Ask Our Expert - Reduced Formula Intake

March 21, 2010

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Specializing in feeding and nutrition.


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Ask Mary Silva Reduced Formula Intake

QUESTION


Dear Ms. Silva, My seven-month-old granddaughter only takes about 10 ounces a day of her formula, but she eats her solids well. Her doctor keeps saying it is a virus, which I don't know if I believe. She has not had a taste of any juice yet for he says not to give it to her yet. She has tried different bottles but nothing seems to work. Any advice? Thank you. — MJ Grandmother in Virginia, Mn

ANSWER	March 22, 2001


Dear MJ Grandmother, It is worrisome when a baby won't drink enough formula. Being sick with a virus or any other type of illness will often cause babies to drink less formula or eat less food. Sometimes it takes a few days to bounce back to drinking more after recovering from the illness. When babies don't drink enough formula it can be helpful to add a scoop of powdered formula to solid foods three or four times a day. A mixture of one scoop of formula powder to one half cup of a moist food or one small jar of baby food is usually acceptable to the baby. You should discuss this method with her doctor before trying it because this method may be stressful to the immature kidneys of infants. You're right not to give her juice at this time since it won't give her the nutrients that she needs. Also drinking juice may cause her to drink even less formula. Giving her fruits and vegetables is a better way to provide her with the nutrients that juices contain. — by Mary Silva, M.S., R.D.

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