What is the Correct Way to Feed Your Newborn Baby?

 

Wondering whether you're feeding your newborn baby the right way is a common concern for first-time mummies. Babies require different amounts of food depending on their age, weight, and appetite, so feeling confused at first is definitely valid.

 

Feeding can be a wonderful time to get to know your child and develop a bond, but it’s a round-the-clock commitment. It might take time for you to get into the rhythm of feeding your baby, but trust us, it gets easier!

 

To help you, we’ve put together a quick guide on how to properly feed your newborn baby. First-time mums, read on below!

 

1. Choose between formula or breastmilk

 

There are lots of known benefits to breastfeeding a newborn. Apart from the reduced risks of sudden infant death syndrome, it helps lower your baby’s risk of getting infections now and in the future.

 

Breastmilk provides your baby with a tailor-made source of nutrients, and it adjusts according to the needs of your child’s body. It carries lasting benefits for their metabolism as well.

 

In sum, breastfeeding your baby for the first six months is the best option for their growth and health. However, deciding between breastmilk and formula is a personal decision for you to make.

 

There are reasons why some mummies choose not to breastfeed. Whatever the reason, it’s your right as the mother to choose how to feed your baby and there’s no need to feel guilty about your decision.

 

3. Feed on demand

 

Most newborns need at least eight to 12 feedings per day, which is about one feeding every two to three hours.

 

Your baby will let you know they’re hungry with feeding signs, but you have to know what these cues are. Common signs include sucking on fists and fingers, making murmuring sounds, lip smacking, turning their head and opening their mouth.

 

Fussing and crying are also signs of hunger, but watching out for these cues and feeding your little one before crying is easier than soothing a frantic baby.

 

Once your baby stops suckling or closes their mouth, that means they might be full or taking a break. Try waiting a minute or burping them before offering the bottle or your breast again.

 

At first, it might feel like you don’t do anything every day but feed your baby, but as they grow, their stomach will grow and there will be longer gaps in between feeding.

 

Soon enough, they will be needing a baby feeding chair to practice independent feeding

 

3. Expect variation in your baby’s feeding patterns

 

Following a feeding schedule can be convenient, but don’t expect your newborn baby to eat the same amount every day and at the same time.

 

During growth spurts, newborn babies might need to take more at each feeding and want to be fed more than usual. These usually happen during the second to third week after birth.

 

In the beginning, it helps to respond to your baby’s signs of hunger, instead of keeping your eyes glued to the clock to check if it’s time to feed them.

 

4. Use feeding time to bond with your baby

 

Whether your child is in your arms or already in a Baby feeding chair, take advantage of each feeding time to connect with your little bundle of joy and build their sense of security, trust, and comfort around you.

 

If breastfeeding, hold your newborn close to your body and let them feel your warmth. Look them in the eye and talk to them in a soft, gentle voice.

 

Engaging with your baby during feeding time will help them be comfortable around your presence!