Home » Misc » Feeding baby formula for the first time

Feeding baby formula for the first time


Formula Feeding FAQs: Getting Started (for Parents)

Whether you plan to formula feed your baby from the start, want to supplement your breast milk with formula, or are switching from breast milk to formula, you probably have questions.

Here are answers to some common questions about formula feeding.

What Supplies Do I Need?

Start with the basics:

  • formula
  • water (tap water is fine, but use bottled if you are concerned about water safety)
  • bottles
  • nipples

Keep burp cloths and a bottle/nipple brush handy.

You don’t need a bottle sterilizer, but do sterilize bottles and nipples by boiling them for 5 minutes before the first use.

What Kind of Bottle Should I Use?

Bottles come in different shapes and sizes. They can be made of glass, plastic, silicone, or stainless steel. Here are some differences:

Plastic bottles are now "BPA-free"— meaning they don't contain the chemical bisphenol A (BPA). This chemical may be harmful and is found in some plastics, but is banned from baby bottles. Years ago, some plastic baby bottles had BPA in them, but none do now.

Glass bottles. Glass bottles can cause injury if broken, but silicone sleeves make them easier to grip and help prevent breaks.

Silicone bottles and stainless steel bottles are newer options. They are unbreakable but tend to be more expensive than plastic or glass.

Some babies do better with certain bottle shapes, vented bottles, or bottles with liners on the inside. You may need to try a few kinds before you find what works best for you and your baby.

To get you through the first week or so, be sure to have enough formula, water, bottles, and nipples.

Over time, you may want to buy more or different kinds of bottles. You also may find it's worth getting other supplies, like a bottle drying rack or special dishwasher basket.

What Kind of Nipple Should I Use?

Nipples can be made of silicone (clear) or latex (brown) with many different shapes. The varieties include standard or traditional nipples, orthodontic nipples, wide-based nipples, and flat-top nipples. Use whatever type your baby seems to prefer.

Nipples also often come in different numbers, "stages," or "flow rates" to reflect the size of the nipple's hole, which affects the flow (i.e., slow, medium, or fast) of formula or breast milk. The holes get bigger as babies get older and are ready to handle faster flows of milk. Flows that are too fast can make younger babies gag by giving them more milk than they can handle. Slower flows may frustrate some babies and make them suck harder and gulp too much air.

Start your newborn on the slowest flow nipple. As your baby gets older, you can increase the flow if you want to. Some babies may be content throughout infancy to use the same kind and size of nipple. If your baby seems fussy or frustrated with the nipple, try a different kind (like one with a larger hole) to see if it makes a difference.

How Often Should Nipples Be Replaced?

That depends on how the nipples you use hold up to cleaning and everyday use. Check them regularly for signs of wear and replace them about every 2 months or sooner if you notice tears or damage.

What Type of Formula Should I Use?

Many different formulas are available these days. Ask your doctor which kind is best for your baby.

Do not try to make your own formula at home. Online recipes may look healthy and promise to be nutritionally complete, but they can have too little — or too much — of important nutrients and cause serious health problems for your baby.

There are many different brands of formula, and all that are made in the United States (name brands, store brands, and generic) must meet strict nutrition and safety standards.

Formula types include:

  • cow's milk-based formulas. Most formulas are made from cow's milk. These formulas have added iron, which babies need. Use only iron-fortified formula, unless your doctor advises you not to.
  • soy-based formulas. These are for babies born with congenital lactase deficiency or galactosemia. This type of formula is also used by parents who do not want their babies to eat animal protein. Give only iron-fortified soy formula, unless your doctor says otherwise. (Many babies who are allergic to cow's milk also are allergic to the protein in soy formulas, so soy-based formulas generally don't help with milk-protein allergies.)
  • hypoallergenic formulas for babies who can't tolerate cow’s milk or soy formulas, like those with allergies to milk or soy proteins. The proteins in hypoallergenic formulas are broken down so they are easier to digest.
  • specialized formulas. These are designed for premature babies.

How Do I Prepare Formula?

Formula comes in three basic forms:

  • powders that require mixing with water and cost the least
  • concentrates, which are liquids that require diluting with water
  • ready-to-use (or ready-to-feed) liquids that can be poured right into bottles. These are the most expensive but are convenient if you're traveling or can't get to a clean water supply.

Carefully follow directions on the label when preparing formula. Do not add more water than directed.

Whatever formula you choose, check the expiration date on all cans and bottles of formula, and don't use formula from leaky, dented, or otherwise damaged containers. Do not water-down formula — this is dangerous, as it reduces the amount of nutrients in each bottle.

Formula Can Be Pricey. How Can I Save Money?

Shop around for the best deals on the formula you've chosen:

  • Take advantage of the free samples and coupons sent to you in the first few months after your baby is born.
  • Clip coupons and sign up for online coupon clubs and apps that let you print and save coupons.
  • Sign up for formula companies' clubs and special programs (through the mail or online) that may offer discounts, coupons, and/or free formula and other products.
  • Compare prices on formula at online retailers. Some online stores have special "mom" clubs that let you save regularly on some products every month.
  • Check for specials at your grocery store, baby store retailer, or local wholesale/bulk items store.

What if I Need Help Paying for Formula?

If you can't afford formula, talk to your doctor or call 211 to help you find local resources. You and your family may be eligible for assistance through:

  • Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)
  • Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
  • Temporary Assistance for Needy Families

How to Introduce Formula to Breastfed Babies | Little Bundle

Making the transition from breastfeeding to formula feeding can be challenging, to say the least. A mother’s choice to breastfeed is extremely personal and can be affected by several factors. What’s most important is a happy, well-fed baby. Exclusively formula feeding or combining breastfeeding with formula feeding can often be hugely beneficial for both mothers and babies.

Here at Little Bundle, we believe it’s important that mothers realize that exclusively formula feeding (or supplementing with formula) isn’t a failure of any kind. You know what’s best for your baby, and we want you to feel confident that you’re making the right choice, whatever that choice may be. It’s also important to remember that there is no “best” formula. What works for one baby may not work for others, and that’s completely fine! If your little one is fed, loved, and happy, then you’ve made the best choice for your baby. 

The great news is that introducing formula to breastfed babies is easier than you might think. It will probably take some time, but it’s nothing that you and your baby can’t handle! Perhaps even more encouraging is the fact that there are so many wonderful formulas these days. You’re bound to find one that you and your baby loves, and you can continue to bond with your baby during feeds, while also feeling confident that you’re giving your baby the absolute best alternative to breast milk. 

If you’re planning to introduce formula, it’s always a good idea to consult with your pediatrician first about the best way to do this. Your pediatrician will be familiar with the specifics of your situation and will be best placed to advise about effective strategies that will work for your family. 

Once you’ve decided to introduce formula, either as a substitute or as a supplement to breast milk, the next step is to choose a great formula. Fortunately, there are many high-quality, wholesome, and organic formulas that will provide your baby with all of the nutrients that he or she needs. 

