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How Much Should Your Newborn Be Eating?
by Emma Hart
Updated: July 29, 2023
Originally Published: May 7, 2021
As a new parent, determining the right amount of food for your newborn can be quite challenging. Let’s face it—navigating parenthood brings its fair share of difficulties, and ensuring your little one is properly fed is paramount. Whether you’re opting for breastfeeding or formula feeding, the straightforward answer to how often you should feed your baby is: whenever they show signs of hunger. And when should you stop? When they appear satisfied. Yes, it’s a simple answer, but there’s more to consider.
Finding the average number of ounces that works for your baby during feedings will simplify your routine significantly. Remember, it’s normal for your baby to display varying levels of hunger. Additionally, being attuned to signs of overfeeding and recognizing cues that indicate when they’re hungry or full is crucial. We’ll explore these aspects further, but first, let’s look at those important feeding cues.
Feeding Cues
Newborns may seem like tiny, helpless creatures, but they are quite adept at communicating their hunger. Here are some cues to watch for:
- Licking their lips
- Sticking out their tongue
- Rooting (moving their jaw and mouth or turning their head in search of the breast)
- Repeatedly putting their fists to their mouths
- Opening their mouths
- Becoming fussy
- Sucking on anything within reach
Crying can indicate various needs, but if your baby is crying due to hunger, it signifies distress, making it harder for them to latch properly. To avoid a fussy baby, try to feed them before they become overtly upset.
How Often Do Newborns Eat?
Every baby is unique, so the feeding frequency will depend on your newborn’s individual needs. In the early days, they might require feedings every one to three hours. Although it feels frequent—especially when you crave longer sleep stretches—it’s essential for their nutrition and helps them practice sucking and swallowing. Plus, frequent feedings support your milk supply.
As weeks pass, the intervals between feedings typically extend to every two to four hours. Some babies may cluster feed, eating as often as every hour, while others might stretch their feedings to every four to five hours. Generally, babies will eat until they are satisfied.
Nighttime Feedings for Newborns
Though small, newborns require feeding around the clock, typically every two to three hours during the first few months. Expect to fit in one to three night feedings. As they approach six months, you can reduce this to one or two feedings at night. While sleep is crucial for your baby’s growth, it’s perfectly fine to wake them for nourishment until they reach a healthy weight.
How Many Ounces of Breastmilk Should a Newborn Consume?
For breastfeeding mothers, the chart below outlines how much to nurse based on your baby’s weight. However, always rely on their cues. Here are some general guidelines:
- 5 lbs: 12 oz
- 6 lbs: 14 oz
- 7 lbs: 17 oz
- 8 lbs: 19 oz
- 9 lbs: 22 oz
- 10 lbs: 24 oz
- 11 lbs: 26 oz
- 12 lbs: 29 oz
- 13 lbs: 31 oz
- 14 lbs: 34 oz
How Many Ounces of Formula Should a Newborn Consume?
For those using formula, the following chart indicates the typical amount of formula per feeding for infants aged 1 to 5 months, along with the number of feedings per 24 hours:
| Age | Amount of Formula per Feeding | Number of Feedings per 24 Hours |
|---|---|---|
| 1 month | 2 to 4 ounces | six to eight |
| 2 months | 5 to 6 ounces | five to six |
| 3 to 5 months | 6 to 7 ounces | five to six |
When to Stop Feeding Your Baby
Newborns will usually stop eating when they’re full, so avoid forcing them to continue feeding. Signs they’re done include closing their mouth, turning their head away, or showing decreased sucking. They may appear relaxed and content, possibly even falling asleep after a full feed.
Overfeeding can lead to discomfort, resulting in gas and increased spitting up. If you have any concerns, consult your pediatrician or a lactation specialist for guidance.
Why Is My Newborn Always Hungry?
Newborns may seem perpetually hungry due to their rapid growth. During the first few months, they experience growth spurts that require additional nourishment. Think of your baby as a teenager in their early growth phases—they need frequent meals to support their development.
Newborn Stomach Size: What You Should Know
Understanding how many ounces your newborn should consume is important, but knowing their stomach size at different stages is equally crucial. Here’s a breakdown of your newborn’s stomach size in their first two weeks:
- Day 1: Size of a marble
- Day 2: Size of a walnut
- Day 3: Size of a ping pong ball
- Day 7: Size of an apricot
- Day 10: Size of a large egg
For more information about pregnancy and home insemination, you can check out this excellent resource Healthline. If you’re interested in home insemination options, consider visiting Make a Mom for comprehensive kits. Additionally, for insights on IVF in Australia, explore this blog post to keep your knowledge up to date.
Summary
Feeding your newborn is a vital part of their development, and understanding their hunger cues and feeding schedules can ease the process. Remember, every baby is different, and being attuned to their needs will help create a more harmonious feeding experience.
Keyphrase: How much should a newborn eat
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