All Things Breastfeeding Episode 82: All About Formula Feeding

Lots and lots of families are using formula to feed their babies, either partially or fully, short-term or long-term. But there’s not a lot of info shared with parents on how to feed formula in the healthiest way. In today’s episode, we share some guidelines and ideas on bottle feeding techniques, appropriate amounts based on age and baby’s size, preparing formula bottles, and more. We also discuss the emotions that can come with needing to use formula, especially for families that didn’t plan to or want to. And, we absolutely support families who plan to use formula from the start, or decide to transition to it at any point! There are so many ways feeding journeys can look. We hope this helps answer some questions or gives ideas on how to feed with formula. 

Links and resources mentioned:

• Paced bottle feeding videos on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@breastfeedingcenterofannar1863

• Amounts: https://kellymom.com/bf/pumpingmoms/pumping/milkcalc/ (Especially see image for baby’s stomach size over first week, and then calculator for after that. Feed sizes apply for both breastmilk and formula. Also: https://kellymom.com/pregnancy/bf-prep/bfcostbenefits/#table2 

• Formula preparation: https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/infant-and-toddler-health/in-depth/infant-formula/art-20045791

• CDC recommendations on formula preparation: https://www.cdc.gov/nutrition/infantandtoddlernutrition/formula-feeding/infant-formula-preparation-and-storage.html

On formula marketing: https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(23)00118-6/fulltext