Should I be moving onto follow-on milk?

[newmum234]

DS is now 8 months old and is still having the same Aptamil 1 he’s always had (the one that is suitable from birth). I’m now worried that I’ve done the wrong thing and should have moved him onto the Aptamil follow-on milk when he turned 6 months. Why do they have follow-on milk - is it because it contains more iron? I’m worried DS isn’t getting enough iron because he’s not had any meat yet, just veg, fruit and carbs. Please help!

There must be some differences if its not suitable under 6 months. I imagine its not as regulated as first infant formula

@dementedpixie

There must be some differences if its not suitable under 6 months. I imagine its not as regulated as first infant formula

It is illegal to advertise first formula, so companies created "follow on milk" which has a minutely different makeup and can be advertised and sold at a discount. It is a purely profit-based decision.

In countries which have adopted the WHO code regarding breast milk substitutes completely (the WHO code relates to advertising of such products) follow on milk does not exist.

Also for anyone reading please don't give your child toddler milk age 1+ unless medically advised, as this is absolutely unnecessary.

www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2018/02/180205113039.htm. (US study)

@newmum234 the recommendation is for 2 iron rich foods a day past 6 months, eggs, meat, spinach etc are all great sources of iron.

Thanks - oh dear, I don’t think DS has been getting two a day More like one at most, sometimes none! Yesterday for example he had prune purée for breakfast (he’s been a bit constipated recently) then avocado on toast for lunch!

@newmum234 prunes are a great source of iron, and avacados have a fair amount too. Sounds like you're doing great :)

It's true that follow on formula has extra iron. The iron in formula isn't as easily absorbed by the body as iron naturally occurring in foods though, so most of this extra iron goes in one end and straight out the other. It can make some babies a bit constipated too.

If your baby is content with first stage, stick with that.