occurrence of infant spit up.

How Can I Cure My Formula-Fed Baby's Vomiting?
Spitting up is normal in babies. But vomiting is a warning sign. How can you tell which one your baby is experiencing? How can you cure vomiting in a formula feeding baby? This article can help parents faced with this issue.

5 Secrets To Successfully Bottle-Feeding Your Infant
Feeding your baby can often be a challenge, no matter the method. Here are 5 secrets to successfully bottle-feeding your infant.

What NOT To Do When Bottle-Feeding An Infant
So you’ve read up on successfully bottle-feeding your baby. Now, here’s what NOT to do.

Crying Baby with Colic? Soothing Sounds Plus Bonus Tips to Comfort a Colicky Baby
Babies who are breastfeeding, as well as those who are formula feeding can develop colic. Colicky babies often are uncomfortable and cranky. Many times soothing sounds will help. Here are some of the best soothing sounds for babies with colic.

How to Help a Newborn Poop
Sometimes your newborn may have difficulties making a bowel movement. Learn how to help a newborn poop safely.

*This is not meant to be a complete guide on formula feeding a baby. It also should not substitute the advice of a licensed medical professional. Your child's pediatrician is always the best source for health matters.

How Many Ounces of Formula Does a Newborn Drink?

7/4/2016

by Lyn Lomasi, Write W.A.V.E. Media Staff

When your baby is first born, it’s important to make sure they feed often enough. Newborns grow quickly and regularly and need proper nourishment in order to thrive. So, if you’re not breastfeeding, how many ounces of formula does a newborn drink and how often should they feed?

How Many Ounces of Formula Does a Newborn Drink?

A newborn baby generally will drink from 1 - 3 ounces of formula at once, depending on their size. Smaller babies may drink less at once, due to their tiny stomachs, but will increase amounts as they grow to accommodate. Most should drink from 2-3 ounces at a time. However, ask your pediatrician for your baby’s specific needs, as they may vary.

How Often Should I Feed My Newborn Baby?

A newborn baby should feed every 2 - 3 hours, but might go up to 4 hours without feeding on occasion. If your newborn sleeps past 4 hours or doesn’t demand to be fed at that point, you will need to feed him or her anyway. Newborns should never go longer than 4 hours without eating. If your baby asks to be fed more often, that’s fine. Some babies feed on demand. A newborn won’t feed if they’re not hungry. Therefore, you can’t overfeed a newborn.

How Long Can Formula Sit Out?

Follow the instructions on your exact infant formula package, as they can vary. Most formula can remain unrefrigerated for up to two hours if the baby hasn’t drank from the bottle. If the baby has drank from the bottle, instead it will last only an hour, due to bacteria concerns.

Formula Feeding Safety Tips

Make sure to burp your baby after feeding each half to full ounce
Use bottles and nipples designed to help prevent gas bubbles
Never feed baby formula that has been left out for too long
Refrigerate unfed formula only (once fed, it is no longer good to refrigerate)
Never heat formula in the microwave
Never prop a newborn’s bottle for feeding
Use only the scoop that came with the formula to measure
The directions on your formula package should be trusted before the advice here
Disinfect all bottles properly

How to Get Free Baby Formula

If you’re a low-income family, many food banks will provide infant formula for free, as will other charitable organizations. You can also sign up for discounts and free samples on infant formula websites, such as Enfamil.com. Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) also provides free formula to those who qualify.

*This is not meant to be a complete guide on formula feeding a baby. It also should not substitute the advice of a licensed medical professional. Your child's pediatrician is always the best source for health matters.

Infant Formula Dos and Don'ts for New Parents

7/4/2016

by Lyn Lomasi, Write W.A.V.E. Media Staff

Making the decision on how to nourish a baby is one of the most important decisions new parents can make. If you've made the choice to formula feed your baby, there likely are some things you're wondering about. There are some things you should remember to do, as well as some don'ts when using formula to feed your baby.

DO Compare Brands and Types
Compare different brands and types of formula for nutrition value, as well as baby's specific needs. Ask the pediatrician what is recommended. Not all babies will have the same nutritional needs, so it is important to follow that advice, as well as research brands and types to find out which best meets the needs of your infant.

