A Guide to Switching Milk Formulas

A Guide to Switching Milk Formulas | Have you always been searching for more information on the various types of milk formulas available? Here’s some advice on how to smoothly transition from one formula to another.

The process of finding the right milk formula for your little one is always daunting. As their body is still growing, you need to thoroughly understand the ingredients used before comparing one brand with another. Ultimately, you want one that’s not just healthy, but tasty to your child! As a tip, always check and verify the source of the milk formula and how it was produced for peace of mind.

Here are answers to questions parents often ask about different milk formula types and advice on how to smoothly transition your little one from one formula to another. We recommend that you seek support from your preferred doctor if you have questions or concerns you wish to clarify.

Is switching milk formulas harmful for my child in any way?

It is not harmful at all! Milk formulas are, after all, produced from cow or goat’s milk. The most important thing to do after switching is to monitor them to see if the new milk formula sits well with their digestive system.

Can I keep switching between formulas?

Yes, you can! Since most milk formulas are made from cow’s milk, switching between formulas is perfectly fine. If you are looking to switch to a formula that is easy on your little one’s tummy, try Friso® Gold milk powder available in Malaysia. They are produced with NOVAS™ Signature Milk that is imported from dairy farms in the Netherlands. Every formula will undergo the brand’s strict chain control process known as “Grass to Glass”, and each can of milk will have TrackEasy QR codes imprinted on it for easy tracing of the ingredients’ origin.

NOVAS™ Signature Milk is sourced from Dutch farms with over 140 years of history and experience. The cows are all specially selected and fed to produce the high-quality milk that is used to produce the milk formulas everyone loves. Together with the brand’s LocNutri Technology, Friso Gold milk formulas are rich in nutrients and easily digestible.

A step by step guide on how to switch formulas

If you have already decided on the milk formula to switch to, the next step is to gradually transition their milk intake over the course of one to two weeks. The following table provides a quick guide to switching from your current formula to, for example, Friso Gold:

As a reminder, there’s no definite duration nor the need to quickly transition from one formula to another. If it takes a longer time for your child to accept their new milk formula, be patient with them. Once they completely accept the new formula, it will all be worth it.

Tips to smoothly switch milk formulas

Firstly, always read and closely follow the instructions printed on the product, because different brands have their respective mixing and dilution methods, which includes different water-to-milk powder ratios. The rule of thumb is to avoid mixing milk powders of two or more brands in a single bottle because that’s a disaster waiting to happen.

Secondly, closely observe your child after switching. Within the first 24 hours, you will have an idea of how their body is receiving the new formula. If you notice these signs below, it means the new formula is not suitable for them, and you might need to switch again:

• Diarrhea (Watery stools)
• Constipation (Stools with a consistency that’s thicker than peanut butter)
• Excessive gas (Constantly farting)

It is also worth noting that small changes in your child's bowel habits — such as texture, frequency, and slight changes in the colour of their stool — are not causes for concern. This is because the amount of additives (such as iron and prebiotics) contained in the formula may differ from brand to brand. The best thing to do is to stick with the same milk formula type and brand for at least a week to get a clearer idea of how it actually affects their digestive system and bowel movements.

  
It’s important to stay composed and patient in the process of switching. It’s also worth noting that your child’s preferences may change as they age and become more curious about flavours. Therefore, be open to trying new formulas when needed, because every formula you try gets you closer to the right one for your little one.

If your child has issues switching formula, speak to your pediatrician or call the Friso Careline at 1800-88-1647 for support, available every Monday to Friday, from 8.30 am to 4.30 pm.

References:
https://www.mightymoms.club/baby-formula/switching-baby-formula
https://www.fhs.gov.hk/english/health_info/child/30008.html
https://www.babycenter.com/baby/formula-feeding/can-i-switch-formula-brands-and-if-so-how-do-i-ease-the-tran_1334521
https://www.healthychildren.org/English/healthy-living/nutrition/Pages/milk-allergy-foods-and-ingredients-to-avoid.aspx