Why is my baby refusing formula feed? (Query)

I breast feed my baby boy up till 3.5 months of age. I want to try formula now. I have started to give a particular brand of formula milk. After 6-7 hrs of having the milk my baby vomits (projectile vomiting) even if he has only 2 to 4 table spoons of it. Secondly, my baby refuses to take the formula milk whenever I try to give him, which we think he dislikes, as he has got used to breast milk. I want my baby to take formula milk whenever required (if I am not available) so is there any formula milk in India which tastes good (similar to breast milk) and easy to digest? Why is he refusing it?

If you have noticed that your baby is refusing formula often, then you have guessed it right – he dislikes the taste of formula and it’s not going too well with his systems. Unfortunately there is no formula food in India or elsewhere in the world that is similar to the taste of breast milk. Neither can any formula mimic the properties of breast milk. Breast milk is produced in the mother’s body as per the need and requirement of the baby. Know formula food is an artificial food for your baby. At three or four months of age your baby’s digestive system is still developing and can be averse to anything other than breast milk. Breast milk is also therapeutic. It boosts your baby’s immune system, help fight internal infections, helps in brain stimulation, is easy on the baby’s stomach and aids better digestion leading to satiety and good health.

Experts advise to breast feed babies for at least six months from birth, and there are good reasons for this. If you are worried about your baby’s hunger pangs while you are away. Try using a breast pump. Store adequate amount and keep it for such times. This is the only way you can be sure that you are giving your baby the best while you are away. Know 10 reasons why breastfeeding is better than the bottle. 

Remember babies would take time to adjust to any food that’s introduced. If giving formula each time lead your baby to vomiting stop the brand you are using immediately. If you are still an optimist with formula food try offering him the same after a month. If the signs still persist, try a different brand. But don’t keep on experimenting. This will only add stress to your baby’s already developing digestive system.

You can try breast pumps to store breast milk when you are not available to breastfeed.

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• 5 tips to prevent diaper rashes  

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