Feeding Your 3-Month-Old: Can You Use Skimmed Milk Instead of Formula?

Can I feed skimmed cow's milk mixed with water to my 3-month-old? No, this is not advisable. Your baby needs full-fat milk designed for babies to thrive and grow properly. Using skimmed milk could lead to malnutrition, making your baby hungry and irritable.

Primarily, breastfeed if you can. If that's not possible, opt for infant formula, which provides all the necessary nutrients for your baby's growth and development. Formula milk is the recommended choice for the first year, and switching to follow-on milk is not necessary and can be a waste of time and money.

Understanding Infants' Nutritional Needs

According to the UK National Health Service (NHS), formula milk is essential to provide the necessary nutrients for your baby's growth and development. However, it does not offer the same health benefits as breast milk. Breast milk is a protected source that offers immunity-boosting factors to your baby, whereas formula lacks these protective properties.

Key Points on Formula Milk:

First infant formula, based on whey protein, is designed to be more digestible for babies. It should always be the first formula you give to your baby, and unless advised otherwise, it is the only formula your baby needs. Babies can continue drinking it once solid foods are introduced around 6 months and for the entirety of their first year. Switching to a different brand of formula is generally not recommended, but if you suspect a particular brand disagrees with your baby, consult a midwife or health visitor for advice.

From 6 Months to One Year: Introducing Solid Foods

From the age of 6 months, you can start introducing solid foods like baby rice, mashed fruits, or blended versions of your meals without nuts or honey. By this age, you can also start considering whole cows' milk or sheeps/goats milk if it is pasteurized.

The Role of Vitamin Drops

All children aged 6 months to 5 years should have vitamin drops containing vitamins A, C, and D every day to support their health and development. This is especially important as these vitamins are vital for bone and immune system health.

This article aims to provide you with guidance on infant feeding, emphasizing the importance of breast milk and formula over skimmed milk for the first year. We recommend consulting with healthcare professionals for personalized advice and support.