how to go about switching formulas

[ShellyNathanTaylor]

Greetings. 

My DS is 5 months old.  He's been on lactose free formula from about 2 1/2 months.  I'm not sure that he is lactose free (didn't really have any of the symptoms) however, he did tolerate this one and eat the most so we decided to go with it.  Now that he's comming up to 6 months I was interested in trying a different brand fortified with omega 3 and 6 (and its cheaper too!!).  I'd like to give it a shot, see what happens, I figure at worst we'll just have to switch back. 

What do you all think?  Should I try switching at all or just stay with the current formula? 

If I were to try and switch, how do I go about?  Do I slowly introduce 1 bottle at a time?

How long should I then let him try the new one before making a decision to switch back or stay on the new formula??

Thanks in advance...

Shelly

[Meggie]

I would switch if you do not think your LO is lactose intolerant.  When I was switching formulas with my LO I did it quite slowly.  Start by mixing the formulas in every bottle, mostly the older formula at first then gradually increase the ounces of the new formula.  If your LO is drinking 8oz bottles I would suggest:

Day 1: 7oz old/1oz new
Day 2: 6oz old/2oz new
Day 3: 5oz old/3oz new
Day 4: 4oz old/4oz new
Day 5: 3oz old/5oz new
Day 6: 2oz old/6oz new
Day 7: 1oz old/7oz new
Day 8: 8oz new formula

Your LO may experience some tummy troubles when switching formulas, but if they are not severe, they will eventually pass.  If your LO starts to vomit or get diarrhea, then I would stop immediately and go back to the old stuff.

[* Paula *]

Meghan has given you some great advice, sounds like the way to go - especially since you are switching from lactose free formula.

I would watch out for any tummy problems and discuss them with your GP if you are worried.

[ShellyNathanTaylor]

thanks for the feedback ladies.  Now i just have to make up my mind to go ahead and do it!!
shelly

[* Paula *]

Keep us posted on how you get on Shelly.