Note: The following recommendations are for full term, normal weight babies. If your baby was born early and/or very small, recommendations may vary, and will be discussed by your provider.
For the first 4-6 months infants should only eat formula or breastmilk.
When to feed
Newborns should feed approximately every 2-3 hours, 8-12 times per day. As babies grow, some are eventually able to space feedings to every 3-4 hours. Length of feeds may also decrease as babies grow and become more efficient feeders.
Hunger cues are the best indication that your baby is ready for their next feed. Common hunger cues include lip smacking, sticking their tongue out, rooting (turning their head to the side with mouth open – looking for a nipple), sucking on their hands, and/or fussiness.
How much to feed
Feed volumes vary significantly by age and baby. In the early days, most babies will take 1-2oz per feed. Over the course of the first month, many babies increase to 3-4 oz per feed. By 6 months, some babies are taking up to 8oz per feed. Total feed volume varies by infant and may change with growth spurts or illness. The standard volume of breastmilk or formula per day 24-32oz.
Supplements
Vitamin D is recommended for all exclusively breastfed babies. If your baby is combo fed (breastmilk and formula) talk to your provider about if supplementation is recommended.
Iron supplementation may be recommended depending on your child’s age and how they are fed. Please talk to your provider prior to giving any iron supplements.
Frequent feeding concerns
Hiccups are very common and typically not painful or bothersome to infants. Burping can help hiccups resolve.
Spit up is very normal! Babies who are growing well and not significantly bothered by spit up do not need any treatment. For babies who are bothered by spit up, but are growing well, we typically recommend trying smaller more frequent feeds, burping a few times per feed and keeping babies upright for at least 20 minutes after feeds before considering additional interventions.
Spit up may be a sign of a bigger problem if your baby is extremely fussy for prolonged periods, is refusing to feed or constantly arching their back and crying with feeds. Additionally, increased frequency and intensity of spit up can indicate other problems.
Additional Resources
https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/feeding-nutrition/Pages/how-often-and-how-much-should-your-baby-eat.aspx#:~:text=By%20the%20end%20of%20the,added%20to%20a%20baby's%20diet.
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/infant-and-toddler-health/in-depth/healthy-baby/art-20047741