Reducing bottle feeds for 7 month old?

[SalsaMama]

Hi Karen,

My 7 month old son had always been a shocking feeder. He has a feeding aversion (mainly with bottles) as a result of prolonged issues with silent reflux. It is a bit of an issue as he is fully formula fed.

He's on 3 meals of solids a day at the moment, and really enjoying these. His milk feeds have been getting more and more difficult, and his volume has been decreasing. I wasn't sure if the solids were filling him up too much so I cut right back on them and it didn't make a difference. His last bottle of the day is the worst.

Is it likely that he's ready to drop a bottle? I thought milk was the most important nutritional source until 12 months, so have been reluctant to do this yet. What do you think?

Also, is there a guide for how much milk he should be drinking a day at 7 months?

Thanks.

[KarenInge]

HI Jensen, generally speaking at 7 months most babies are on 3-5 feeds a day and about 250 mls each feed. The aim really is to gradually increase the texture and quantity of soild food at each meal and snack and at the same time gradually decrease the volume of formula feed by 12 months of age.You really need to take cues from your baby to see which feed to drop and you can compensate for fluids by offering foods with a high fluid content like yoghourts, custards, juicy fruits, soups and jelly.You want to watch out for dehydration or constipation which are often indicators that the baby isn't getting enough fluid.If you are concerned, it may be wise to see an experienced dietitian.