Tips to navigate baby formula shortage

This paid piece is sponsored by Avera.

Feeding a baby during the first 12 months of life isn’t always an easy path. With a baby formula shortage now thrown into the mix, the process is getting a bit more stressful for moms who have an infant.

Experts at Avera are here to give you some sound advice to get through this. Of course, it depends where you are in the process.

For babies at any age, it’s best to call your provider if you run into issues with formula supply.

“Navigating this shortage can be a struggle. If parents have questions, they can always talk to their pediatrician on what’s best for their baby,” said Dr. Kara Bruning, a pediatrician with Avera Medical Group.

Using formula during shortage

Parents using formula should consider a few key things. Ultimately, the baby’s nutrition is of utmost importance.

• Buy what’s available, even if it’s not your typical brand.
• If your baby has nutritional needs for specialty formula, talk to your provider about your best options.
• Do NOT use homemade formula.
• Do NOT dilute formula.
• Do NOT use alternative milks.

Alternative milks such as goat’s milk can affect the nutritional absorption in the gut and lead to other problems, said Dr. Katherine Wang, a neonatologist with Avera McKennan Hospital & University Health Center. Additionally, watered-down formula can create issues with electrolytes and lead to other health issues, including seizures. Mixing formula needs to be done by carefully and accurately following instructions on the label.

“Formula is something that has to be done very accurately, and you don’t want to be carefree with it,” said Linda Klein, a lactation consultant at Avera McKennan.

Tips for new and expecting parents

If you are expecting and able to give breastfeeding a try, consider this option. That said, breastfeeding doesn’t always come easily. Many mothers can’t breastfeed or need help supplementing baby’s needs with formula.

“Breastfeeding is natural. Natural does not mean easy,” Wang said. “It doesn’t come right off the bat, and it’s something that many moms have to work for.”

Those moms who need assistance or advice with breast milk production can talk with a lactation consultant like Klein.

Klein said a lactation consultant can help moms understand how to latch correctly, understand if baby is getting enough breast milk and to support mom in increasing production as possible.

“We really are fortunate to have options like formula because breastfeeding isn’t possible for everyone,” Klein said.

Get more health and wellness tips at AveraBalance.org.