At Little Bundle, we want to make your formula decision as easy and stress-free as possible. We want you to have access to the best formulas available in order to give your baby the best possible start in life. We feel strongly that infant formula should be the closest thing you can get to breast milk. 

We've spoken to health experts and researched the best formulas from all around the world, and we've discovered that European brands such as Kendamil, HiPP, Holle, and Lebenswert are some of the most highly regarded formulas out there. 

We only carry a few brands because we want to make sure that we have 100% confidence in all of our products. Furthermore, we regularly review the latest research on infant nutrition in order to ensure that we are offering our customers the best baby formulas from the most reputable manufacturers.

We only stock top-quality formulas that are made from organic cow's or goat's milk, from sustainable, organic and biodynamic farms, and all of our products have been thoroughly tested to ensure optimal quality, freshness, and taste. 

None of our formulas contain processed, refined sweeteners like corn syrup, sucrose, or glucose syrup, which are unfortunately prevalent in many U. S. formulas. Our formulas never include synthetic nutrients, synthetic preservatives, or GMO ingredients. Instead, they feature natural ingredients such as organic whey, lactose, vitamins, minerals, prebiotics, and probiotics. 

It’s important to remember that there’s no one single formula that’s the “best” for all babies. Every baby is different and will have unique feeding requirements. That said, we’ve found a few of the formulas we carry to be particularly great starting points for many happy, healthy babies.

  • Holle Bio PRE is a wonderful formula to use on its own or as a supplement to breast milk. It’s widely recognized as one of the best substitutes for breast milk. Holle is one of the highest-quality baby formula brands in the world, and this formula meets the Demeter standard for organic, biodynamic farming. Holle Bio PRE has a simple list of ingredients such as biodynamic skim milk, organic whey powder, organic lactose, vitamins, and minerals. It’s completely free from chemicals, artificial preservatives, coloring and flavors, and you won’t find any starch, maltodextrin, sucrose, or corn syrup in this formula. Holle Bio PRE is unique because a significant proportion of its fat content comes from Demeter-certified milk fat, with a smaller proportion from vegetable oils. 

  • Kendamil Organic is one of the most trusted and wholesome European formulas on the market. This British family company is incredibly passionate about the quality and care of their formulas, all the way to getting milk from happy cows! Kendamil works directly with farmers taking all seasons and factors into account regarding the raw milk they use. They use a full cream milk recipe, which provides a more natural fat source of Milk Fat Globule Membrane (or MFGM), as identified in breast milk and shown to improve infants’ cognitive development. As EU Certified Organic, Kendamil contains plant-based DHA derived from algal oil, which makes it a uniquely vegetarian-friendly formula. Kendamil also contains prebiotic (GOS) and is the first-ever European organic infant formula to contain Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMOs) as a part of the prebiotic source. HMOs in breast milk play a large part in the development of a healthy gut microbiome, which in turn has been shown to reduce the risk of infection and allergy as well as support brain development. 

  • HiPP UK Stage 1 is one of the best-value European formulas on the market. It’s a nutritionally-complete formula that contains organic skim milk, organic whey, organic lactose, vegetable oils, prebiotics, essential vitamins and minerals, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, and more. It’s free from GMO ingredients, starch, refined sugars, syrup, soy, and synthetic nutrients and preservatives, and it’s certified organic to European standards. HiPP UK Stage 2 is made with the same ingredients and is designed with just the right amount of nutrients for babies six months and older.

  • HiPP Dutch Stage 1 is one of our most popular formulas. It closely resembles the UK version, but it also includes probiotics in the form of organic lactic acid cultures, which are very similar to the probiotics found in breast milk. And for babies six months and older, HiPP Dutch Stage 2 is a perfect next step which shares the same great ingredients. 

Special Feeding Conditions

If your baby has any specific feeding issues, HiPP offers a variety of specialty formulas that could really help your little one. 

  • For babies with spit-up and reflux, consider trying HiPP AR Anti-Reflux, a gentle formula that contains locust bean gum to help the formula stay down after feeding. 

  • We’ve also received lots of positive customer feedback about babies with milk protein sensitivity doing well on HiPP Germany HA Hypoallergenic, which contains extensively hydrolyzed whey proteins that are less likely to provoke an allergic response. 

  • Some parents prefer to give their baby an organic goat’s milk formula because the protein composition of goat’s milk is more similar to breast milk, and may be less likely to cause a reaction, than cow’s milk. That’s why we stock Holle Goat, which has a base of organic full cream goat’s milk and provides all of the same nutrition as Holle’s cow’s milk formulas. It also used plant-based DHA, making it a vegetarian-friendly formula option. 

If you’re still unsure about what formula to choose for your little one, check out our Baby Formula Comparison Chart to see how all of our formulas stack up against one another.

If you plan to continue breastfeeding alongside formula feeding, it’s usually recommended to wait until your baby is at least a month old before introducing formula. This will allow your milk supply to become established, so you’ll be able to continue breastfeeding even while supplementing with formula. This will also give your baby time to get used to the process of latching and suckling. 

However, many babies are formula-fed from birth, or they may need to switch to formula fairly abruptly for some reason, and that’s perfectly okay. If at all possible, make it a gradual transition, but this isn’t always an option, and your baby will be just fine when you make the switch.

If your baby is already used to feeding from a bottle…

If you’ve already been expressing breast milk and feeding your baby with a bottle, the transition to formula feeding may be fairly straightforward since your baby will be accustomed to taking a bottle.  

On the other hand, if you’re introducing formula after exclusively breastfeeding, the transition may be a little more challenging. Either way, breast milk and formula — even the highest-quality formula --  will have somewhat different tastes and textures, so it’s likely that your baby will need some time to get used to formula. Remember, take it slow and be patient…you and your baby will get there eventually!

When introducing any new formula, it’s important to factor in a transition period of up to two weeks to allow your baby’s digestive system to adjust. This is true even if you are simply moving from one stage of a particular formula to the next stage! 

Gas, constipation, and fussiness are fairly common reactions to a new formula. Because of this, we recommend introducing the new formula gradually by mixing it with the old formula (or breast milk) in the same bottle. This means completely preparing a certain amount of formula, according to the preparation instructions, and then adding it to expressed breast milk. Unfortunately, you shouldn’t just add formula powder to breast milk. 

Because it’s so important to transition gradually, we recommend following this schedule:

  • Day 7: 100% formula

If you’re going to be supplementing breast milk with formula…

There are many different ways to supplement breast milk with formula, but a reliable method is to mix expressed breast milk with prepared formula in the same bottle. As mentioned above, gradually introducing formula is key, even if you’re going to continue to give your baby some breast milk. You could start off by introducing a bottle with 25% formula, along with 75% breast milk, before moving on to half formula and half breast milk, or until you find the ratio that works for you and your baby, or that your pediatrician or lactation consultant has recommended.

