features
quizzes experts
If you've chosen to bottlefeed, you'll want to choose
the best formula for your child--a regular formula or perhaps soy
or a hydrolysate variety. Learn what to look for and how to prepare
and use it safely.
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Your
Newborn's Eating Habits
Find out if your newborn is meeting his nutritional needs.
It's not
unusual for new parents to be concerned about their baby's weight
gain. If you're worried that your newborn isn't eating enough, here
are some things to keep in mind when gauging your baby's eating habits.
1. All newborns lose some weight in the first few days after birth.
This is a result of the baby shedding extra fluid. Although a baby
may lose as much as 10 percent of her birth weight in the first week
with no harmful effects, she should regain the weight by the end of
the second week of life.
2. If you're
bottlefeeding, it's easy to tell whether baby is eating enough. You
have the opportunity to measure out formula for her daily feedings.
3. If you're
breastfeeding, the amount she's drinking may be difficult to gauge.
But rest assured: The breast milk your baby receives in the first
few days after delivery is both nutritionally and calorically rich
(and full of antibodies that help protect her from infection).
4. Three to four
days after delivery, you can tell if your baby is eating enough by
checking her diapers. She should have about six to eight wet diapers
a day. If you're using disposables it can be hard to tell because
they're so absorbent; put a tissue inside the diaper to check for
wetness.
5. In the first
month, a breastfeeding baby should pass at least three stools a day.
She may have a bowel movement each time she nurses. Normal stools
are soft and yellowish.
6. A bottlefed
baby may have fewer bowel movements than a nursing newborn. The color
can range from yellow to brownish green; they're soft as well, but
usually better formed than the stools of a breastfed baby.
7. If your baby
is steadily gaining weight and appears content after feedings, then
she's getting enough to eat. If you're still worried, check with your
pediatrician or a lactation consultant.
Your
should know:
The
information on this Web site is designed for educational purposes
only. It is not intended to be a substitute for informed medical
advice or care. You should not use this information to diagnose
or treat any health problems or illnesses without consulting your
pediatrician or family doctor. Please consult a doctor with any
questions or concerns you might have regarding your or your child's
condition.
Rebornne Baby. American Baby
