Formula Milk and How to Bottle Feed Your Baby

Should you opt to bottle feed your baby you need to be content with your choice. Do not happen upon feelings of guilt, or consider that you are only providing your baby the second best option. These feelings only serve to take away the pleasure you should feel when feeding your baby. Savor and make the most of each feeding time by ensuring you're sitting comfortably and providing your baby with all the attention it requires.

The milk which you will feed your baby is commonly known as formula milk and is specially designed to provide all of the vitamins, nutrients and minerals your baby requires. The majority of formula milk is manufactured from cow's milk, that has been specifically treated to ensure it is easily digestible and its nutritional elements are as close to breast milk as is possible. There are a variety of brands to select from and your midwife will be able to advise you regarding the specific brands best suited to your situation.

If after birth, your baby has been diagnosed as being lactose intolerant or there is a very strong family history of susceptibility to allergies connected to cows milk, you may be best advised to utilise alternatives to ordinary formula milk. On most occasions this takes the form of a soya-based milk, but there are various other brands available. Only consider introducing a new alternatives to ordinary former milk if directed to do so by your doctor.

Bottle-feeding formula compound is in the form of powder which you make up with cooled boiled water. Follow the instructions on the tin or packet carefully and do not deviate from the prescribed measurements given these have been calculated carefully to ensure your baby obtains the correct balance of vitamins and nutrients. Do not add more powder than is necessary given to strong a mix can be harmful to your baby.

Pre-prepared former milk's are also now available in the marketplace in the form of bottles and cartons. Although more expensive than home prepared formula, it is very useful when out and about and can last unopened for several weeks.

Preparing a formula milk is a relatively simple process. Simply adhere to the instructions on the packet or tin making up sufficient amounts to last your baby 24 hours. Always use sterilised bottles teats and lids and store in your refrigerator until required. Do not reuse remnants of formula milk given it has a strong potential of being a breeding ground for bacteria. The majority of babies are more than content to drink their bottles at a room temperature however if your baby prefers warm milk, simply heat the bottle in a bottle warmer or in a bowl of hot water. Always test the temperature of the milk before giving it to your baby. Do this by sprinkling a small amount on the underside of your wrist given this is one of the most sensitive areas of your body.