There are also several other ways to supplement. Some mothers decide to alternate between formula feeds and breastfeeding. However, this doesn’t always work, as babies may not get used to the taste of formula, and could potentially reject the formula bottles. Another method is to feed with a bottle full of expressed breast milk, and then with a formula bottle after using up the breast milk, although this does require preparing two bottles! 

Some mothers prefer not to mix breast milk and formula because they don’t want to risk wasting any expressed breast milk. It’s also worth keeping in mind that prepared formula doesn’t last as long as breast milk, so you may end up discarding some breast milk if you mix it with formula but your baby doesn’t finish it all. 

Introducing formula is a big change for your baby, but what about for you? Whether you’re planning to stop breastfeeding entirely or transition to combination feeding (breastfeeding and formula feeding), you’ll want to give your body plenty of time to adjust. If possible, decreasing the number of breastfeeds by one feed a week will help your body produce less milk, while also allowing your baby plenty of time to get used to the new routine. 

It’s important to be aware that if you start combination feeding, your body will get used to producing less breast milk and it may be challenging to increase your supply after this. It’s also important to think about which feeds you want to drop, if you are going to be combination feeding, as your body will get used to producing less milk at certain times of the day or night. Continuing to breastfeed or express regularly will help keep up your milk supply, which is necessary if you are planning to continue breastfeeding or giving your baby bottles of breast milk, alongside formula. 

Giving your baby a bottle of formula or expressed breast milk is fairly straightforward, and you’ll soon get the hang of it. Here are some tips to review before you try:

  • Follow the formula preparation instructions closely, including boiling water and letting it cool for about 30 minutes, in order to kill any bacteria in the formula powder.

  • Always use a sterilized bottle with a clean nipple; a slow-flow nipple is especially useful for young babies, and those who are used to breastfeeding.

  • Keep your baby in a fairly upright position when introducing a bottle, so that they can swallow easily. Make sure to support their head.

  • To get your baby to accept a bottle, gently brush their lips with the bottle’s nipple. This will encourage them to open their mouth.

  • Make sure that the bottle is full enough so that your baby isn’t taking in air. Hold the bottle upright when feeding.

  • If the nipple goes flat during a feed, gently put your finger in your baby’s mouth so that the nipple can reinflate.

  • Your baby may need several breaks while feeding and may need to burp.

  • Make sure to remove the bottle when your baby seems to be finished.

  • Wind your baby after a feed by placing them against your shoulder and gently rubbing or patting their back.

  • Don’t worry if your baby hasn’t finished the entire bottle, or if they spit up a little after a feed.

If you’ve never given your baby a bottle before, it may take some time for your little one to adjust. This is perfectly normal and just requires some patience on your part. As you would expect, the best time to introduce a bottle for the first time is when your baby is a little bit hungry and is expecting a feed. He or she will be more likely to accept the bottle at a normal feeding time. It’s always best to introduce a bottle when your baby is in a good mood and relatively sleepy, rather than being cranky or overtired. 

Admittedly, this can be a tricky balance to strike, as you want your baby to be hungry enough to accept the bottle, but not so hungry that he or she becomes cranky! Just because babies are very hungry doesn’t mean they are going to accept a bottle. Babies may become upset if an unfamiliar feeding method is introduced when they are already irritable. 

You know your baby best, so choose a time when you think your little one will be most likely to try something new. Of course, sometimes the best-laid plans don’t work out, so don’t be discouraged if your first attempt (or first few attempts) are unsuccessful. Be patient with your baby and with yourself; you’ll find the right time eventually.

If you’re unsure about how much formula your baby should be consuming, take a look at our Baby Formula Feeding Chart. This will give you a general idea about how much and how frequently babies of different ages typically feed. Please keep in mind that every baby is different, and babies may not always feed the same amount from day to day. 

“Sneak” in Formula in the Midst of Breastfeeding

One common strategy for introducing a bottle for the first time is to switch to a bottle towards the end of a breastfeeding session. Your baby will still be hungry for more and “in the zone” of feeding, and will ideally feel calm and relaxed enough to try something new, such as a bottle containing formula. A related technique is to put some breast milk on the nipple of the bottle, so that it smells and tastes more familiar for your baby. 

If you’re not able to introduce a bottle in the midst of a breastfeeding session, and have to start the feed with a bottle, try giving your baby a bottle containing expressed breast milk. This will get them used to the feel of the bottle, while still giving them the taste they’re used to. If this isn’t possible, introducing a bottle of formula with even a small amount of breast milk on the nipple may still encourage your baby to accept the bottle as it tastes and smells more familiar. 

Involve Other Family Members and Friends

Sometimes the best strategy is actually to have the first bottle feed initiated by someone other than the baby’s mother. This may sound counterintuitive, but consider this: your baby is already attuned to the smell of breast milk, and they aren’t likely to accept a bottle if they can smell breast milk! They may get confused if their mother offers them a bottle instead of a breast. 

On the other hand, if a bottle is introduced by the baby’s father or grandmother (ie. someone familiar to the baby but who isn’t Mom!), for example, the baby may be more likely to try it, especially if they’re hungry, since there won’t be any reminder of the breast milk scent associated with their mother. This could also be a very positive experience by helping your baby to bond with other family members and getting them accustomed to being fed by various people. This will also give mothers more flexibility and maybe even some free time, rather than being responsible for all of the baby’s feeds!

Try a New Position

Another strategy that could work is to hold your baby in a slightly different position than you normally would when breastfeeding. This will help your baby to learn that bottle feeding is a different activity than breastfeeding, and may help to lessen the confusion. 

Make Bottle Feeding Just as Loving as Breastfeeding

Besides nourishing your baby, there is a huge emotional side to breastfeeding. But just because you are switching to formula, or supplementing with formula, doesn’t mean you have to give that up! Whenever possible, try to make formula feeds as much of a bonding experience as breastfeeding. This means giving your baby plenty of skin-to-skin contact with your arms or chest, making lots of eye contact, and giving them attention as they feed by singing or playing with them.  

There are so many options when it comes to baby bottles! Glass or Plastic? It seems overwhelming when you consider all the possibilities, but remember — you’ll find one that works for your baby, although it may take some trial and error. When your baby is breastfeeding, he or she is used to having to “work” for milk, rather than having the milk flow out freely, and they will be used to this. 

For this reason, it’s a good idea to find a bottle with a slow-flow nipple, which is more similar for babies to the feeling of breastfeeding. Luckily, most bottles designed for young babies come equipped with this kind of nipple. You may need to experiment with a few different bottles until you find one that your baby likes.

Don’t be discouraged if your first attempt to introduce a bottle is met with confusion or outright rejection from your baby. In fact, this is likely to happen! Just give your baby time to get used to the feel and smell of the bottle. If you keep at it, even if it takes several attempts, you’ll find that your baby will be happy to take a bottle before too long.  

