What Are the Dangers of Mixing Baby Formula Improperly?

A baby̵7;s tiny body goes through crucial physical changes in the first years of life and he̵7;ll need properly mixed formula or breast milk to meet his needs. To help your baby get the right amount of nutrition, follow the exact water-to-formula instructions on the package. Improperly mixed formula can lead to health issues and illness, and can negatively impact your baby̵7;s growth.

  1. Nutrition

    • Properly mixed formula provides a baby with vital nutrients. If you add too much water to the baby formula, your little one isn̵7;t going to get enough daily calories. When your baby doesn̵7;t get enough calories, he may fail to grow properly, gain weight and thrive. Too little water may lead to too many calories for the baby and improper weight gain.

    Dehydration

    • Since milk is the main source of water for your baby during the first months of life, it̵7;s important that you add the right amount of water. Since a human body is made up mainly of water, he must get enough of the stuff. Too little water can lead to dehydration and improper bodily functioning, according to the Mayo Clinic. This can also result in constipation, tiredness, dry skin, fussiness and sunken fontanels, which are the soft spots on top of his head. If the baby has a fever or infection, he needs the proper amounts of water to be able to function properly.

    Illness

    • If you don̵7;t follow the formula̵7;s water-to-formula ratio, it could make your baby sick. According to Penn State Hershey Medical Center, improper mixing of baby formula can cause abdominal pain and can alter your baby̵7;s salt balance, which could lead to seizures. The USDA National Agriculture Library states that too little water can put excessive strain on the baby̵7;s kidneys and digestive system.

    Correct Mixing Ratio

    • The water-to-formula ratio is quite standard among formula manufacturers. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, the correct ratio for powdered formula is 1 unpacked level scoop of formula to 2 ounces of sterile water, unless otherwise specified on the manufacturer̵7;s label. Using clean hands, add the warmed water to a clean bottle, scoop in the formula, tighten the cap on the bottle and shake well. If you̵7;re working with concentrated formula, mix equal parts of water and concentrated liquid in a clean bottle and shake it. Ready-to-feed infant formula doesn̵7;t need to be diluted with water and is ready for consumption. Simply shake the content vigorously before opening. Warm the liquid if your baby prefers a warm bottle of formula.

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