Smooth Transition: How to Switch Formulas Safely and Effectively
Your baby’s growing and their digestive system is developing, too. Learn how to switch formulas the right way to support your child’s nutritional needs.
You may be thinking about changing your baby’s formula whether it’s due to their age or digestive issues like fussiness, gas and spitting up.
Regardless of the reason, it’s best to speak with your doctor before switching your baby’s formula. Once you have the go-ahead, here’s some things to consider when doing the switch.
Why switch baby formulas
Many parents choose to switch formulas for different reasons such as adapting to different dietary needs or preferences, feeding issues, or transitioning to a different stage formula as their baby grows.
How to switch formulas
Most babies will do well on different brands of the same type of infant formula and can transition to the new formula right away. Be patient, it can take up to 5 days for some babies to adjust.
How to choose which formula to switch to
Talk to your baby’s doctor
Your baby's doctor is your superhero when it comes to their health. They know your baby's unique needs and can help guide your formula choice based on any potential intolerances or other dietary requirements your baby might have. Your doctor may recommend switching to a lactose-reduced or soy-based formula. If your doctor suspects your baby has an allergy, they may recommend hypoallergenic formula designed for babies with allergies.
Choose the right stage
Look for formulas that are age-appropriate for your little one. Different formulas are designed for different stages, such as newborns or infants 6 months and older.
Read the label instructions
Remember to carefully follow the preparation instructions on the label for the product you are using. Instructions can vary from product to product and between infant formula brands.
Tips for switching formulas
- Don’t worry about alternating or combining the new formula with the formula you’ve been using: Baby’s transition to the new formula can happen right away.
- Avoid mixing different formulas! Formulas aren’t meant to be combined. Plus, if the reason you decided to switch formulas is because baby is experiencing digestive issues, you won’t be able to identify the cause if you are mixing formulas.
- Give your baby 3 to 5 days to get used to the new formula: The adjustment could happen right away or it may take some time to adapt. While you’re transitioning, your baby may go through some other slight changes—mainly to their stool pattern, gas and how often they spit up. Don’t worry, though, this is normal!
Is switching formulas safe?
Switching baby formulas is generally considered safe and common but it's important to talk to your baby’s doctor before making any changes.
References:
1 Czerkies L et al., JPHN. 2019;1(1):19-26.
*Like all infant formulas
†Ingredients not genetically engineered.
ǂProbiotics only in powder format.
Related articles
How to Switch From Breastfeeding to Bottle-feeding
Whether you want to express breast milk or you’re thinking of supplementing with baby formula, try these 13 tips on how to switch from breastfeeding to bottle-feeding.
7 mins to read
The ins and outs of babies’ digestive system
By Dr. Jeff Habert, family physician
3 mins to read
Benefits of probiotics for babies
This article includes contributions from Dr. Dina Kulik, pediatrician, and Charlotte Geroudet, GD.
5 mins to read
Food Allergies in Babies
There is growing evidence that many factors in the environment play a role in allergies developing in babies.
3 mins to read
The difference between prebiotics and probiotics
If you have doubts about what the function of each one is, keep reading
3 mins to read
How to prepare and store baby formula
Formula. It’s full of nutrition—but how you prep and store it can serve up some questions, too.
5 mins to read
3 tips for your baby’s happy, healthy tummy
By Dr. Ted Jablonski, family physician
3 mins to read
Baby Poop Guide
This baby poop guide will help you understand the differences between different baby stool colours and consistencies as well as the stools of babies on different diets.
7 mins to read
How to strengthen your baby's immune system
By Dr. Ted Jablonski, family physician
3 mins to read
Baby Feeding and Nutrition: The Guide
How will you feed your newborn?
7 mins to read
How to Choose & Introduce Formula to Your Baby
Choosing and introducing a baby formula can be a difficult decision for any parent.
5 mins to read
Guide to breastfeeding and feeding positions
Yes, it seems like another pregnancy miracle, but it’s true—your body produces the perfect baby food: Breast milk.
11 mins to read
Upset stomach in babies: A guide to baby gut health
Wondering what causes constipation in babies or need help if your toddler has diarrhea? Find out the importance of baby gut health when it comes to protecting against common tummy problems.
4 mins to read
10 money-saving tips for having a baby on a budget
Working out how much to save for a baby can be a daunting task.
4 mins to read
Baby vaccine schedule
Early childhood immunizations are an important safeguard against serious and sometimes life-threatening illnesses for your baby.
4 mins to read
Infant probiotic | What to Look for
By Dr. Ted Jablonski, family physician
2 mins to read
How to be a confident parent: start today with six easy steps
Becoming a new parent and bringing your newborn home, can be a daunting experience to navigate.
3 mins to read
Understanding why babies cry
Wondering why babies cry? If you’re struggling to understand what your baby is trying to tell you, check this list for possible clues to help.
2 mins to read
Newborn Sleep Development - What you need to know
You’re half-awake at 4 am with a wide-awake baby in your arms and wondering if you’ll ever get a full night’s sleep again. Don’t worry, you will.
6 mins to read
Related tools
Article finder
Expert articles and tips about development, parenting support, and nutrition
Product finder
Find Nestlé Nutrition Products right for you and your baby
Checklists finder tool
Checklists and tips to help along your parenting journey