You may need to time this just right, so that they are hungry and ready to feed but not grumpy or overtired. It may also be necessary to play around with the temperature of the formula or the consistency, in order to find the optimal feeding conditions for your little one. Some babies are fine with room temperature formula, whereas some really like to have a warm bottle (but remember, never heat up formula in the microwave as it may heat unevenly and cause scalding)! Keep trying some of the strategies mentioned here, such as introducing the bottle with some breast milk on the nipple, or giving your baby a bottle before completely finishing a breastfeeding session. 

Although they are different from breast milk and may take some time to get accustomed to, the formulas recommended here are all tasty and appealing to babies, having been made with high-quality, wholesome, organic ingredients and no artificial additives or chemicals. Sooner or later, your baby will get used to the feel of the bottle and the taste of formula, and will soon be looking forward to bottle feeds with their mother, father, favorite relative, or family friend.

Remember, your baby will continue to thrive after making the switch to formula. Undoubtedly, the most important thing you can give your baby is love and attention, and by providing them with a high-quality organic formula like Kendamil, HiPP, Holle, or Lebenswert, you will be able to do that while also ensuring that they get the absolute best breast milk substitute available.

We're here to help

Still feeling a little unsure? Our team of Certified Infant Feeding Technicians is here to help! Use our live chat, or send us a message. Our top priority is to help you provide the best nutrition for your little one.

Rules for the introduction of complementary foods for a child 4 - 12 months: the first complementary foods, menus, diagrams, tables, principles of nutrition for a baby

Modern principles of complementary foods for children is a kind of fusion of practical experience and the latest scientific developments. They are based on the recommendations of the European Association of Pediatric Gastroenterologists, Hepatologists, Nutritionists ESPGHAN , the American Academy of Pediatrics AAP and national recommendations of relevant ministries and associations.

Complementary foods: online course

Modern recommendations are based on the analysis of the results of many studies on the composition, timing of the introduction of complementary foods in Europe for healthy full-term newborns, taking into account various aspects of the introduction of complementary foods, its impact on physical and mental development. Timely introduction of complementary foods contributes to the optimal development of all systems and organs of the child, physical parameters, psychomotor development, and the activity of the nervous system. The period of introduction of complementary foods is very important for the growth and development of the child, as well as an outstanding stage in the transition of the child from breastfeeding to feeding from the general table.

  • It is inappropriate to develop separate recommendations for the introduction of complementary foods for breastfed or artificially fed children, the approaches in these cases are the same
  • Breastmilk mothers remains the gold standard exclusive breastfeeding for at least 4 months (17 weeks) of an infant's life, up to 6 months (26 weeks), the standard of exclusive or predominant breastfeeding
  • The digestive tract and kidney function are mature enough for a baby to accept complementary foods at 4 months of age, and between 5 and 6 months the baby develops the necessary motor skills to consume solid foods. Therefore, at this age, it is important to give food of the right consistency and in the right way
  • A well-nourished mother can provide all the nutrients, vitamins, and minerals her baby needs through exclusive breastfeeding up to a maximum of 6 months of age
  • Some children may need iron supplementation earlier than 6 months
  • It is important to continue breastfeeding in parallel with the introduction of complementary foods. This has been shown to reduce the risk of gastrointestinal and respiratory infections, as well as hospitalizations in a child
  • Comparing the initiation of complementary foods at 4 or 6 months of age, no significant differences were found in the effect on growth and body weight, the development of obesity during the first 3 years of life
  • At the same time, a high risk of developing overweight and obesity has been established with the introduction of complementary foods before 4 months of age
  • Complementary foods (solid or liquid food other than breast milk or infant formula) should be started no earlier than 4 months and no later than 6 months
  • With age, with the introduction of complementary foods, the child should be offered food varied in texture, texture, taste, smell
  • Children have an innate tendency to distinguish and prefer sweet and salty foods, reluctantly eat bitter, which we cannot change. But we can shape and adjust the taste preferences of the child through training, systematically offering the child foods with different tastes, including sour, bitter green vegetables
  • Whole cow's milk Not recommended for infants under 12 months of age. The use of cow's milk is associated with the intake of an increased amount of energy, protein, fat, and lower - iron. Therefore, children who consumed large amounts of cow's milk at an early age had a higher risk of developing iron deficiency anemia
  • Eating more protein when complementary foods increase the risk of overweight and obesity, especially in individuals with a predisposition to this, so protein intake should not exceed 15% of energy intake during the day
  • The baby's need for iron is very high during the entire period of complementary feeding, so it is necessary to ensure the provision of iron-rich foods, especially for breast-fed children
  • Allergenic products can be administered from the age of 4 months at any time, since it is during this period that the formation of immune tolerance to the allergen occurs. For example, children at high risk of developing allergic reactions to peanuts should be administered at 4-12 months of age under specialist supervision. No relationship was found between the timing of the introduction of allergenic complementary foods and the development of allergic or immunological diseases. However, this does not mean the need for early introduction of allergenic products to everyone, but it emphasizes that there is no need to postpone the introduction of allergenic products after 4 months for a longer period;
  • Gluten may be offered to a child aged 4-12 months, however large amounts of gluten should be avoided during the first weeks after initiation of its introduction, thereafter a safe amount has not been established. The type of feeding (breast/artificial) was not identified with the introduction of gluten to reduce the risk of developing celiac disease, type 1 diabetes;
  • Sugar or salt should not be added to complementary foods, and sweetened drinks and juices should be avoided. Sugary drinks are liked by babies in the first months, but if they are not given, but after 6 months, the children no longer like them very much. Sugar affects future eating behavior. Sugar is an important factor in the development of caries - it contributes to caries, as glucans can be formed, which increase the adhesion of bacteria to tooth enamel, disrupt the diffusion balance of acid and buffer systems, which ultimately contributes to damage to the enamel.
  • Vegetarian diets are contraindicated in young children due to the risk of vitamin B12, iron, zinc, folate, long-chain fatty acid, protein and calcium deficiencies, which can lead to irreversible adverse effects and impaired cognitive development;
  • Vegetarian diet can only be used under the close supervision of a doctor and nutritionist, with the obligatory additional administration of vitamins B, D, iron, zinc, calcium, proteins, PUFAs, which can ensure the appropriate growth and development of the child. It is important that parents should be aware of the risk of irreversible harmful consequences (mental disability, death of the child) that may develop if they do not follow the recommendations of specialists.

The General Rules for the introduction of complementary foods for children of the first year of life:

  • Introduce the first feeding It is better in the morning feeding 9-11 in the morning to trace the reaction of the child to the new product.
  • Without added sugar and salt .
  • Give the first complementary food to the child when he is calm and not tired .
  • Start with 0.5-2 teaspoons. If the child refuses, do not insist, try to give later or the next day.
  • If the reaction is normal - no rash, no skin changes, no stool changes, double the dose the next day. Gradually bring the first complementary foods of the child to the age norm 80-200 g
  • If there is an allergic reaction or other intolerance reaction - refuse to introduce this complementary food for three days, if the adverse reaction occurs again - do not give this product, contact your pediatrician.
  • Each subsequent new complementary food must be one-component only: marrow, cabbage, broccoli, buckwheat, meat, etc.
  • Mixed food dish give when the child has already become acquainted with all the products separately.
  • It is not advisable to introduce new foods three days before and after vaccinations.

