Because of convenience the commercially prepared formulas such as Similac are recommended. It is suggested to use these formulas for a good start. There is less spitting with the low-iron formulas.

This formula should not be changed and is full strength. These preparations contain vitamins, so no additional vitamins are needed.

*NOTE: Just because an infant will chew on anything and guzzle anything as long as it is offered--no more than 24 ounces of milk a day should be given. Your baby will get plenty of nourishment. Fat babies seem to get sicker more quickly and more seriously, as well as develop anemia much more often than properly fed infants.

Preparation of Formula

Whether you breast or bottle feed, (depending on where you live) you may not have to boil the water or the bottles and nipples when making formula. Bottles and nipples should be thoroughly cleaned with hot water and soap, rinsed in hot water, and drain-dried. You can use any of the three forms of milk, but we would suggest the liquid concentrate, making just one bottle at a time, using hot water from the faucet, diluting the concentrated milk from the can half-and-half and keeping the concentrated milk in the can in the refrigerator until the next feeding. Put a plastic cover on the can if you desire. The concentrate should be discarded if not used in 24 hours.

1. Formulas need not be heated prior to use, but may be warmed. Nipple holes should be made so that when bottles are inverted, milk will drop at the rate of one drop per second. Most pediatric authorities state that sterilization of formulas is not necessary.
2. There are currently available "ready-made formulas." These preparations are simply poured into a clean bottle. It is more expensive than the other forms, but is very convenient for travel.
3. These commercially prepared formulas are essentially the same and may be interchanged.