How Often Does a Bottle-Fed Infant Need to Eat?
Bottle-fed babies typically need to be fed every two to four hours, according to MedlinePlus, a website published by the National Institutes of Health. That said, since each infant is unique the frequency of formula feedings can vary. In the early days it's best to feed your formula-fed newborn on demand or whenever he cries because he’s hungry. As days turn into weeks your infant will settle into a more routine feeding schedule.
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Significance
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One to two ounces per “on demand” feeding is usually adequate during the first two or three days of a newborn's life. The amount of formula will quickly increase to two to three ounces every three to four hours. Starting around age two months a formula-fed infant will typically consume four ounces every four hours. The amount of formula will slowly increase until mid-year when the average infant drinks seven ounces of formula four to time times per day, explains HealthyChildren.org, a website published the American Academy of Pediatrics. Waking your newborn during the first month rather than let him sleep through a feeding is generally recommended. The majority of formula-fed infants can drop the overnight feeding by the time they weigh 12 pounds.
Signs of Hunger
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An infant may exhibit an assortment of behaviors intended to let you know he's ready for his bottle. Smacking or puckering his lips, sucking his fingers and moving his head from side to side as though he's looking around for the bottle nipple are among the most common signs that it's time to get the formula ready. Many new parents are unaware that a baby cries only as a last resort to express his hunger, points out KidsHealth.org, a website published by the Nemours Foundation.
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When Enough is Enough
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The vast majority of babies require no more than 36 ounces of formula in a 24-hour period to meet their nutritional needs. Five wet diapers per day is a good indicator that your infant is getting plenty of formula. Wiggling around and easily becoming sidetracked by something that peaks his interest during a feeding are sure bets that she has a full tummy. If she turns back to the bottle, it may be for its comforting effects rather than to meet unfulfilled hunger needs.
Considerations
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Your formula-fed baby should not be introduced to cow's milk until age one, notes MedlinePlus. Digesting cow's milk can be hard for younger babies. Even though some babies start eating solid food as early as four months, formula should continue to be the primary source of calories during the first year. Your infant will be weighed and measured at her well-baby checkups to make certain his rate of growth is on track.
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