What should I do if my three-month-old baby refuses formula milk and only eats rice porridge?
Disease description:
My baby is just three months old and has suddenly stopped drinking formula milk, only wanting to eat rice porridge. Could this affect the baby's development? What should I do?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhou Xiaofeng
The digestive system of a three-month-old baby has not yet fully matured, so breast milk or formula should be the primary food source at this stage. If a baby suddenly refuses to take formula but accepts rice cereal, it may be due to a preference for the taste or texture of rice cereal, or improper feeding methods such as an unsuitable nipple, which may cause the baby to resist taking formula.
However, relying on rice cereal too early may lead to unbalanced nutrition and affect the baby's growth and development, as rice cereal mainly provides carbohydrates, while formula contains various nutrients including proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals.
Firstly, check the nipple and try changing to different sizes or types to simulate the feeling of breastfeeding. Adjust the feeding posture to make the baby more comfortable while consuming formula. You may feed the baby formula first when the baby is hungry, followed by rice cereal. Do not force the baby to eat to avoid developing a negative association.
If the baby continues to refuse formula, it is recommended to consult a pediatrician.