DON’T Buy the Cheapest Formula Without Research
The cheapest formula may be the one

your baby needs, but don't buy the cheapest just to save money. Always do research and listen to the pediatrician. It's good to save money in most cases, but not at the expense of your infant's health and nutrition.

DO Stock Up When Practical
Sometimes stores will have sales on baby formula. When baby has no issues with formula, it can be practical to stock up. It's wise to be sure you have been using the same formula to feed your baby for a while before stocking up.

DON’T Switch Brands Too Often
Switching formula can be tough on a baby's stomach. Try not to switch from the type of formula you are using unless recommended by the pediatrician.

DO Prepare Formula in Advance Where Practical
Some new moms may find it easier to prepare bottles in advance when using formula to feed a baby. However, if there is not a practical and safe way to store the bottles, it may not be a good idea.

DON’T Feed Baby Formula That Has Been Out Longer Than Recommended
New moms can check the label of the infant formula to see how long it can be unrefrigerated before going bad, as well as how long it can be refrigerated before it spoils.

DO Follow Preparation Instructions Exactly
Baby formula is developed in a way that provides a particular amount of nutrition to the infant. If it is prepared wrong, the nutritional value is altered.

DON'T Use More or Less Powder or Mixture Than Suggested
Using formula to feed a baby can be healthy if done right. Using too much mixture can cause gas, constipation, and other complications. Using less than suggested can cause poor nutrition and take away essential nutrients.

DO Heat Baby Formula Before Feeding
Babies should drink their bottles heated at an appropriate temperature. Room temperature is ideal. Babies should not drink cold bottles or those that are too hot. Both can be dangerous.

DON’T Use a Microwave For Heating Formula
Do not use a microwave to heat formula in a baby bottle or other container. Because microwaves heat unevenly, this could result in scalding.

-- Note that the author is not a licensed medical professional. The above is provided for informational purposes. Always consult a licensed medical professional for any advice pertaining to health matters.

Choosing the Right Newborn Formula for Your Baby

6/30/2016

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by Lyn Lomasi, Write W.A.V.E. Media Staff

While most experts agree that breastfeeding is the healthiest option, that isn't always possible for everyone. Now that you've come to the conclusion that baby formula will be your baby's source of nutrition, you may be in the process of deciding which newborn formula is right for your baby. There are many factors to consider during this decision process.

Talk With Your Child's Pediatrician

Deciding which newborn formula is right for your baby should always involve a talk with your

child's pediatrician. The pediatrician can make recommendations for what may be the best choices, as well as base recommendations on a child's individual needs. If your baby has any health conditions or allergies, consulting the pediatrician about the formula is vital in making the best choice.

Know the Most Common Formula Types

Newborn babies will generally start out with a cow's milk newborn formula, unless there are known allergies or health conditions that warrant against it. Cow's milk newborn formula will be fortified with vitamins and nutrients that baby needs to grow.

Other types include:

Variants of cow’s milk
Soy
Lactose-Free
Hypoallergenic (currently protein hydrolysate or amino acid)
Goat's Milk (not recommended for newborns)

Specialized formula that addresses specific medical needs also exists. Deciding which newborn formula is right for your baby involves knowledge on each of these, as well as your baby.

Know Your Baby's Nutritional Needs

If your pediatrician has recommended a newborn formula that contains Omega-3 proteins, such as DHA and ARA, be sure to factor that in when deciding which newborn formula is right for your baby. One example is that of premature babies. They may require a specific type of newborn formula for optimal growth and health.

Know Your Newborn's Allergy and Medical History

If food allergies are present, deciding which newborn formula is right for your baby will include considering which options are the safest. Also keep in mind any medical issues, such as prematurity, gastrointestinal conditions, and more. In such circumstances, the pediatrician should always be consulted for the safest choice.

Factor the Cost

After taking into consideration the factors above, as well as any other personal or pediatrician-recommended concerns, think about the cost. The goal should be not to find the cheapest formula, but to find what you can afford within the formula types suited to your baby's needs. Buying in bulk during sales and shopping around can help with this. Buying in bulk works best once the baby has been doing well with the formula choice for a good amount of time.

*WARNING: Although cow’s milk, goat’s milk, and other common ingredients are used to create infant formula, these alone are not enough to provide adequate nutrition. Infant formula must contain specific amounts of very specific ingredients in order to be used for exclusive feeding. For your baby’s health and well-being, ALWAYS consult your pediatrician if you’re interested in a homemade or alternative formula for your baby.