If you are thinking about introducing complementary foods, then your child should already have certain signs of readiness for this:
  1. Holds head
  2. Able to stand alone, practically without support, sit on a special high chair with side support
  3. Opens mouth when a spoonful of food is brought
  4. Turns away from a spoonful of food when not hungry
  5. Closes mouth with spoon in mouth holds food in mouth and then swallows rather than pushing or spitting it out

The first complementary foods at 4 months

The age of 4 months as the minimum for the introduction of complementary foods was also chosen because at 4 months the child's gastrointestinal tract becomes more mature: the initially increased permeability of the small intestine mucosa decreases, the number of digestive enzymes, a sufficient level of local immunity is formed, the child acquires the ability to swallow semi-liquid and thicker food, associated with the extinction of the “spoon ejection reflex”.

Therefore, to the question whether it is necessary to give complementary foods to a 3-month-old baby , one can unequivocally answer: no, it's too early!

But 4 months, this is the time when you can think about the introduction of complementary foods. At the same time, it should be remembered that at the age of 4 months, the child has enough mother's milk or a highly adapted milk formula for its full development. In addition, when they talk about complementary foods at 4 months, they usually mean the end of the 4th month of life. It is important to continue breastfeeding in parallel with the introduction of complementary foods.

Video: Body in 4 months

If you introduce complementary foods at the 4th month of the child -usually one-component vegetable or fruit puree if the child does not gain weight well enough well , then it can be gluten-free porridges: rice and buckwheat . It is better to start with vegetable puree. Kids are smart and if he tries a sweeter fruit puree, he can refuse vegetable puree for quite some time and you may have difficulty introducing this very healthy dish.

What is useful in vegetable supplements and what is the best way to prepare it?

Vegetable puree - for the first feeding can be prepared from cauliflower, zucchini, pumpkin, broccoli - these are low-allergenic foods, are among the ten most useful vegetables in the diet of children, contain a large amount of healthy proteins, fiber and vitamins, microelements ! Fiber helps move food through the digestive tract and promote beneficial microflora in the gut. Pectins absorb and remove toxins from the baby's body. Vegetables have a positive effect on the acid-base balance of the body, creating conditions for the proper functioning of all organs and systems.

Cauliflower - is a good source of fiber, protein, minerals and vitamins: A, B1, B2, B3 (PP), B6, as well as a small amount of vitamins K, D and tocopherol (vitamin E). In the inflorescences of cabbage there is a lot of magnesium, sodium, potassium, phosphorus, calcium, iron. It contains twice as much iron as green peas, peppers and lettuce. Cauliflower protein is easily digestible and its content is quite high. Cauliflower protein contains essential vitamin U (methionine). It is one of the essential amino acids that cannot be synthesized by the human body. Other essential amino acids are also present in a small amount: arginine, tryptophan.

Zucchini - rich in vitamins and microelements. It contains potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, calcium, vitamins C, B1 and B2 and others, folic acid. Which plays an important role in the processes of hematopoiesis. Zucchini is rich in such important trace elements as iron and copper. They are necessary for the formation of nervous tissue, normalization of metabolism, as well as for the formation of hemoglobin, which is a good prevention of anemia.

Broccoli is a very healthy vegetable that is a type of cauliflower. Pleasant soft taste and good digestibility of the product, unique composition have a beneficial effect on the health of both adults and children. Eat unopened cabbage inflorescences. This is also a low-allergenic vegetable, rich in protein, fiber, vitamins, calcium, iron, trace elements and even phytoncides. The content of calcium and magnesium is sufficient to balance the functioning of the nervous system, ensure the normal regulation of the child's sleep and wake cycle, and good stress resistance. A child with such nutrition becomes calmer, less excited and naughty.

Broccoli is the leader in choline and methionine content. Only 50 g of broccoli provides the baby with a full set of nutrients for a day.

Pumpkin - the largest vegetable on Earth. It is one of the ten most useful vegetables in the diet of children, contains a large amount of useful proteins, fiber and vitamins, including beta-carotene, vitamin C, E, K, iron, potassium, magnesium, trace elements that are indispensable for children's nutrition, as they strengthen immunity and help fight inflammation, have a beneficial effect on the nervous system. By the content of carotene, pumpkin exceeds carrots by 5 times.

Vitamins and microelements contained in pumpkin help the child grow, provide healthy sleep, are responsible for the condition of the skin and eyes, improve metabolic processes, and accelerate the removal of harmful substances from the child's body. Due to its beneficial qualities, pumpkin can be one of the first types of complementary foods for an infant.

All vegetable purees have a specific vegetable smell, this is absolutely normal

0006

Introduction of vegetable puree

Vegetables should be introduced into the child's menu gradually. Start giving each new vegetable in the form of a monocomponent puree in the amount of ½ teaspoon, preferably at breakfast, so you can track the manifestations of food allergies or intolerance reactions to this product. If all is well, then the next day, offer him a teaspoon. So gradually you need to bring the portion to 50-100 grams. A serving of vegetable puree per day for an 8-month-old baby is approximately 80 grams. In a year, you can increase up to 150 grams. The next product can be administered no earlier than 4-5 days later. If a child has skin rashes, his stool has changed, then you need to remove the product from the diet and consult a pediatrician.

If the child does not like the dish, for example, broccoli, do not give up and continue to offer this vegetable in small quantities - 1-2 spoons a day, maybe not even once, but 2-3 times before meals, and after 7 - 10, and sometimes 15 days, the baby will get used to the new taste. This diversifies the diet, will help form the right taste habits in the child.

Fruit puree introduction

Fruit puree is a definite alternative and addition to vegetables. It can be made from apples, bananas - by the way, do you know what a berry is?, sweet varieties of pears. These fruits contain substances useful for babies, vitamins and minerals, including iron, which is extremely necessary for children. Prune puree is somewhat separate, it has a good effect on the baby's digestion, especially with a tendency to constipation, and, of course, also contains many useful substances.

Porridges in the nutrition of a child in the first year of life.

Porridge can be introduced into the baby's diet at the end of 4 months or at the fifth, sixth month of life. As a rule, they go as a second food after vegetable or fruit puree. But if your child is not gaining weight very well, or you have been feeding your child with breast milk or infant formula until almost the end of 6 months, then complementary foods can be started with the introduction of cereals.

It is important to start with one-component, low-allergenic cereals which does not contain gluten : this is buckwheat, rice, corn porridge .

gluten-containing cereals include: wheat, oats, rye, barley, millet .

