A Guide To Your New Family's First Weeks - Meriter Health Services

Nutrition and Feeding: Formula Feeding
If you have decided that formula is the choice for you and your baby remember—love that you give during feeding does
not come from the milk. Holding, cuddling and the time you spend with your baby nurtures your baby, along with the
milk you provide.
For non-breastfeeding infants, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends iron-fortified infant formula for the
first year. There are a variety of infant formulas to choose from. Most formulas are made from cow’s milk; however,
soy-based formulas are available for infants with milk allergies or sensitivities. Homogenized cow’s milk is not safe for
infants in their first year. If there is a family history of milk allergies, please tell your baby’s doctor. You and
your baby’s doctor can choose the brand and type of formula that is best for your baby.
Types of Formula
Formula is available in three forms. Preparation time
and cost may be factors in your decision on which
form to use.
1. Ready to Feed
• Most expensive
• Easiest to prepare
• Needs no refrigeration until opened
• Convenient when traveling or uncertain of
water supply
2. Concentrated
• Must be mixed before feeding
• Requires safe water source
• Mix according to directions
• Can be stored open in refrigerator for up to 24
hours if not diluted
• Needs to be used within 24 hours once diluted
• Discard within 1-2 hours after preparation if
not refrigerated
3. Powder
• Mix according to directions on can
• Requires a safe water source
• Needs no refrigeration until mixed, then it is
stable refrigerated for 24 hours
• Least expensive
Preparing Formula
It is important to mix the formula according to the
manufacturer’s directions. In the hospital, you will
be using ready-to-feed formula, which requires no
special preparation. You should discard each bottle
within one hour of beginning the feeding. Do not
reuse bottles for feedings. Always wash your hands
before preparing formula and beginning a feeding.
No warming is necessary; babies can take cold
formula. If your baby prefers it warm, place the
bottle of formula in a container of warmed water.
NEVER MICROWAVE THE FORMULA.
Water Supply
Preparing formula with a safe and appropriate
water supply is important for your baby’s health.
When choosing the water source for infant formula
preparation, levels of nitrates, bacteria, copper, lead
and fluoride should be considered. Parents should
consult their baby’s provider on the most appropriate
water source for formula preparation.
Tap Water
• Do not use softened water for formula
preparation, because it contains salt.
• Use only fresh water directly from the cold-water
tap.
• Let water run for about a minute before using.
• You do not need to boil city water unless a water
advisory is in effect.
Well Water
• If you have well water, you should have it checked
for bacteria, nitrates, minerals and fluoride.
• You should not use water with elevated nitrate
levels for infants under 6 months of age.
• Bacteria in water can cause vomiting and diarrhea.
Boiling water will kill bacteria but increase nitrate
levels.
• Speak with your doctor about the need to provide
your baby with a fluoride supplement.
Water Testing: Recommendations for Testing
• If your home is less than 6 months old, have your
water tested for copper.
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