** Note that the author is not a licensed medical professional. The above is provided for informational purposes. Always consult a licensed medical professional for any advice pertaining to health matters.

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Soy Baby Formula Benefits

6/28/2016

by Lyn Lomasi, Write W.A.V.E. Media Staff

If you are pregnant or have a newborn baby, you may be wondering about the health benefits of soy baby formula, compared to breast milk, cow's milk-based formula, or another formula type. Are there health benefits to soy formula over other formulas, and when should a baby drink soy formula?

Soy Formula May Decrease Rotavirus Infections

According to ScienceDaily, research has shown that soy isoflavones found in soy baby formula may help decrease the likelihood of rotavirus infections. Rotavirus infections are the leading cause of diarrhea in infants. Also, just like cow's milk baby formula, soy baby formula can be an adequate source of nutrition during baby's first year. This may leave some parents wondering if they should use soy baby formula from the start or make the switch to soy baby formula for their infant's health.

Are Soy Baby Formula Benefits Worth The Risks?

While there are health benefits to soy baby formula, that does not mean it is the correct choice for every infant. Each baby has unique medical and nutritional needs. Therefore, any dietary habits should be discussed with the baby's pediatrician. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), soy-based infant formula should be used only in certain circumstances.

Soy baby formula used to be a common alternative for infants who were lactose intolerant, but that is no longer the case. There now is lactose-free baby formula, as well as hypoallergenic baby formula. Many babies who have an allergic reaction to cow's milk will also have an allergic reaction with soy based formula. In fact, a significant percentage of infants who have severe gastrointestinal problems as a reaction to cow's milk baby formula will likely have similar reactions to soy baby formula.

Which Babies Should Consume Soy Baby Formula?

The benefits of soy baby formula are said to be recommended to infants who have strict vegans as parents. Infants who have true lactose intolerance (not to be confused with a cow's milk allergy) could also benefit from soy baby formula. Although, as mentioned above, there are other options.

Another group of infants that is said to gain health benefits from soy baby formula are those with congenital galactosemia. Babies with this rare condition do not have the enzyme that would turn galactose into glucose. Galactose is found in breast milk, cow's milk, and other dairy products. If too much galactose builds up in the body, it can lead to serious health concerns, including death. Therefore, soy baby formula is recommended for infants who have congenital galactosemia.

Discuss Soy Baby Formula With Your Pediatrician

If you are concerned about your baby’s health or are curious about soy baby formula, ask your pediatrician. The research and information above is not intended as a replacement for discussing a child's health and nutritional needs with a qualified pediatrician. Before starting, switching, or stopping any type of baby formula, the child's pediatrician should always be consulted.

-- Note that the author is not a licensed medical professional. The above is provided for informational purposes. Always consult a licensed medical professional for any advice pertaining to health matters.

Indications Your Newborn Has Gas Pains

3/27/2016

by Lyn Lomasi, Write W.A.V.E. Media Staff

Image © MarkDoliner; Flickr.com

Newborns can have the tendency to get gas pains and there are some signs parents should be aware of. Paying attention to your baby's actions and cries can help aid in determining if your newborn is experiencing gas pains. As a mother and former nanny, I have had plenty of varied experiences related to newborn gas pains. I have also researched the topic extensively over the years.

When a newborn has gas pains, the sooner a parent figures this out, the better for the newborn. This way, steps can be taken to relieve the gas and hopefully alleviate the pain. It isn't always easy, especially for a new parent, to determine which symptoms are indications a newborn has gas pains. The information below is not meant to be a complete diagnostic guide, but may help parents find some of the answers they need.

Crying

Not all crying is an indication of gas or gas pains. Because newborn babies cannot talk, crying is the most common form of communication for a variety of their needs. They will learn to use it as a means of communication. Generally, sharp and piercing cries will indicate pain, but not all babies are the same. If you notice such a cry after feeding, this may be one of the varied indications your newborn has gas pains.

Crankiness

A baby can be cranky for several reasons. Before deciding it's one of the indications your newborn has gas pains, consider other reasons. Is the baby sleepy, hungry, or in need of a diaper change? Does the baby want to be held, swaddled, or given a pacifier? If none of those apply and the crankiness cannot be soothed with conventional methods, your newborn may have gas pains.