According to modern data , the period of introduction of gluten into the child's diet is not of fundamental importance, but the latest recommendations draw attention to the fact that its amount in the baby's diet should not be large. Therefore, it is better to add semolina and oatmeal to other porridge in a limited amount, and not to give it on its own. No relationship was found between the timing of the start of complementary foods that contain gluten and the development of celiac disease in a child. If your child hasn't tried porridge yet, start with a dairy-free, gluten-free, one-ingredient buckwheat or rice porridge.

Rice - very useful for growing baby. It has a low content of vegetable proteins, therefore it is easily digested and is especially useful for toddlers with unstable stools. Rice has a high nutritional value and, to a certain extent, protects the delicate intestines of the baby due to its enveloping effect. This is a hearty and nutritious dish with a good content of carbohydrates and proteins, potassium and magnesium, calcium and phosphorus, beneficial amino acids and vitamins. It replenishes energy costs, energizes and gives strength. Rice is not recommended for overweight children and those who suffer from severe constipation.

Gluten-free buckwheat porridge - very nutritious and rich in iron, fiber, rich in various vitamins and microelements. This is also a good option for starting a child's acquaintance with adult food. These porridges can be prepared with water, breast milk, milk formula, which your child is used to. No need to add salt and sugar.

Rules for introducing porridge into baby food

If the child already eats porridge from 5 months, then at 6 months you can offer a more complex porridge - for example, rice porridge with apricot or raspberries, rice porridge with banana (this is very successful a combination both in taste and in its properties) or even more complex porridge - corn-rice with banana.

Over time, you can start adding apple, banana, pear, plum and prunes, apricot and dried apricots, broccoli, carrots, berries to porridge, , provided that the child is not allergic to them.

The rules for introducing cereals are the same as for vegetable puree. In order for the child to get used to the new product and its consistency more easily, first prepare 5% porridge (5 g of cereal per 100 g of water), if you make it yourself. Porridge is usually cooked with water, but can be made with breast milk, infant formula. First, give the baby one teaspoon, then, within 7-10 days, bring the volume of porridge of the same percentage to the full volume of feeding (150 g). If all this time the porridge is well tolerated, i.e. there are no skin rashes, the child has stable stools, they switch to a gradual (starting from 20-30 g) introduction of porridge of the same cereal, but already at a 10% concentration (10 g of cereal per 100 g of water). In other words, a thicker porridge is administered no earlier than 7-10 days from the beginning of the introduction of porridge. The complete introduction of 10% porridge to the baby is also carried out in 7-10 days. The third week falls on the complete addiction of the child to a new dish. Only after that you can introduce a new cereal (in the form of 10% porridge) or the next complementary foods.

Video: feeding porridge

You need to give porridge from a spoon, better in the morning for breakfast. After porridge at the stage of its introduction, the child should be offered breast or milk formula. With artificial feeding, the volume of the mixture after a portion of porridge should be such that, together with porridge, it is 200 ml with five meals a day.

Norms for the introduction of cereals

In the future, the volume of the portion of porridge gradually increases, amounting to:

  • 7-8 months - 160-170 ml
  • 8-9 months - 170-180 ml
  • 9-12 months - up to 200 ml (there is a complete replacement of one feeding of the child with complementary foods. )

Cereal schedule

  • Day 1 – 1 teaspoon (5 g)
  • Day 2 - 2 teaspoons (10 g)
  • Day 3 - 3 teaspoons (15 g)
  • Day 4 - 4 teaspoons (20 g)
  • Day 5 - 50 ml (50 g)
  • Day 6 - 100 ml (100 g)
  • Day 7 - 150 ml (150 g)

Meat complementary foods - the rules for introducing meat into the child's diet

Meat is usually the third, very important product of complementary foods, after vegetables and cereals. The meat contains amino acids, complete animal protein, B vitamins (B1, B2, B6 and B12), heme iron, potassium, calcium, zinc, phosphorus, which are necessary for the growth and development of the child. It is very important to understand that mashed meat contains iron, which is easily absorbed. And the addition of meat to vegetables improves the absorption of iron from them, from vegetables.

Iron deficiency can seriously affect the intellectual development of a child, his immunity, hematopoiesis. Since your task is to raise a healthy and intelligent child, meat complementary foods must be introduced without fail and in a timely manner.

Heme iron - found in meat products and easily digestible (red meat-veal, liver), absorption is about 25%.

Non-heme iron - found in plant foods (beans, beans, lentils, peas, nuts, tomatoes, cauliflower, green leafy vegetables, apples, dried fruits, but it is absorbed much worse from plants - only 3-5% Iron absorption from other animal products (eggs, fish) is 10-15%.0013

It is important to know that human milk enhances , while cow's milk reduces iron absorption .

Timing of the introduction of meat complementary foods

It is advisable to introduce meat puree to a child aged 6-8 months . This, to some extent, depends on when cereals and vegetable/fruit purees were introduced. if your baby has been eating vegetables and cereals since 4 months, meat can be introduced at 6 months. From 7 months it can be administered if the child is not gaining weight. From 8 months to children who started complementary foods at 6 months.

For children at risk for the development of anemia, an earlier introduction of meat at the age of 5 - 6 months is recommended.

It has been proven that only daily use of children's enriched porridge and meat puree can fully meet the needs of children in iron, zinc and other micronutrients.

You can start meat complementary foods with lean beef, veal , but better with less allergenic poultry meat ( turkey, chicken ), or rabbit, these are the most easily digestible meats.

Goose and pork are fatty for the baby, and the meat of duck and other birds of the reservoirs is also not suitable for the first feeding. They are recommended to give only after 3 years;

Horse Meat is perfect for your little one. The product is rich in carbohydrates and proteins, but it is almost impossible to find horse meat for sale.

Meat should be introduced into the child's diet gradually, at lunchtime, first a quarter of a teaspoon and, gradually adding, bring it up to the daily norm: At 8 months, about 50 g, at 9months-60-70 g.

Video: Power feeding meat

Scheme for the introduction of puree

  • 1 day ¼ of the vegetables
  • Day 2 - ½ teaspoon
  • Day 3 - 1 teaspoon
  • Day 4 - 2 teaspoons
  • Day 5 - 3 teaspoons
  • Day 6 3-4 teaspoons + vegetables

At first, it is better to give meat with vegetable puree, which the child has already eaten, so that he adapts better to the new product, and iron is better absorbed. Children at the end of the first year of life can already be given 3 varieties of mashed meat.

Baby menu at 7-8 months

At 7-8 months you can start giving children 0 baby cottage cheese 9000 Start with 1/2 teaspoon. Within a month, the daily volume of cottage cheese consumption by a baby can be increased to 30-40 g. In addition, a child of 8 months is recommended to give sour-milk infant formula. But ordinary yogurt from the store should not be given. At this age, the child should receive 5 g of butter and 5 g (1 teaspoon) of vegetable oil, ¼- yolk - 2-3 times a week.

