Newborn Feeding

I think that we can all agree that newborn feeding is a very important issue. Practically every aspect of the baby's development is affected by newborn feeding. When we're talking about a newborn, we are usually referring to the age 0-4 weeks. At this very early stage, it is crucial to understand what you should and shouldn't do.

It turns out that the question of what newborn feeding consists of is very simple. You have only (and I mean only!) two options:

• Breastfeeding
• Formula feeding

Another semi option is bottle feeding with breast milk, but usually newborn feeding that relies on bottles consists mainly of formula and not breast milk.

It is important to understand that the baby's digestive system cannot handle anything but these 2 options. This is not the case just for newborn feeding but for baby food in general until the age of at least 4-6 months.

Breastfeeding is the recommened newborn feeding method by the AAP for at least the first 6 months. It's the best way to give the newborn the right combination of protein, fat and lactose. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals and contains antibodies that help protect from infectious diseases.

On the other, this is probably the most demanding newborn feeding method. It requires almost sole commitment from the mother. And newborn feeding being usually as frequent as every 2-4 hours - it's hard work. Not every woman can and should breastfeed. Remember that the mother's comfort is important and could reflect on the general care of the newborn.

Formula feeding is the good alternative for any newborn who is not breast fed. It has many nutrients that are good for babies and is easily made. A good advantage for a newborn feeding on formula is the fact that anyone can do it: mother, father, family members or friends helping out. It's a lot easier.

Did you know that one of the major differences between breast newborn feedings and formula newborn feedings are their digestive times? Formula is digested more slowly than breast milk, so less feedings are required.

You have to rememebr, though, that formula feeding requires good organization everytime you go out. A constant supply of clean bottles is also a must. And of course - formula is usually expensive.

The general rule for newborn feeding is based on demand. Let your baby "tell" you when he or she want to be fed. Usually it is every 1.5-3 hours, which means 8-12 times in a 24-hour period. Since formula digests more slowly than breast milk, it can be up to 4 hours between feedings.

But this are just numbers. Follow your baby's cues to adjust the right newborn feeding pattern for him or he. These cues could be opening the mouth, high alert and activity and rooting reflex (moving the mouth towards something touching the chick). Crying is also a sign for hunger, but it would be wise of you to search for earlier cues and not base your newborn feeding on crying.

How do you know the baby had enough? Obviously feeding your newborn with a bottle makes this easier to judge, but like hunger, the baby's signs and behavior tells you a lot. After a good newborn feeding the baby should be satisfied and relaxed, should wet the diapers around four to six times a day, sleep well and gain weight.

Most of what we discussed about newborn feeding will actually help you until the baby is 4-6 months old. Only then you'll test and see if the baby is ready for solid foods. And even then this will only start as a supplement for breast milk or formula.

^{This hub contains general and helpful information for you and your baby, but it is not a medical advice. Consult your doctor about any issue concerning your baby's health.}