Movements

Pay attention to your baby's movements. Some newborns will draw their legs in toward the chest and then push them straight out when gas pains are present. Although, some infants do this for other reasons as well. Another common movement that may be related to gas pains is clenched fists. If your baby is doing one or both, these are possible indications your newborn has gas pains.

Feeding Habits

When newborns are experiencing gas pains, they may refuse the breast or bottle. Refusing to feed does not always indicate gas pains, but it can. The baby may also just be tired, not hungry, or need to burp but is not necessarily in pain.

Sleep Habits

If a baby is having a tough time sleeping, it may be one indicator of gas pains. But, babies can remain awake for a variety of reasons. Pay attention to other cues, like those above as well.

-- Note that the author is not a licensed medical professional. The above is provided for informational purposes. Always consult a licensed medical professional for any advice pertaining to health matters.

How Can I Cure My Formula-Fed Baby's Vomiting?

1/26/2016

by Lyn Lomasi, Write W.A.V.E. Media Staff

Image © elvissa; Flickr.com

Spitting up is very common in both formula-fed and breastfed babies and is generally quite normal. When the baby starts vomiting, that is another story. If your baby is vomiting, you may be asking the question, "How can I cure my baby's vomiting?"

Baby Vomiting Warning Signs

First off, if your baby is less than 1 month old and is vomiting, you need to stop reading this for now and call the doctor right away. By vomiting, this does not mean spitting up, which is normal. This could mean spitting up more than a small amount of formula or projectile vomiting. Other warning signs include failure to gain weight, spit up that is green or brown, refusal to drink formula, acting hungrier than usual, less diaper wetting, diarrhea, and much more. Basically, look for abnormal behavior and signs of sickness.

Visiting The Doctor Is A Must

Vomiting in babies is not to be taken lightly. It can cause dehydration, loss of vital nutrients, and it could even be an indication of an infection or medical condition. The first step in curing your baby's vomiting is taking him or her to the doctor. The doctor will do tests and ask questions to determine the cause of the vomiting.

Once you have received a diagnosis, the doctor will likely give you tips and information on how to cure the baby's vomiting. Medications may also be prescribed, depending on the diagnosis. The most common cause of vomiting in babies is gastroenteritis, which is usually caused by a virus in the intestines.

General Treatments For Infants Who Are Vomiting

A baby who is vomiting needs plenty of fluids because these can be lost during vomiting. A doctor may recommend giving a very small amount of an oral electrolyte solution (such as Pedialyte) every 20 minutes until vomiting subsides. Starting with 1/2 ounce and then increasing it as baby is allowed to keep the fluids down is a common recommendation. While increasing the oral electrolyte solution, keep in mind that you should not give your baby more than he or she would normally consume in a bottle feeding at one time.

Vomiting should normally start to decrease within a few days or less. If vomiting is not decreasing, even if the baby has already seen the doctor, the doctor should be consulted right away. That statement is not meant to scare anyone. It is simply vital that parents know infant vomiting can be a serious issue, if not addressed quickly. Most cases of baby vomiting will clear up in a few days or less.

Formula intake may be reduced or halted, but should only be done under the advice of a qualified medical professional. Once baby's vomiting starts to decrease and the baby has gone without vomiting for a substantial amount of time, formula can be reintroduced into the baby's diet slowly. Start with small amounts that are fed to the baby closer together than usual. As the baby is able to hold in the formula, begin to ease back into the normal feeding pattern.

-- Note that the author is not a licensed medical professional. The above is provided for informational purposes. Always consult a licensed medical professional for any advice pertaining to health matters.

Sources:
Mayo Clinic
KidsHealth

More From Lyn:
How to Tell If Your Baby Has A Soy Allergy
5 Natural Ways To Relieve Infant Constipation
How To Help A Newborn Poop
5 Secrets To Successfully Bottle-Feeding Your Infant
Newborn Feeding Guide For New Moms

How To Tell If Your Baby Has A Soy Allergy

1/26/2016

by Lyn Lomasi, Write W.A.V.E. Media Staff

Image © iskir; Flickr.com

Oftentimes when thinking of baby formula allergies, parents may think of cow's milk baby formula. Did you know that babies can also be allergic to soy baby formula? In fact, if an infant is allergic to cow's milk, there is often an increased risk of that baby having a soy allergy as well. Perhaps my experiences with infant soy allergies can help you learn how to tell if your baby has a soy allergy.

