You are excited and full of love but as a new parent have no idea how to feed your baby. The fact is that a newborn’s feeding schedule in no easy task. In fact, it is a round the clock commitment that will require proper planning and timing. Additionally, feeding your baby is the perfect opportunity to understand and bond with your bundle of joy. Here are some tips that will come in handy for every parent wondering how to feed their new born baby:
It is advisable to stick to formula or breast milk at this stage
The best food for your baby is breast milk. This is because at this stage babies are still weak and need breast milk which is natural and highly nutritious. In rare circumstances when breastfeeding is not a possibility, the next best option is infant formula.
These are the two bet choices for a newborn. At this stage your bundle of joy does not need other fluids such as juice or water.
Feed the baby on demand
Most newborn babies require 8 to twelve feeding daily, typically 1 feeding every 2 or 3 hours. Some indications that your baby is hungry include stretching constantly, consistent lip movements and sucking motions and in some babies crying and fussing. Crying and fussing is an indication that they are extremely hungry. If you don’t want to struggle soothing a frantic baby, begin feeding as soon as you realize they are hungry.
When your newborn stops sucking on the nipple or bottle or just turns away, it is an indication that they are exhausted or need a break. At this juncture, burp the baby and wait for some time before giving them the bottle and breast again. You will realise that as the baby grows they drink less milk during a single feeding.
Talk to your doctor about Vitamin D supplements
Ask your pediatrician about using vitamin D supplements. This is particularly important if you are breastfeeding. According to numerous reliable studies, breast milk will not provide adequate vitamin D. Keep in mind that vitamin D is essential in helping your little one absorb more phosphorous and calcium which helps in the development of strong bones.
Variations in a baby’s feeding patterns are completely normal
New parents are worried about every slight change and most tend to run to the doctor. It is absolutely normal because your baby will not consume the same amount of food on a daily basis. During the growth spurt period which is typically between month 2 and 3 after delivery and again 6 weeks after giving birth, your baby will eat more. When they are in the growth spurt period, don’t obsess about the feeding schedule; instead respond to any indicators of hunger immediately.
feeding your baby is the perfect opportunity to understand and bond with your bundle of joy
Trust both your parental and newborn’s instinct
Most parents worry that perhaps their child is not eating enough. Most forget that their newborn just like an adult is a human being who gets full and get uncomfortable overfeeding. It is important not to obsess on how much your baby eats and how often they eat. Instead focus on reliable indicators that your new born is feding well, these include:
- Baby is steadily gaining weight
- Baby is content in between feeding sessions
- By the time they are 5 days old look out for at least 6 diaper wets and not less than 3 bowel movements daily
If you notice that your baby is not gaining weight, wets or soils fewer diapers or even demonstrates lack of interest in feeding, contact your doctor immediately.
Every feeding session should be considered a bonding opportunity with your bundle of joy
During every feeding session, hold your child closely but still ensure they are comfortable. Maintain eye contact with your newborn and then either speak or sing to them in a gentle and soothing voice. Consider each feeding a great opportunity to bond with your child and get to know them better. Keep in mind that every time you bond with your kid, you are giving them a sense of comfort, security and trust.
Know when to request for assistance
If a mother is having a difficult time breast-feeding, it is advisable to seek help from either a pediatrician or lactation expert. It is especially important to seek for assistance if you milk production level is low, you feel pain when breastfeeding and you baby is not steadily gaining weight. Most mother feel guilty for not being able to breastfeed. This should not be the case because all your baby needs to survive and thrive is a happy and healthy mother, if breastfeeding is not an option, your doctor will advise on the next best option which is typically formula.
If a mother is having a difficult time breast-feeding, it is advisable to seek help from either a pediatrician or lactation expert
Conclusion
A healthy baby is a happy baby, without proper feeding your baby will lose weight and their immune system will be compromised. With this tips at your finger tips there is no doubt you will get it right.
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