Some Similac formulas are ready-to-eat and don’t require water. However, you will need to add water to a powdered or concentrated formula. Make sure you follow all of the directions exactly. Try to use as little formula as possible—you still want the puree to hold its shape on a spoon. That way, your baby can practice their eating skills, rather than just drinking the mixture. [4] X Expert Source Amy ChowRegistered Dietitian Expert Interview. 22 October 2020.
Mix up the oatmeal right before the feeding. Don’t let the oatmeal sit out before the feeding because it will gradually thicken. If it’s too thick, it can become a choking hazard.
Your baby’s ability to swallow is still developing, so it’s easier for them to choke. Keeping them upright reduces the risk of choking.
Some baby spoons have a rubber coating that makes them safer to use.
If you’re adding oatmeal to a bottle, the mixture should primarily contain formula. If it’s too thick, it will be hard for your baby to drink.
Mix water into powdered Similac formula. Dilute concentrated liquid Similac formula with water. Pour ready-to-feed Similac formula directly into the bottle.
You might add more oatmeal if your doctor says it’s okay. The maximum amount of oatmeal that you can add to a bottle is 1 tsp (2 g) of oatmeal per 1 tablespoon (15 mL) of formula.
You can purchase these nipples near the bottles at a baby store or online. Alternatively, make your own nipple by cutting across the hole. Keep the hole small because a big hole can cause choking. Be sure to wash the nipple thoroughly before you use it.
You don’t need to heat up the bottle. However, it’s okay to submerge it into hot water to warm up the thickened formula if your baby prefers it.
Dealing with reflux in babies can be stressful, so you probably want to try anything that might help. However, oatmeal might make it worse. Your doctor can help you figure out what will work best for your baby.
Feeding your baby solid foods too soon increases their risk of obesity, so be careful. Your doctor can help you decide if overfeeding is a concern for your baby. If your baby has struggled to keep food down, you may not need to worry about this.
After your baby turns 1, check with your doctor to find out when it’s safe to introduce honey.
If your baby responds well to the oatmeal and your doctor says it’s okay, you might try adding baby oatmeal to more meals.
Keep offering oatmeal to your baby at feedings until they start to willingly eat it. When your baby is ready, they’ll be interested in trying solid foods, including oatmeal.