Soy Milk vs Cow’s Milk

Information found on the KidsHealth.org website states that the American Academy of Pediatrics purports a significant amount of babies with cow's milk allergies to have soy milk allergies as well. That definitely falls in line with my experiences. The first time one of my babies experienced an allergy to cow's milk formula, soy baby formula was recommended. She turned out to be allergic to that as well. Each subsequent child with a cow's milk allergy also had an allergy to soy milk. Even though my situation dealt with soy baby formula, breastfeeding moms who consume soy should also be aware of soy allergies in babies.

Feeding Habits and Detecting a Soy Allergy

To tell if your baby has a soy allergy, pay attention to feeding habits. It is much the same as figuring out if your baby has a cow's milk allergy or is lactose intolerant. Some of the common symptoms of a soy allergy in infant can include asthma, dermatitis or eczema, diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pains, nausea, and many more. Much like any other food allergy, the symptoms may depend on the individual or the severity of the allergy. In rare, but severe cases, anaphylaxis may occur.

Remember that some of these symptoms can also indicate or other issues or may be unrelated to the baby's diet at all. The only way to tell for sure that your baby has a soy allergy is to have it diagnosed by a pediatrician. However, observing the baby's actions can help you gather information that will help tell the pediatrician if your baby has a soy allergy. Therefore, even though you cannot accurately diagnose the allergy yourself, it is still important that you keep track of baby's symptoms and habits.

Colic vs Food Allergies

In some cases, it will be easy for you to tell if your baby might have a soy allergy. The symptoms might be so obvious that you know something has to be wrong. Also keep in mind that a gassy baby or one that is frequently fussy doesn't always indicate colic, even though this is sometimes the first thought. It could actually be a food allergy, such as soy. Look for the symptoms to occur shortly after feedings. They don't always happen like that, but if symptoms are generally appearing after feedings, that can be a good indicator that you're dealing with a soy allergy.

-- Note that the author is not a licensed medical professional. The above is provided for informational purposes. Always consult a licensed medical professional for any advice pertaining to health matters.

Sources:
KidsHealth
Wholesome Baby Food
Mayo Clinic
Mayo Clinic

More from Lyn:
What NOT To Do When Bottle-Feeding An Infant
Newborn Feeding Guide for New Moms
5 Secrets To Successfully Bottle-Feeding Your Infant
5 Natural Ways to Relieve Infant Constipation
Easy Discipline Tricks For Babies: How To Discipline Your Baby

What NOT To Do When Bottle-Feeding An Infant

12/12/2015

by Lyn Lomasi, Write W.A.V.E. Media Staff

Frequent readers may recall a previous article: "5 Secrets to Successfully Feeding Your Infant." This time you can learn what NOT to do when bottle feeding a newborn. As a mother to multiple children, as well as a former nanny, I've learned a great deal about babies through experience and research. It is my hope that fellow parents and caregivers can gain from my knowledge.

Don’t Use Less Formula Than Instructed

While it may seem harmless to prepare a baby bottle with a little less formula powder or mixture than listed in the directions, it actually can be detrimental to a baby's health. This is one of the most important examples of what not to do when bottle feeding a newborn. Babies need a certain amount of nutrition to be healthy and thrive. Using less mixture can take away some of that nutrition, which can be dangerous for a newborn baby. Only use the measuring scoop that is provided with the formula and follow directions exactly. Not all scoops or formula types measure the same.

Don't Feed Too Much Before Burping Baby

It is important to pause during feedings to burp a newborn baby. Even with the best designed bottles, air bubbles can still get mixed in with the formula or breastmilk. Just the action of feeding can cause the urge to burp as well. Be sure to burp a newborn frequently during feedings, as well as afterward.

Don't Lie Baby Flat

Another example of what not to do when bottle feeding a newborn is to lie the baby flat while feeding. When a baby is lying flat, the formula or breastmilk cannot be fed properly. This can cause gas, choking, and other problems. Be sure baby's head and chest are elevated and supported during feeding.