Baby's menu at 9 months

At the age of 9 months Your baby is already familiar at this age already usually familiar: , egg yolk . You may have already met meat . Therefore, at this age, they usually give already more complex purees and porridges, less homogenized, of various tastes , gradually preparing him for adult nutrition, increasing the variety and quantity of complementary foods. It is desirable to feed the baby at the table with other family members, he must see how his parents eat with pleasure, he learns from them. The amount of food offered should be based on the principles of actively encouraging the baby to eat, it is necessary to continue to gradually change the consistency and increase the variety of complementary foods, adhering to the recommended frequency of introducing complementary foods.
At this age, the child usually gets complementary foods 3 times a day . His diet depends on the age of the start of complementary foods. If the baby began to give new food at 4-5 months, the list of allowed foods will be much wider than if this happened at 6-7 months. Therefore, all this is very individual, there are no absolutely rigid frameworks and recommendations. On the Internet you will find a lot of different advice on baby food, if you are not sure about something, it is better to consult your pediatrician.


From vegetables the baby can be given what he ate before, mixing them: pumpkin, zucchini, cauliflower, broccoli, carrots and others, adding 1 tsp. vegetable oil . If the baby does not have skin reactions, then you can give beets . It is also possible to give two-, three-component vegetable purees and soups , but only on condition that he is already familiar with these products and he has not had a reaction to them.
If you have introduced complementary foods, then you need to remember that water is an important part of baby food. You can use purified water or special water for children .
In addition, at 9 months you can give special baby wheat cookies , which the baby will be happy to eat on his own as an adult, white wheat bread, this improves hand motility, improves eating skills, but at the same time he must be supervised.
At this age, you can start giving fish puree from low-fat varieties: river perch, pollock, hake, haddock, zander, pollack - start with ½ teaspoon, bringing up to 40-50 g , watching the reaction of the child , give at lunchtime instead of mashed meat, 1-2 times a week. But a number of pediatricians do not advise giving it up to a year, it is a useful, but highly allergenic product.

Baby menu at 10 months

B 10 months usually 2 times a day the child receives the mother's breast or special milk formulas . Various cereals: buckwheat, rice, corn, oatmeal, wheat, semolina porridge . add 5-10 g of butter to cereals. At this age, it is already possible to make complex cereals from 2-3 cereals with which the child is familiar, add various fruits, vegetables: apple, banana, pear, plum and prunes, apricot and dried apricots, broccoli, carrots, berries , provided that the child is not allergic to them, or use ready-made cereals with fruit.


From vegetables the baby can be given what he ate earlier, mixing them: pumpkin, zucchini, cauliflower, broccoli, carrots, beets and others, adding 1 tsp. vegetable oil . It is also already possible to give two-, three-component vegetable purees and soups, but only on condition that he is already familiar with these products and he did not have a reaction to them.
At this age, the baby already usually eats about 40-50 g of baby meat puree from chicken, turkey, rabbit , with good tolerance to cow's milk proteins from veal or beef. If he has been eating meat for a month or more, you can start giving him two-component meat purees , for example from chicken and turkey.
At this age, fish puree from low-fat varieties is usually started: river perch, pollock, hake, haddock, pike perch, pollock with ½ teaspoon, bringing up to 40-50 g, following the reaction of the child, it is better to give at lunchtime instead of mashed meat, 1-2 times a week .
At 10 months, children's cottage cheese should be given 2 times a week. Start with 1/2 teaspoon if you have not given it before, the daily amount of cottage cheese at this age is 40-50 g .
It is recommended to give special sour-milk baby formulas.
At this age, a child can receive 5-10 g of butter and 5 g (1 teaspoon) of vegetable oil, and 2-3 times a week½ - yolk .

Child's menu at 1 year old

The child is one year old. He has already grown up, he already has 6-10 teeth, with which he gnaws everything he sees, he is interested in chewing food, his digestive enzymes already work well and he has already become acquainted with various products: vegetable and fruit purees, various cereal cereals, meat and fish, sour-milk mixtures. In fact, he is already prepared for the transition to a more adult diet. In a year, changing the diet involves turning to new products and gradually changing the way they are prepared and the degree of grinding.
You need to eat 5 times a day with an interval 3.5-4 hours .
semi-liquid dishes should still remain the basis of nutrition, but not only mashed dishes, but also containing small pieces of food . Too dry food should not be given to the baby yet, as he may have difficulty swallowing.


In the year the child already tries to eat with his hands and he should be encouraged to do so. Finely chopped, soft foods can be given eg: small pieces of soft fruit, vegetables, cheese, well-cooked meat, pasta , etc. and foods that dissolve quickly, children's biscuits, children's crispbread - as food with the help of hands.
It is necessary to avoid products that can enter the respiratory tract and cause asphyxia - sausages and other hard meat products , nuts (especially peanuts), grapes, raisins, raw carrots, popcorn, round candies . Hold off on this for now.
In a year, part of the children are without mother's milk. But if your baby is still not weaned - do not rush, if possible, give him a breast before bed at night. You can also breastfeed between main meals. At this age, the child receives all the main vitamins and minerals from food, but he can get a number of biologically active components from breast milk.

Dairy products

Dairy products still occupy an important place in the child's diet, it is a source of calcium, B vitamins, protein, milk sugar and fat. It is better to use special baby milk (marked with a triple on the packaging), baby fermented milk products: kefir, yogurt in total 500-600 ml per day .

Cottage cheese

The child should be given cottage cheese. The daily dose of cottage cheese after 1 year can be increased up to 70 g per day . It can be given pureed or combined with fruit puree, pudding, casserole. This contributes to the development of chewing skills.

Butter
Butter can be added to cereals or smeared on wheat bread, cookies in a dose of up to 12 g per day.

Low fat sour cream and cream
After 1 year, you can give low-fat sour cream and cream in small quantities.

Vegetables
Every year a child must be given various vegetables , it is good to combine them with protein products, meat . The vegetable diet can now be diversified with green peas, tomatoes, turnips, beets, carrots, spinach in the form of mashed potatoes. Legumes are still better not to give.

Fruits and berries
After 1 year, you can gradually introduce the baby to new fruits and berries: strawberries, cherries, cherries, kiwi, currants, gooseberries, chokeberries, sea buckthorn, raspberries, blackberries, cranberries, blueberries, lingonberries and even citrus fruits . But do it gradually, watching the reaction of the child. Berries with a dense peel (gooseberries) are best mashed, while soft juicy fruits (peaches, strawberries, apricots, kiwi) can be offered to the baby in pieces.
Daily dose of fruits - approx.

Meat products

Meat products can be given in the form of steam cutlets, meatballs, meatballs, meat soufflé and pudding in an amount up to 100 g daily - beef, veal, lean pork, rabbit, turkey, chicken.

Fish

Fish can be given once or twice a week for 30-40 g per meal as a substitute for meat dishes

Eggs
Chicken, quail eggs give boiled or in the form of omelets in milk, you can try with vegetables.

