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The Nursing Baby - Q&A

Could you tell me if it would be okay for me to mix half wholemilk and half formula for him now that i have decided to wean him at 9 months?? I do not want him on straight formula because I am actually against formula but for medical reasons i have to wean and on wholemilk alone..... i am concerned of him becoming constipated.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends no cow's milk before baby's first birthday, but instead, the majority of baby's calories should come from breastmilk (preferably), or formula (the fall back solution).

Though I certainly understand your reluctance to use a breastmilk substitute, there are reasons formula is preferred over cow's milk. Before baby's first birthday, her digestion system is less mature, and cow's milk is much more likely to cause anemia. Though you cannot see this condition in its early stages, it causes irritation in the intestines which leads to anemia. Anemia can lead to slow growth, both physcially and mentally. US doctors routinely scan for this condition, generally when baby is 9 months of age.

To alleviate any constipation, be sure to give your baby lots of healthy fruit and fiber, especially prunes.

Keep in mind that there are very few conditions which require weaning your baby. If you need a course of drug treatment, be sure to reference the drug in Hale's "Medications and Mother's Milk". The majority of drugs are marked not safe for breastfeeding, to protect the manufacturer against lawsuits. Despite these markings, many of these medications are safe. Unfortunately, many physicians read the drug makers pamphlets and assume that the drugs are not safe for breastfeeding mothers. Those moms who need lithium or radiation/chemotherapy are among some of the unlucky who must wean. I hope that your health improves!

Some of the links below contain more information on cow's milk, anemia, and drugs in breastmilk:

• AAP RECOMMENDS IRON-FORTIFIED INFANT FORMULAS
• Severe Nutritional Deficiencies in Toddlers Resulting From Health Food Milk Alternatives
• The Transfer of Drugs and Other Chemicals Into Human Milk
• The Juice on Cow's Milk for Babies
• Iron Deficiency Can Hamper Kids' Learning, Performance

These tips are not intended to be medical advice. Please consult your healthcare provider if you have questions.