Don't Prop Baby Bottles

Never use blankets or other items to "prop" up a newborn's bottle. A newborn should be held properly and fed by an adult to ensure that the bottle and the baby both stay in the proper position. In addition to gas and other health problems that can occur due to propping a baby bottle, a newborn needs the bonding and closeness that comes during feeding time.

Don't Place Bottles in Crib or Carrier

Just like propping a baby bottle is not safe, neither is placing the baby bottle in a crib or carrier with baby. Even if a baby can grasp a bottle, not only can a newborn not hold a bottle properly, but feeding baby in the crib can cause baby bottle tooth decay.

-- Note that the author is not a licensed medical professional. The above is provided for informational purposes. Always consult a licensed medical professional for any advice pertaining to health matters.

*I originally published this via Yahoo Contributor Network

5 Natural Ways to Relieve Infant Constipation

9/7/2014

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by Lyn Lomasi, Staff Writer

When an infant has constipation, it can cause discomfort, and sometimes pain as well. Giving a baby medications to relieve constipation may not always be a preference or a choice. I have always preferred natural relief over medication when possible, especially when it comes to infants. These all natural ways to relieve constipation that are based on my own experiences as a mother, as well as research I've done over the years.

Signs & Symptoms of Infant Constipation

Symptoms and signs of infant constipation may include crankiness, no bowel movements for hours or longer, clenching fists, or small and hard bowel movements. The type of treatment a baby is given will depend on the infant's age.

Warning About Using Corn Syrup in Young Infants

If your baby is under 2 months of age and experiencing constipation, the pediatrician should be consulted on what to do. Some have been known to use corn syrup (or Karo syrup) as an all natural treatment for infants with constipation. According to information found on theMayoClinic website, this is not recommended and may not be safe.

All Natural Ways to Relieve Infant Constipation

Water - This may seem like a logical treatment. However, since infants don't typically drink water, it may not be a first thought. As long as an infant is over 2 months of age, try 2-4 ounces of water once or twice a day somewhere between feedings. Do not replace a feeding with water.

Fruit Juice - If water does not seem to relieve infant constipation, another all natural way to try is fruit juice. Just as with the water, offer a baby over 2 months 2-4 ounces once or twice per day, in addition to regular feedings. If a baby will drink it, I've found infant prune juice to work the best.

Light Tummy Rub - Gently rubbing an infant's tummy is also an all natural way to relieve infant constipation. Even if it doesn't relieve the constipation, it may calm and soothe the baby.

Light Back Rub - If the tummy rub doesn't work, lie the baby on the stomach and gently rub the infant's back.

Baby Fruit - If a baby is old enough (at least 4 months) and accustomed to spoon feeding, you might try feeding him or her a baby fruit, such as prunes, peaches, or pears a couple times per day.

If these all natural ways to relieve infant constipation do not seem to work, it is best to contact your child's pediatrician for advice. Also, pay attention to your infant and look for other symptoms that may warrant a visit to the doctor. Some of these signs can include vomiting or crankiness that cannot be soothed.

-- Note that the author is not a licensed medical professional. The above is provided for informational purposes. Always consult a licensed medical professional for any advice pertaining to health matters.

*I originally published this content via Yahoo Contributor Network

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What I Did When My Baby Refused Spoon Feeding

9/5/2014

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by Lyn Lomasi, Staff Writer

Many babies will refuse spoon feeding at the first, second, and maybe even third try and beyond. I've gone through the spoon feeding stage with multiple children. If your baby has refused it, read on to find out what worked for me when my baby refused spoon feeding. Also, ask your child's pediatrician for advice and tips.

Try More than One Baby Food

I learned early on that when an infant refuses spoonfeeding, it isn't always the feeding that's opposed to. It could be the taste or texture of the food. Whenever my baby refused spoon feeding, I'd try more than one baby food, within reason. Remember that babies have sensitive stomachs, so try only one food at a time. Also, when baby won't eat from a spoon, it may not necessarily be the taste, but the texture, or even just the spoon action they're not used to.

TheAmerican Academy of Pediatrics recommends waiting at least 2 to 3 days in between testing foods. This is to allow baby's system to get used to each food. It also can make it easier to detect any food allergies. Infant cereals are often suggested as a first food, but fruits, vegetables, and eventually meats can be introduced as well.WholesomeBabyFood.com has instructions for preparing homemade baby foods from fresh foods.

