My 4 month old baby completely denies taking formula milk , we tried lactogen1 and similac advance 1 but baby refuses to drink. Any suggestions on how to takle this situation.

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Namaste Father,

You may try out changing the concentration of the formula with water ratio, also if still does not work plant based milk can be given such as soya milk , you also get formula milk made with its base, also you can give coconut milk

Accepted Answer

It's common for some babies to resist taking formula, especially if they have been primarily breastfed or are not used to the taste or texture. Here are some strategies you can try to help your 4-month-old baby get used to formula milk:

1. Try Gradually Mixing Breast Milk and Formula:

If you're breastfeeding, you can start by mixing a small amount of formula with breast milk. Gradually increase the formula amount and decrease the breast milk over time. This helps the baby adjust to the new taste.

2. Change the Temperature of the Formula:

Some babies prefer their milk warmer or cooler. Try offering the formula at different temperatures to see if your baby prefers it warmer (closer to body temperature) or slightly cooler.

3. Try Different Bottles and Nipples:

Sometimes, babies refuse formula due to the bottle or nipple. Experiment with different bottle types or nipple shapes to find one that your baby feels comfortable with.

4. Offer When Baby is Calm:

Try offering the formula when your baby is calm and not too hungry or upset. A relaxed baby may be more open to trying something new.

5. Try Different Feeding Positions:

Babies may respond better to formula if they are fed in a slightly different position than when breastfeeding. You can try feeding your baby upright or in a more relaxed cradle position to see if that helps.

6. Switch Formulas Slowly:

If you switch from one brand of formula to another, do it gradually. Start by mixing the old formula with the new one and slowly increase the amount of the new formula over time.

7. Use a Syringe or Spoon:

If your baby is completely refusing the bottle, you can try offering small amounts of formula using a syringe or spoon to get them used to the taste. This can help in slowly introducing formula without the pressure of the bottle.

8. Check for Sensitivities or Allergies:

If your baby still refuses to drink the formula and seems uncomfortable, there may be an underlying issue like formula intolerance or sensitivity to certain ingredients (e.g., cow's milk protein). In this case, consult your pediatrician about trying a hypoallergenic or sensitive formula.

9. Be Patient:

It can take time for babies to adjust to formula. Try offering the formula at different times of the day when the baby is not overly hungry or sleepy. Stay consistent, and don’t pressure the baby too much.

If you’ve tried all these methods and the baby continues to refuse formula, consult with your pediatrician to explore alternative feeding solutions or other types of formula suitable for your baby.