Newborns typically eat small amounts frequently throughout the day and night. Here is a detailed overview of how much and how often newborns eat:
Amount per Feeding
- In the first few days, newborns usually take about 0.5 to 1 ounce (15 to 30 milliliters) per feeding, especially when breastfeeding colostrum, the early milk
- By the end of the first week, they generally consume about 1 to 2 ounces (30 to 60 milliliters) per feeding
- At around 2 weeks, this increases to about 2 to 3 ounces (60 to 90 milliliters) per feeding
- By 1 month, newborns often take 3 to 4 ounces (90 to 120 milliliters) per feeding
- At 2 months, intake may increase to about 4 to 5 ounces (120 to 150 milliliters) every 3 to 4 hours
- By 4 to 6 months, babies typically consume 4 to 8 ounces (120 to 230 milliliters) per feeding, depending on age and feeding frequency
Frequency of Feeding
- Newborns usually feed every 2 to 3 hours, totaling about 8 to 12 feedings in 24 hours
- Feeding on demand-whenever the baby shows hunger cues-is recommended rather than strict scheduling
- In the first few weeks, parents may need to wake the baby to feed if they sleep longer than 4 to 5 hours
Daily Total Intake
- A general guideline for formula feeding is about 2.5 ounces per pound of the baby's body weight per day. For example, an 8-pound baby would need about 20 ounces daily
- Formula-fed babies tend to have more measurable intake, while breastfed babies' intake is gauged by feeding frequency and diaper output
Hunger Cues and Growth Spurts
- Babies may seem hungrier during growth spurts, which commonly occur around 1-2 weeks, 3-6 weeks, 4 months, and 6 months. During these times, feeding amounts and frequency may temporarily increase
In summary, newborns eat small amounts frequently, starting from about half an ounce per feeding in the first days, increasing to several ounces as they grow, with feeding every 2 to 3 hours. Parents should watch for hunger cues and feed on demand to ensure adequate nutrition
