Generally, it is best to breastfeed your child. When breastfeeding is not an option, it is important to ensure that you prepare and feed your baby formula correctly.

Below are some general guidelines on bottle feeding and formula. If you have any questions, be sure to contact the Health Unit to speak to a public health nurse.

• Breastmilk or formula are an infant's major source of nutrients until about nine months of age. Solid food can be introduced at six months.
  
  
• Infant formulas come as Ready-to-Feed, Concentrated Liquid, or Powder. Follow the directions on the label exactly. The directions give the right strength for the proper health, growth and development of your baby. The wrong strength can cause constipation, diarrhea or improper growth and development.
  
  
• Follow-up formulas are for babies older than 6 months. They do not have all the same nutrients as starter infant formula.
  
  
• Iron-fortified infant formula is recommended to prevent iron deficiency anaemia. Discuss with your health care provider before using other formulas.
  
  
• Babies should stay on formula until 9-12 months old. At that time, whole (3.25% M.F. homogenized) cow's milk can be introduced.
  
  
• Formula contains all the vitamins needed. No need for extra vitamins or minerals. If you are breastfeeding and supplementing with formula, you may need a vitamin D supplement. This depends on the amount of formula your baby is taking.
  
  

  If your baby drinks	Amount of vitamin D to give (daily)
  Only breast milk	400 IU
  Less than 500 ml (16 oz) of formula	400 IU
  Between 500-1000 ml (16-32 oz) of formula	200 IU (You can give baby 400 IU every other day)
  1000 ml or more (32 oz) formula	No additional vitamin D is required

  
  
  
• Babies have times when they grow faster. Growth spurts occur at about 3 and 6 weeks and 3 months. Give more formula, not solid food.
  
  
• Different formulas are available for special situations (eg. prematurity, allergies). Consult with your baby's health care provider or dietitian.
  
  
• Whole-fat, homogenized cow's milk can be introduced at 9 to 12 months in infants with no allergy to dairy products.
  
  
• DO NOT USE for your baby until he/she is at least two years old: Almond Milk, Evaporated Milk, Goat's Milk, Rice Milk, Soy Milk.
  
  
• If your baby uses soy instead cow's milk formula, continue with infant formula until 2 years of age instead of switching to regular soy milk.
  
  
• If you need to or wish to choose an alternative milk substitute, consult your child's health care provider and see a dietitian to ensure you are meeting your child's nutrient needs. Almond milk, goat's milk, rice milk and soy milk are not equivalent to whole cow's milk.
  
  

More Information & Contact

For more information on food and nutrition for your baby and our services, call the Huron County Health Unit at 519.482.3416 OR toll free at 1.877.837.6143.