Many mothers choose to feed their babies formula because
of hectic schedules and the difficulty with pumping milk. As a result,
formula is a great option for many mothers. However, lots of moms regret
the choice of feeding their babies formula when the baby develops colic.
It will help mothers to realize that many babies, no matter whether breast
fed or formula fed, will simply suffer from colic. So, if your baby is
suffering from colic don't second guess yourself because most babies that
develop colic simply develop it.
When you became pregnant you were probably really excited
and started making plans. These plans may have included the choice to feed
your baby formula and even if you did a lot of research to find the "right"
formula you probably were unaware that each baby has different needs and
that your baby might actually develop colic. Many mothers have heard of
colic, yet don't realize what it really is until it happens to their baby.
But, once it affects your baby you will become more concerned about the
best formula for your baby that might help them feel better and suffer
less.
There are some signs that will let you know if changing
formula is a good idea. One of these is if your baby has stomach and gas
pains after a feeding. If this is the case and you and your doctor believe
a new formula will help then changing is a good idea. However, keep in
mind that colic frequently worsens before it gets better so when changing
formula be prepared for a couple of rough days before being able to determine
if the new formula is working better than the old one. Also, don't change
formulas frequently if it is not necessary because this could make your
baby worse.
If you have decided to change formulas then you might
consider Carnation Good Start. The company markets this formula as having
"comfort proteins" that are easier for the baby to break down and as a
result have less gas pain. However, this brand really only works for babies
that tolerate cow's proteins because the formula is made from this. Many
babies do have a sensitivity or even allergy to cow's proteins, as well
as others, that parents never realize until they switch formulas with different
proteins and the baby gets worse.
In the case your baby does not react well to Carnation's
Good Start then you might want to try a soy based formula. About 50% of
baby's that are allergic to cow's proteins are also allergic to soy proteins,
but 50% are not so it might just work for your baby. You certainly don't
want to try a formula your baby is allergic to, but you also don't want
them suffering because you are too scared to try a different formula. So,
talk to your doctor to see if a soy protein formula is a good option for
your baby and if so which brand might work best for baby.
In the instance that neither Carnation Good Start or soy
formulas work for your baby then a hypoallergenic formula might be your
last option. These formulas are great for babies with a sensitive digestive
system, however they are certainly expensive, and because of this most
parents only use them in the case that their baby cannot tolerate any other
formula.
Colic is no fun for baby or the parents, however with
a little patience and trying different formulas you will be successful
and help your baby find comfort. So, talk to your doctor about what formula
might be best for your baby to try when colic appears and then take it
from there.
About the Author
Vickie Barnes is a colic veteran of two colicky babies.
Please visit her website ColicHelp.com,
for more support and resources for dealing with colic.
