Written by Editorial Team
The first year is always critical for the new baby. What will she eat, what will she wear, how to keep her safe, vaccinations… these are common questions all first-time parents ask. Food is, of course, very important because it is directly related to the development and the child’s growth. Babies breastfeeding will take between 8 and 12 feedings in a day. Those on formula foods will need between 6 and 10 feeds a day. Usually, solid foods will be introduced when the baby is around 6 months. Always remember, nutrition is key in the 1st year. Make sure to start a healthy eating habit quickly for your infant. But the feeding must always depend on the readiness of a child because every baby is different.
They are still very small, but they can know when feeling full or hungry. Feed her whenever she feels hungry. Each breastfeeding session is usually between 10-15 minutes. Formula and breastfeeding can be done deep into the night as well if the infant wakes up and cries because she is feeling hungry. Some parents add rice cereals to the bottle to make the baby sleep through the night. This is not recommended because it can easily cause too much weight gain. It may also cause choking hazards.
Infants will drink less as they start taking solid foods. It is perfectly normal, so don’t worry. Solid foods should be increased slowly while bringing down the formula or the quantity of breastmilk. Don’t make a 100 percent switch overnight.
Many moms are increasingly opting for formula feeding now as it offers several advantages. For example, she can take medicines if required, she can know exactly how much she is consuming, and both parents and others in the family can also share the responsibility. She has carried her baby for 40 weeks. With formula feeding, she can finally take a break and get back to her normal pre-pregnancy days. There is no problem with formula feeding. There are many high-quality formula products now like the HIPP Dutch formula that provides all key nutrition to the infant.
Infants will cry for various reasons like when feeling tired when they are upset or hungry, or when you must change the diaper, or are feeling uncomfortable. There will be many signs of hunger, like –
Infants will get upset if the parents miss the hunger cues. She will cry or become fussy. So the parents must be careful. Try to identify her hunger cues.
Signs that will tell you that the infant is full –
Some doctors and pediatricians say that solid foods must be introduced when the infant is around 6 months. But, if the infant is taking both formula and breastmilk, then you may start solids even before this – anytime between 4 and 6 months.
Signs that will tell you whether your child is ready or not –
Remember these guidelines during infant feeding.
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