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Friday, July 26, 2013

The Formula

Thuglet has been plateauing in the weight department and it makes me anxious. Pretty much everything makes me anxious when it comes to Thuglet, especially breastfeeding. I have always been concerned that I am not producing enough milk for my boy. Since I don't pump and feed I can never be sure exactly how much he is eating. Before he turned 5 months he was gaining weight fairly consistently but it has come to a stand still. Also, summer vacation is coming to an end quickly and I cannot be super stressed out about pumping when I return to work. The only other indication that Thuglet might now be getting his fill during the day was his frequent night feedings. He was still waking up 2 to 4 times a night and eating.

Starting formula was a big decision for me. I wanted to exclusively breastfeed until Thuglet was 6 months old and then I would reevaluate the situation. Life doesn't always work the way you want it. I want my son to eat enough during the day to keep him happy and allow him to sleep more at night. He will be happier with more food and more sleep. So will I! It has been almost 6 months since I have slept for more than five hours in a row and it is starting to take its toll.

We ordered Earth's Best Formula from Amazon and waited for its arrival. My strategy for Thuglet was to feed him a few ounces throughout the day and supplement the breast milk that he was already receiving. The formula arrived a couple of days ago. My fears of him rejecting it were completely unfounded and he drank it down like a champ.
First time with formula
Loves watching Baby Signing Time while he eats.
After one full day of supplementing (about 3 two ounce bottles) he slept five hours straight, which is the longest stretch he has gone in a long time. After two days of supplementing, Thuglet slept seven and half hours. I couldn't believe it! Finally we are getting somewhere. I am interested to see if my theory about his nutritional intake was the reason for his multiple nighttime feedings and so far it is looking good. Along with the sleeping we have also seen a weight increase. Although it wasn't my original plan to give formula I think it is the best thing I could do for my little dude.
Feeling good after a full nights sleep.

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