Newborn Feeding: How to Ensure Proper Nutrition for Your Baby. how to ensure proper nutrition for your newborn while breastfeeding, breast milk vs. formula, hunger cues, and burping, and some FAQs for Parents.
Newborn Feeding: How to Ensure Proper Nutrition for Your Baby
Welcoming a new baby into your life is an
exciting and life-changing experience. As a new parent, you want to make sure
that your little one is healthy, happy, and well-nourished. One of the most
important aspects of caring for a newborn is ensuring that they are getting the
right nutrition. The first few weeks of your baby's life can be an exciting and
challenging time for new parents. As you get to know your newborn, one of the
most important things to focus on is their nutrition. We'll cover the
recommended amount of milk that newborns should consume, and how to make sure
they're getting the nutrients they need to grow and develop.
How much should a newborn eat?
Newborns have very small stomachs, and they
need to eat frequently to get the nutrients they need to grow. On average, a
newborn will need to eat every two to three hours, which works out to about
8-12 feedings a day. During each feeding, your baby will consume around 1-3
ounces of milk, depending on their size and appetite. Over the first few days,
your baby's appetite will likely increase as they adjust to its new
surroundings.
Breastfeeding vs. formula feeding
There are two main ways to feed your newborn:
breast milk and formula. Both options can provide your baby with the nutrition
they need, but there are some key differences to consider.
Breast milk is the most natural and beneficial
food for your baby. It provides all the nutrients they need to grow and develop,
and it can help protect them from infections and illnesses. Breastfeeding also
promotes bonding between you and your baby. If you choose to breastfeed, it's
important to make sure you're eating a healthy, balanced diet and staying
hydrated.
The formula is an alternative to breast milk
that can provide your baby with the nutrition they need if you are unable to
breastfeed or choose not to. The formula is made from a blend of nutrients that
mimic the composition of breast milk, so your baby can still get the nutrition
they need to grow and develop.
How to feed your newborn
Whether you're breastfeeding or formula
feeding, there are some important things to keep in mind when it comes to
feeding your newborn.
Make sure your baby is positioned correctly: Whether
you're breastfeeding or formula feeding, it's important to make sure your baby
is positioned correctly during feedings. Your baby should be facing your breast
or the bottle, with their head and neck supported.
Watch for hunger cues: Your baby will let you
know when they're hungry by rooting, sucking on their fists, or making sucking
noises. Try to feed your baby before they start crying, as this can make it
harder for them to latch onto the breast or bottle.
Burp your baby: After each feeding, it's
important to burp your baby to help release any air trapped in its stomach.
This can help prevent discomfort and spitting up.
Conclusion
Feeding your newborn is one of the most
important things you can do to ensure they grow and develop properly. By
following the recommendations outlined in this article, you can make sure your
baby is getting the nutrition they need to thrive. Remember to feed your baby
frequently, watch for hunger cues, and make sure they're positioned correctly
during feedings. Whether you choose to breastfeed or formula feed, your baby
will be getting the nutrition they need to grow into a healthy, happy child.
Newborn Feeding: FAQs for Parents
When it comes to feeding your newborn, it's normal
to have many questions. Here are some frequently asked questions and answers
about feeding your baby:
Q: Should I wake my baby for feedings?
A: Once your baby has gained back their birth
weight and is feeding every three to four hours during the day, there's no need
to wake a sleeping baby. However, if your baby is dozing off during feedings,
try undressing them slightly, tickling their feet or patting their bottom to
keep them awake and on task.
Q: Is my baby eating too much?
A: While babies are naturally aware of when
they're hungry and full, it's possible for adults to overfeed them, especially
with a bottle. Look for signs that your baby is full, such as turning their
head or pushing the bottle away. Don't worry if your baby doesn't finish every
last drop. To avoid overfeeding, put no more than a half-ounce more than you
expect your baby to eat at each feeding in a bottle. Pause halfway through the
bottle, burp your baby, and see if they actually want more.
Q: Should I worry if my baby is losing weight?
A: It's normal for newborns to lose weight in
the first few days of life, up to 7 to 10 percent is considered acceptable.
However, if your baby isn't getting enough calories, you may notice a lag in
their growth. Contact your pediatrician if your baby has a fever, is lethargic,
refusing to eat or vomiting a lot in between feedings, isn't urinating at least
every four to six hours, or if their urine is very concentrated (dark yellow).
Remember to pay attention to your baby's hunger
cues, whether you're breastfeeding or bottle-feeding. And always make sure to
burp your baby to avoid discomfort and gas. With time, you'll learn to
understand your baby's needs and preferences when it comes to feeding and
nutrition.
Sources:
1.
American Academy of Pediatrics. (2012). Breastfeeding and the use of
human milk. Pediatrics, 129(3), e827-e841.
2.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020). Infant Feeding.
Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/breastfeeding/index.htm
3.
The Leche League International. (2021). The Womanly Art of
Breastfeeding. 8th Edition. New York: Penguin Random House LLC.