Kashi
Porridge can be cooked from rice, oatmeal, buckwheat, corn, millet, semolina. At this age, they should still have a uniform consistency, so it will be easier for him to swallow. You can use ready-made industrial, children's instant cereals, for example, various multi-cereal cereals, in which fruits, crackers, cereals have already been added. Give 1 time per day.

Water
Be sure to give the child clean water to drink, better bottled water for children, as much as he wants . In addition to her baby can drink vegetable and fruit juices, dairy products, compotes, weak tea.

No need to give:

no need to give confectionery and sweets to a child 0005 . From sweets at this age, you can sometimes give marmalade, dried fruits and cookies.
Do not give sausages and sausages , they are rarely prepared from high quality meats and are rich in various food additives

Calorie content and volume

0003 1200 ml .

Table for complementary foods by month: Download

All videos: Putting a child for a child from 4 to 12 months

9000 Let your children be healthy and successful!

Other news in category

Newborn - online course "Mom's Way: Newborn" from Professor Nyankovsky on caring for a baby in the first months of life

Baby's first litter. Porridge or vegetable puree?

How to properly combine complementary foods and formula

— Anastasia Anatolyevna, is it possible to feed a child with formula and complementary foods at the same time?

— From birth, every baby is breastfed and/or bottle fed. Regardless of the type of feeding, in the period from 4 to 7 months, babies begin to learn new types of food that supplement breast milk and milk formula. And it is important for parents to get acquainted with some principles of adding complementary foods in order to help their baby adapt to new conditions.

  1. Add complementary foods gradually: first with one ingredient, then with 2 or 3.
  2. Increase the serving slowly: start with no more than one teaspoon and work up to the desired volume within a week.
  3. Do not give two or three products at the same time if you are introducing them for the first time, because you need to understand how the child will react to them separately.
  4. Control food density: start with homogeneous semi-liquid purees and cereals. Then smoothly move on to thicker foods, then to pureed and chopped food with soft pieces.
  5. Avoid complementary foods if the child is sick and before and immediately after vaccination.

- Are there any differences in feeding infants receiving formula?

— Against the background of the formula, the baby is fed in the same way as when breastfeeding. But if the periods of introduction of the mixture and complementary foods coincide, then first let the child try the mixture and get used to it. At the time of adaptation to the mixture, complementary foods are not given.

— Are complementary foods given before or after formula?

— If the baby's habituation to the mixture went smoothly, you can start feeding him, following all the rules. Supplementary food is offered with a spoon before the bottle is given. If the baby does not eat formula after complementary foods, you can increase the interval between these feedings. How to supplement the mixture after complementary foods and calculate its volume, the doctor will tell the child. When the amount of complementary foods reaches the daily age norm, they are first replaced with one, then two and three milk meals. At night, for a half-asleep child, a mixture is preferable in consistency.

An important criterion for choosing the right mixture is its good tolerance by the baby: he has an adequate weight gain, no skin rash, persistent intestinal colic, regurgitation, constipation or loose frequent stools are excluded. A greenish stool in the absence of mucus and in the case of its normal consistency for a particular child is considered a variant of the norm, and the mixture in this case is not changed.

— Can the combination of formula and complementary foods cause indigestion?

- Problems will arise, for example, if the timing of the introduction of complementary foods is violated, portions exceed the amount of age, or an adapted formula is introduced prematurely. Children with food allergies are at risk, therefore, when introducing any new product, identified allergens are taken into account.

If the baby does not digest or tolerate food, the mother will immediately notice this by adverse reactions to the product - rashes on the body, reddened cheeks, poor weight gain, changes in the color and smell of the stool.

— What foods should I start feeding my formula-fed baby with?

- Products are added sequentially. They start with baby purees from one vegetable or baby cereals from one type of grain without gluten, and after getting used to them, they move on to multicomponent and combined products. Fruits will be the third group: they are sweetish, and if given first, the child may then refuse food with a neutral taste.


What complementary foods to give

  • The first group is baby cereals (not made with milk).
  • The second group is children's vegetable purees.
  • The third group - children's fruit purees, including mixed or combined with cottage cheese, other products.
  • Cereal products - if the baby has prerequisites for the development of anemia, unstable stools, slight weight gain are noted.
  • Vegetable products - if the child is prone to constipation, and his mother and doctor are worried about his too rapid weight gain.

It is desirable to give commercially produced baby food as the first complementary food to ensure complete feeding - it is of high quality raw materials, balanced composition and grinding, which corresponds to the nutritional needs and eating habits in infancy. MAMAKO ® has a tasty and healthy combination of cereals, natural goat milk, vitamins and minerals.

Examples of such products are gluten-free corn milk porridge; buckwheat milk porridge; rice milk porridge. In total, there are ten flavors in the assortment for a varied grain menu for different ages:

  • low allergenic gluten-free food for the first acquaintance with cereals,
  • Whole Grain Multigrain Cereals for Diet Diversity,
  • combined cereals with fruit, vegetable, berry additives.

— What should mothers look for when preparing a diet of homemade meals?

— If the mother nevertheless decided to cook at home, then you need to take into account both the quality of the raw materials and the method of preparation:

  • One type of green vegetable is taken. It is preferable to cook for a couple, it is better to grind the product hot to the desired consistency.
  • For the first porridge, choose a gluten-free cereal, such as rice. The cereal can be pre-soaked in water for an hour and a half, then it is washed, boiled without salt, crushed with a blender.
  • Fruits are thoroughly washed, peeled, chopped with a blender.

— From your point of view, is early feeding justified or, on the contrary, is it postponed because of the child's refusals?

- To find the right time for solid meals, you should consult a pediatrician who knows the general condition and individual characteristics of a particular child. According to pediatric recommendations, children begin to add complementary foods between 4 and 6.5 months after birth and the start of formula feeding.

  • Up to four months: the natural reflexes to accept and assimilate solid food are still asleep, and the gastrointestinal tract is not ready for such food.
  • After six months: there is a decline in food interest and a lag in the development of chewing and swallowing skills.
  • After seven months: Delayed start of complementary foods causes more allergies, some mineral and vitamin deficiencies.

If the child is not psychologically ready for complementary foods, refusals and whims are possible. Tip - try not to insist, but to arouse interest in food: during the day, often offer an unfamiliar product from a beautiful baby spoon in very small quantities. The child will gradually begin to get used to new tastes and textures - he will no longer move the spoon away with his hand, turn his head away and fall in love with cereals and mashed potatoes.

Industrial complementary foods should not contain additives that can provoke allergies. These are fruit juices, natural aggressive preservatives - currant or orange, dyes, starch and other substances.

When first complementary foods are introduced, formula is still the main infant food, so complementary foods are offered prior to formula feeding and not to a full baby. Try to give complementary foods every day and increase its portion gradually so as not to frighten the baby with a large amount of unfamiliar food and not provoke digestive problems.

Learn more