Supplementing Formula?

Alexandra,
Some of the new literature suggests to stray away from soy because of its estrogen like qualities, especially for baby boys, unless the benefits outweigh the negatives. Unless your family eats a diet where cow's milk is not eaten, I would definitely use it (milk-based) first. Usually soy is used second, only if regular formulas don't "work", and even then, you can get goat milk formulas now too. See http://askdrsears.com/html/3/t032400.asp for info on goat's milk in general.

FYi-Good start is the best commercial formula as far as gentleness goes. My son is allergic/intolerant to casein, one of the components in milk protein. So, he could only drink Good Start because it has only whey proteins, or as they call them "comfort proteins". These are easier for kids to digest (per our GI dr) and it's the best formulation to use if your child is sensitive (gassy, etc.).

As far as the constipation...my son had that starting at about 5 wks. We tried the laxatives and rectal stimulation. Then, when I switched peds, the new one said to reserve those for times when the child has not gone for 7+ days and it is extremely severe. Another sign it's severe is blood from a tear and /or pebble-like stools. My new ped recommended 1 oz of prune juice (even apple juice works some times) each day. It really helped. My son did go 8 days once w/o pooping and it seemed so painful when he finally passed that one!!!

Good luck!
R.

You might want to research feeding your baby soy. It may not be the best for him. Also, the formula is not as pure as your breast milk therefore not as easily digested (i.e. - fewer poops and gas).

If you called our Pedi office w/ this question I would suggest trying a lactose free or Soy formula while you are supplementing. Many babies find these easier to digest.
As was already said the number of stools isn't important- it is if he is acting uncomfortable and straining a lot when he goes. If you notice this then you can try some rectal stimulation w/ a vaseline coated Q-tip. Different Pedis recommend different drinks to help, so check w/ your Pedi.
Hang in there!
Feel free to e-mail w/ any questions!
D.
____@____.com

You're doing great with the supplementation routine! Formula takes longer to digest and is fortified with iron - both reasons for less frequent bowel movements. Don't worry unless he goes several days without a BM and cries when he tries to go. At that point, it's still not a huge problem, but you'll want to help him get things moving. Your pediatrician can give you some advice on relieving constipation.
As far as the gassiness -- any formula can cause this. If he's been on it a week and still has problems, you might try the Good Start Soy. They process the proteins differently so it's easier to digest (a friend's baby had the same problem with other soy formulas, but not with Good Start). If you want to try milk-based, again go for the Good Start (though I just noticed that Walmart's Parent's Choice brand has come out with a "gentle" milk-based formula. Their brand is usually about $8-$10 a can cheaper than name brands).
You can usually get formula samples from your pediatrician's office. Call and speak to one of the nurses and see if they have any you can pick up.

Soy is usually an option for babies as a last resort (if they are allergic to breastmilk or other formula)... it From what I have researched, it could contribute to diary allergies later in life if used... of course I could be wrong. I would ask your pediatrition what he/she recommends and do a little research.