The nationwide shortage of infant formula is being felt here in Washington – where supplies are tight, and new parents are trying to deal with it.
Eliza Lagerquist, a clinical dietitian with UW Medicine, says if you’re running short, don’t dilute the formula with water.
That will dilute out the nutrients and the calories, and can lead to malnutrition as well as poor weight gain,” she cautioned.
If you run out, whole milk is not a safe alternative.
“Whole milk can be detrimental or hard on the stomachs and intestines of infants under one,” Lagerquist explained. “It has too many of some nutrients and too few of others, and has led to intestinal bleeding. So, you do not want to use whole milk.”
If your baby is on normal formula, it’s fine to switch brands. If you’re using a specialty formula, talk to you doctor first.
Don’t use any formula that’s past the expiration date. If it’s expired throw it out.
Finally, if you can’t find formula, contact your pediatrician’s office, your local WIC office, or a food bank. One of them should be able to help.
More Info: With the baby formula shortage, what should I do if I can’t find any?