Be Consistent

Once you make the decision to spoonfeed your baby, stick to the plan and be consistent. When my baby refused spoonfeeding, I would be consistent and attempt it at the same times twice each day. If the baby won't eat from a spoon, try again at the next scheduled time. I believe that not giving up is what helped the baby finally decide to give a try.

Don't Stress

When parents get stressed out, so do babies. If you remain calm and positive, chances are your baby will follow the lead. Whenever my baby refused spoonfeeding, I did not stress about it. I simply moved on to the next task of the moment and then followed the consistency rule and tried again at the next scheduled time.

Let Baby Watch You Eat

Babies learn from their parents and they greatly enjoy mimicking what they see. When my baby refused spoon feeding, another thing that worked is me tasting the baby food. Get out two baby spoons. Take one bite of the baby's food with your own spoon. Then, try to feed the baby his or her taste of the baby food. Sometimes seeing the parent taste the food lets the baby feel more secure with it or just causes them to mimic the act.

Make it Fun

One more method that worked for me when my baby refused spoon feeding is to make eating fun. Try giving baby colorful utensils that are easier to grip. Find ones with their favorite characters or colors. Another fun option is to use a favorite puppet or stuffed animal's hand to feed the food to the baby. There are many ways to be creative and make eating fun.

-- Note that the author is not a licensed medical professional. The above is provided for informational purposes. Always consult a licensed medical professional for any advice pertaining to health matters.

*I originally published this content via Yahoo Contributor Network

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5 Secrets to Successfully Bottle Feeding Your Infant

8/30/2014

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by Lyn Lomasi, Write W.A.V.E. Media Staff

You've made the decision to bottle feed your infant. Now you want to be sure it's successful. Whether you are using breast milk or formula, these 5 secrets to successfully bottle feeding your infant may come in handy. My experiences as a mother and former nanny, in addition to research over the years, has taught me some great lessons that I hope will help others.

Choose the Proper Nourishment
Infants have sensitive stomachs. They also each have their own specific nutritional needs. A big part of successfully bottle feeding your infant is the choice of formula. You may use breastmilk exclusively, a combination of breastmilk and formula, or formula alone. If you are choosing formula, it is important to check with the pediatrician to be sure the brand and type you choose meets the needs of your baby.

Choose the Correct Bottles
Successfully bottle feeding an infant also lies in the bottle choice. Choose a bottle design that allows for the least amount of air bubbles to flow out with formula. Too many air bubbles can cause gas. Check not only the bottle itself, but the nipples and attachments as well. If the nipples flow too quickly, that also can cause too much air to escape while baby is feeding. The best bottle systems are designed to keep out air and have choices of nipples with varying flow levels. For instance, newborns should use nipples with a slower flow. However, older babies will swallow too much air from trying too hard on a nipple with very slow flow. The flow should match the baby’s efforts and abilities.

Burp Baby Often
Even with the best bottle systems, a baby is still going to need to be burped frequently. This does not mean the bottles aren't working. It is simply a normal action that should occur during and after feeding. Successfully bottle feeding an infant is about nourishing the baby as well as making sure the baby is comfortable as possible. Relieving the baby by burping him or her is part of that. Talk with your pediatrician about proper burping techniques if you’re having difficulties with what was instructed by the medical professionals at your birthing location.

Keep Bottles at Correct Angle
There is no general angle that will apply to all bottles because there are so many different designs. However, keeping bottles at the correct angle for their design and baby’s needs will be integral to successfully bottle feeding your infant. The bottle should be held at an angle that allows the formula or breast milk to flow without any air pockets. Some bottles are designed with a tilted position that helps with this, while others are not. Follow the directions that come with the bottle, as well as instructions from the pediatrician.

Hold Infant Close and at Proper Angle
Another very important aspect of successfully bottle feeding your infant will be bonding. Be sure to hold the baby close and at an appropriate angle for feeding. Baby's head and chest should be elevated and your baby should be supported at all points. Perhaps the most common bottle feeding position is to lie baby in the lap and support his or head with one arm, holding the baby close. Use the opposite hand to feed the bottle to the baby. Ask the pediatrician to instruct you of proper feeding positions shortly after birth.

-- Note that the author is not a licensed medical professional. The above is provided for informational purposes. Always consult a licensed medical professional for any advice pertaining to health matters.

*I originally published this via Yahoo Contributor Network

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