Moving On From Special Formula

Until now, your child has been getting all their “safe” protein from their special formula.

As they grow and their protein needs increase, they will need to move on to a new protein substitute that better meets their needs.

This is known as a second stage protein substitute. 

Second stage protein substitutes are usually a powder mixed with a small amount of water to form a semi-solid consistency.

Second stage protein substitutes are taken from a spoon, so they are a familiar texture to the weaning foods that your baby has already been introduced to.

A second stage protein substitute is more concentrated than the special formula they have been using and it allows your child to meet their “safe” protein needs in a much lower volume and thus have an appetite for the foods you are introducing them to.

This transition to a new protein substitute is important to meet all their nutritional requirements and is a gradual process. Your dietitian will advise you on this every step of the way.

Initially, when your child first starts to take a second stage protein substitute this will just be given as a taste before phe exchanges, phe-free foods and their special formula.

It is best to offer the second stage protein substitute when your child is most responsive and has an appetite, like when you started weaning. Initially, a small amount of the second stage protein substitute is taken just to get them used to the texture and taste. The amount of special formula taken will remain the same at this time.

However, as the amount of second stage protein substitute your child takes increases, the special formula will reduce. Your dietitian will walk you through this process and explain exactly what needs to be done and when. It is important to make sure that the second stage protein substitute is introduced either at the same time or before phe exchanges are introduced into the diet.

This is because if your child has already tasted and accepted natural protein from phe exchanges then they may reject the second stage protein substitute which will negatively affect their blood phe levels. 

1. As the amount of second stage protein substitute taken increases, the equivalent amount of “safe” protein from the special formula decreases. 

2. The second stage protein substitute is given before phe exchanges, phe-free foods and special formula to ensure it is taken whilst your child’s appetite and interest are at their highest. 

3. Water or other permitted drinks should be provided after your child takes their second stage protein substitute.