Level 1: Why do newborns need milk powder?
1. Babies need different nutrients for growth and development
After the newborn is born, breast milk is the best food choice. But as your baby grows and develops, the nutrients in breast milk may not meet his needs. Therefore, it is necessary to switch to milk powder suitable for this age group to meet the baby\’s needs for various nutrients.
2. Difficulty in breastfeeding
Some mothers are unable to breastfeed due to physical or other reasons. At this time, they need to use milk powder to meet their baby\’s nutritional needs. Moreover, in some special cases (such as infection, drug treatment, etc.), doctors may also recommend the use of formula milk powder.
3. Allergy risk
Some babies are allergic to certain foods, including breast milk and regular formula. If an allergic reaction occurs, it will need to be changed to a special formula suitable for that age as soon as possible.
Level 2: When can I start replacing milk powder?
1. Doctor’s advice
Generally speaking, doctors will recommend when to start replacing milk powder based on the baby\’s age and physical condition. Under normal circumstances, the baby should take breast milk as the main food for the first 6 months after birth, and then gradually add complementary food and milk powder.
2. Baby’s needs
If the baby still cannot get enough nutrition after 6 months, or has problems such as allergic reactions, then it needs to be replaced with a special formula suitable for that age group.
3. Family conditions
Some families have special conditions, such as mothers needing to go to work. At this time, milk powder may be needed to meet the baby\’s nutritional needs.
Level 3: How to choose suitable formula milk powder?
1. Choose according to age group
Babies of different ages have different needs for nutrients, so the choice of milk powder also needs to be selected according to the age group. Generally speaking, formula milk powder on the market will indicate the applicable age group.
2. Understand the ingredients
When choosing formula milk, you need to pay attention to its ingredient list. Generally speaking, a good formula should contain a variety of nutrients and not contain harmful substances such as excessive sugar and additives.
3. Brand reputation
When choosing formula milk powder, you can refer to the reviews of other mothers and the credibility of the brand. Some well-known brands of formula are generally more reliable.
Level 4: What issues should be paid attention to when replacing milk powder?
1. Gradual transition
If you need to change milk powder, you should do so gradually rather than suddenly. You can first add a small amount of new milk powder to the original milk powder, and then gradually increase the proportion of new milk powder until it is completely converted to new milk powder.
2. Observe the baby’s reaction
In the process of changing milk powder, you need to pay attention to the baby\’s reaction. If allergy occurs, indigestion and other problems, you need to stop using it in time and consult a doctor for advice.
3. Ensure hygiene
Whether it is breast milk or formula milk, hygiene needs to be ensured before feeding. Especially when making formula, you need to follow proper procedures and use clean tools and containers.
Level 5: Under what circumstances cannot milk powder be replaced?
1. Infants suffering from diseases
If the baby suffers from certain diseases, such as congenital heart disease, cholestasis, etc., then replacing milk powder may have an impact on his health. At this time, you need to seek medical advice.
2. There is nothing wrong with the baby
If your baby grows and develops normally on breast milk or the current formula and does not develop allergies or other problems, there is no need to change the formula.
3. Family financial conditions do not allow it
Some high-end formula milk powders are relatively expensive. For families whose financial conditions do not allow it, replacing milk powder may bring financial pressure.
Level 6: How to properly store and use formula?
1. Storage temperature
Powdered formula should be stored in a dry, cool place. Generally speaking, the most suitable storage temperature is 10-20℃. If the storage environment is too humid or the temperature is too high, the quality of the milk powder will be affected.
2. Correct use
When making formula milk powder, you need to add water and milk powder according to the proportions in the instructions, and follow the correct production process. If too much or too little water is added, the quality of the milk powder and the health of the baby will be affected.
3. Do not reuse
Once formula has been prepared, it should be fed to your baby within 2 hours and leftover formula should not be reused. Because the prepared milk powder may breed bacteria and cause harm to the baby\’s health.
4. Pay attention to the shelf life
The shelf life of formula milk powder of different brands and models is slightly different, so you need to carefully check the shelf life marked on the packaging. Once the shelf life has expired, it can no longer be used.
Summary:
Newborns can switch to milk powder, but the choice needs to be based on the doctor’s advice and the baby’s needs. When changing milk powder, it is necessary to make a gradual transition, and pay attention to the baby\’s reaction and ensure hygiene. In addition, there are some details that need to be paid attention to when storing and using formula.
