A pediatrician with Longstreet Clinic has urged parents to avoid making baby formula at home as the nation faced a baby formula shortage.
Dr. Saima Hussain told AccessWDUN that homemade formula can be dangerous for infants.
“There can be contamination, it can be bacteria related,” Dr. Hussain said. “There’s a very specific combination of protein, carbohydrates and electrolytes that babies have to have, and it’s hard to kind of do that in your own kitchen. It can lead to consequences that can send infants to the hospital.”
Dr. Hussain said diluting formula can also be dangerous, as it may lead to dehydration if given to a child.
Formula is essential for many infants, as it gives them many specific nutritional needs, according to Dr. Hussain. Infants should either be given formula or breast milk, which is why the current shortage has caused concern in many parents.
Dr. Hussain said if you find formula at the store, but it is not what your baby typically uses, it could be worth making the switch.
“If your baby does not have a specific medical diagnosis, it’s OK to switch to a different brand of formula,” Dr. Hussain said. “You can switch between Similac, Enfamil or a different brand. It’s OK to also use store brand formulas. Walmart, Costco have their own brand of formula.”
If the baby has allergies or specific medical needs, Dr. Hussain recommended talking to a pediatrician.
Those struggling to find formula can also check online for FDA-approved products, according to Dr. Hussain.
Dr. Hussain said many of her patients and parents are struggling to find formula during the shortage.
“We’re getting calls almost on a daily basis,” Dr. Hussain said. “As patients and parents are having a really hard time they’re going to multiple stores … it’s heartbreaking.”
