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How Much Milk Formula To Feed Baby
By Martha Sanders
Many new mothers are unsure about how much milk formula to feed babies. To answer that question, you have to understand that babies are individuals with different metabolic rates, different caloric needs and different biologic clocks.
There is no mathematical formula you can follow. So, the advice is to use your instincts. It is best you remain flexible and let your baby’s appetite guide the amount he needs.
There is no need to coax your baby to finish a bottle or stop him if he still appears hungry. Babies eat when they are hungry and stop when they are full; babies may be hungrier than usual during growth spurts or may eat less when they feel unwell.
In general, babies eat about eight to twelve times every 24 hours. Since breast milk is easier to digest, breastfed babies will eat more frequently than formula fed babies. Babies on formulas tend to eat around every three or four hours.
If you are using formula for a baby younger than 4 to 6 months, the rule of thumb
is to offer him 2½ ounces of formula per pound of body weight in 24 hours. For example,
if your baby weighs 6 pounds, you will feed him about 2½ x 6 = 15 ounces of formula
in a 24-
Regardless of which milk you use to feed, you will know your baby is having “enough” if he wets six to eight diapers and passes stool at least three times each 24 hours for the first four to six weeks.
He should be satisfied after a feeding, and wake at regular intervals to be fed again.
Spitting up formula at the end of the feed usually indicates your baby had more than his stomach can hold. However if it persists, discuss with your pediatrician.
Always keep in mind that once a feeding bottle enters your baby’s mouth, any leftover formula in that bottle must be discarded after the feeding to prevent bacterial growth and breakdown of nutrients.
How much formula your baby needs also depends on his age. Most newborns want to be fed every 2 to 3 hours, and about 1 or 2 ounces at each feeding for the first week (up to 2 to 4 ounces when he reaches 1 month old).
As your baby gets older, he will drink fewer bottles a day but with more formula in each. For example, your baby may be drinking six to eight bottles of 4 to 6 ounces each every 24 hours.
By the time he's 6 months old, your baby is likely to drop to four or five bottles of 6 or 7 ounces each.
Find out how to pick a baby formula, and what ingredients are found in different formulas.
Caring for Baby Skin on a Budget
Learn how to care and protect your baby's skin from rashes and common skin conditions for less money.
5 Clever Ways to Save Money on Baby Diapers
Find out how you can save money on baby diapers or even get baby diapers for free.
Money-
Learn practical advice and ideas on how to save money on baby stuff.
10 Tips to Lose Pregnancy Weight Fast
A look at some safe and easy ways which you can use in your everyday life to help you lose pregnancy weight fast and naturally.
What to Do about Post Pregnancy Hair Loss
Post pregnancy hair loss leave mothers feeling depressed about their appearance. Find out why your hair falls out and what you can do about it.
How to Treat Baby Colic Naturally
Natural homemade remedies to treat and prevent baby colic and what you can do to calm a crolicky baby.
How to Whiten Yellowed Baby Clothes
Conventional laundry detergents can irritate your baby's skin. Discover effective ways to get rid of stains and whiten yellowed baby clothes safely.
Make your own baby food and take control of your baby's nutrition with these easy-
How to Make Homemade Baby Wipes
Step-
How to Make Baby Sock Rose Bouquet
A baby sock bouquet makes an affordable yet stylish gift for a mom-
