How Should I Wean My Baby Off Formula And Onto Cow's Milk?

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How should I wean my baby off formula and onto cow's milk?

Medically reviewed by Harriet Gibbs, Health visitor Polly Logan-Banks

Written by Polly Logan-Banks

If you're formula-feeding your baby, it's best to switch to full-fat cow's milk when she turns one. You can give her food made with cow's milk from six months, to help her get used to the taste. But don't offer it as a main drink until her first birthday.If your baby is already over one and still drinking formula, don't worry. Just make the switch as soon as you feel comfortable.

Advertisement | page continues belowThere's no need to give your baby follow-on formula or growing-up formula. You can switch straight from first infant formula to cow's milk. Always opt for full-fat cow's milk, rather than skimmed or semi-skimmed, as this contains more of the calories and vitamins your baby needs. Your baby's first birthday is also the perfect time to switch from a bottle to a cup, if you haven't already done so. You may prefer to switch from bottle to cup before you change from formula to cow's milk, or at the same time. There's no right way, it's just a matter of finding out what works for your family.Some babies are perfectly happy to switch from formula to cow's milk, but others need a bit of time to get used to the transition. If your toddler refuses to drink cow's milk, you could try mixing equal parts formula and cow's milk. Then, over time, you can gradually increase the proportion of cow's milk until that's all she's drinking.Be sure to offer your little one plenty of encouragement whenever she does take a taste of cow's milk. Tell her that cow's milk is a drink for big girls and boys, and show her how proud you are that she's being so grown-up.It's also a good idea to let her see you and other members of the family drinking cow's milk, and making a big deal about how much you like it. You are your child's role model, and she'll probably love the chance to copy you.If your toddler really won't drink cow's milk, no matter what you do, try not to worry. Make sure she's getting plenty of dairy products, such as yoghurt and cheese in her diet. This will help her get all the calcium she needs. Keep offering cow's milk from time to time, and eventually she may decide she likes it after all.If you're worried that your little one isn't getting enough fluids, read up on the signs of dehydration. If you have any concerns, talk to your GP or health visitor.Advertisement | page continues below It’s worth noting that, once your child is having less than 500ml of formula per day, she'll need to take a daily supplement that contains the vitamins A, C and D. This will help to make sure she's getting the nutrients she needs, even when she's having a fussy day.More tips and advice:

Discover the benefits of cow's milk.
See our expert tips on making the change from bottle to cup.
Get the lowdown on vitamins for babies and toddlers.
See the best sippy cups, as chosen by BabyCentre parents

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Polly Logan-BanksPolly Logan-Banks is an experienced editor with a keen interest in producing evidence-based content. Polly is passionate about ensuring that every child gets the best start in life. Opens a new window Opens a new window Opens a new window