Starting your baby on a new formula is a big decision and can feel overwhelming. But for your baby it’s often very simple, so let’s start there. (You and your babe have got this, promise.)
As always, we recommend talking with your pediatrician before you make changes to your baby's formula and feeding routine — that's what they're here for.
A direct transition
Many babies can start drinking a new formula right away with no fuss. It’s always worth trying a bottle and seeing how it goes. They might make faces, spit or dribble a bit, or even refuse to take the bottle at first because babies are predisposed to sweet tastes (like breastmilk) and this is a new flavor. Babies also have a general tendency to reject something new (just wait until they start solids!).
Are you introducing a bottle for the first time (not just formula)? See our bottle feeding tips for a smooth first try.
A gradual transition: Mixing two brands of formula
If your baby is already drinking a routine cows' milk formula, it should be fine to mix Nara Organics with your current formula to make the transition easier. Make sure to follow the mixing directions for each formula brand before mixing the two formulas in one bottle.
During the transition, keep feeding the same size bottles your baby is used to. For instance, if they usually take a 4-ounce bottle, stick with this size so you can monitor their response to the new formula. How much they drink will help you gauge their tolerance.
On days 1-2, you can prepare 3 ounces of your baby’s current formula and add 1 ounce of prepared Nara Organics. Doing this for a couple of days to monitor your baby’s tolerance is suggested.
Days 3-4 you might offer 2 ounces of the current formula mixed with 2 ounces of Nara, gradually working towards a full transition to the new formula.
Over the next few days, 5-6, you can mix 1 ounce of your baby’s current formula to 3 ounces of Nara Organics.
By day 7, you can introduce bottles that 100% Nara Organics.
Some babies may transition quicker than others, while some may take more time. For Nara Organics, please keep in mind that Nara uses a 1:1 ratio of water and powder. Add 1 unpacked, level scoop of powder to every 1 oz of water.
Mixing formula and breastmilk
Another way to ease the transition to a new formula is to mix prepared Nara infant formula with breastmilk. If you do mix them together, it’s recommended that you carefully prepare the formula according to the directions on the can before mixing the prepared formula with breastmilk. Always follow the instructions on the formula can. If you’re trying Nara Organics, we have clear instructions on our can label, or read our mixing instructions here.
Formula and baby poop
Babies’ poop changes with their diet, so as you introduce a new formula, your babe’s poop may look or smell different. This is normal! Keep an eye on their daily diapers. You can read All About Baby Poop to get a sense of what’s concerning and what’s normal.
Nara Organics infant formula includes prebiotics, which supports healthy digestion and may help with soft poops.1,2 We also use an easy-on-tummies protein blend patterned after mature breastmilk.3
Talk to your pediatrician
If you suspect that your baby isn’t tolerating a new formula well, be sure to address this with your pediatrician immediately.
