Question
How should I deal with my baby’s diarrhea before switching formulas? Six months ago, the baby was allergic to milk and switched to Nutramigen formula. Recently, I wanted to switch to cow’s milk extensively hydrolyzed formula, but after just a few days of mixing in one-third of the new formula, the baby’s stools have started to become hard at first and then runny and sticky, resembling snot. Is this a problem with the formula switch or is the baby’s stomach upset? Because the baby moves around during naptime and sometimes the blanket isn’t covered properly, should I continue switching formulas for a few more days or stop and focus on feeding the original Nutramigen? Thank you.
Answer
Both options are not feasible, but considering that the baby’s stool frequency is not excessive, it is more likely to be related to the former. I suggest not following the book’s advice of mixing in one-third of the new formula, as there are discomfort symptoms. You can first try using an even smaller amount, such as one-fourth. Then carefully observe; if there is still nausea and vomiting, temporarily switch back to the old formula for feeding.