When opting to feed your baby formula or breastfeed while supplementing with formula, it is wise to monitor your child for reactions when changing or starting infant formulas. Some formula allergies can be attributed to certain proteins found in cow's milk and soy, while others can be classified as an intolerance to the formula's ingredient list. Preventing allergic reactions to formula can start at home with a few simple guidelines to safeguard your baby.
Step 1
Breastfeed your child in lieu of formula feedings for at least six months. Breastfed babies are less likely to develop allergies to milk byproducts. This provides your child with necessary immunities and helps your child develop proper digestive enzymes.
Step 2
Read formula can labels. Milk-based formulas and soy-based formulas are most often associated with allergic reactions in bottle-fed infants. Avoid formulas with higher contents of milk or soy for the baby's first year. Your pediatrician may recommend a specially made formula that can only be obtained through a prescription.
Step 3
Avoid formulas that have been processed near peanuts, eggs and fish. The FDA provides allergy warnings on processed-food products to inform consumers who might have an allergy to a product or who might develop one upon using the product.
Step 4
Request allergy testing for your infant. This is especially helpful if there is a family history of allergy to milk or other ingredients listed in formula. These tests can break down any potential triggers and help you avoid allergy risks.
Step 5
Choose formulas that contain particle breakdown of protein. The smaller proteins can prevent and eliminate allergies to formula. Carnation Good Start, Pregestimil and Alimentum are a few examples of these types of formula.
