As a new parent, you may find yourself wondering how much milk your baby should be consuming. Don't worry - you're not alone! This article will delve into the recommended mL intake for an 8-day-old baby.
What to Expect
By day eight, your little one's stomach is slightly larger than it was at birth and can now hold around 1-2 ounces of breastmilk or formula per feeding. It's important to note that every baby is different and some may require more or less than this amount.
Frequency of Feedings
Babies this age typically feed between 8-12 times per day, which averages out to every two hours or so. Yes, that means around the clock! But hey, parenting is all about sacrifices (and caffeine).
Pro tip: Keep track of each feeding on a notepad or app until you get the hang of things.
Breastfeeding vs Formula Feeding
Whether breastfeeding or bottle-feeding with formula, it's crucial that your newborn gets enough nourishment throughout the day!
Breastfed babies are able to control their own intake better as they have more frequent access to food (momma!). On average though, they consume approximately 500-600 mL in any given day during week one.
Formula-fed babies tend to take in larger quantities at fewer intervals than infants who are breastfed but expel waste less frequently (think poops). They need roughly 480-520 mL daily over seven-to-eight feeds which includes overnight time too.
Don’t forget: You might switch between both methods depending on what fits best with yours and baba’s lifestyle pattern 👍🏻
Bottle Sizes & Nipple Flow Rate
If using bottles try switching up nipple flow rates based on infant’s preference -- ones marked with “slow-flow” or "ultra-slow flow" are great for beginner eaters.
Most companies sell bottles in a 2, 4 or even bigger capacity. The article suggests starting with the smaller size to ensure proper intake count and reduce wastage.
Alleviating Feeding Times Struggles: Signs That Your Baby is Hungry
If you have trouble deciphering when your baby's hunger signs pop up - we've got you covered! Here are some common indications that your little one needs nourishing:
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Root reflex (smells milk/hands out)
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Which Turns to crying / fussiness (disclaimer: often misinterpreted as colic)
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Moving their mouth repetitively like they're chewing gum
Pro tip: Signs of fullness include generally slowing down and/or moving away from the nipple.
Keeping an Eye on Weight Gain
Now we know how much our mini-version-human-being should be consuming per day, let’s take a look at weight gain next 👀.
It's essential that your newborn gains approximately 0.5 –1 ounce per day, though this could differ slightly based on each individual baba (our offspring)!
Keep regular check-ups with both pediatrician & midwifes too who can guide through any concerns if there seem to be issues in meeting needs 🏥👨⚕️
Warning Sign — Decreased Wet Diapers / More Serious Symptoms
Some babies might face underlying medical conditions which cannot attention without immediate detection/ intervention - Adverse symptoms such as decreased urination/a change in bowel movement patterns/abnormal social behaviour etc should not go unnoticed get emergency help!
Make note of any possible abnormality by documenting them regularly — so as soon ast anything suspicious crops up you can immediately consult an expert ✌🏽
Common Mistakes to Avoid
As first time parents–only human– it’s only natural to make small errors in judgement along the way. But here are a few common mistakes that can be avoided with some foresight:
Overfeeding / Oversupply issues
It might seem counterintuitive, but overfeeding your newborn little by little can lead to uncomfortable feelings (hellooo gas 💨) and oversupplying which could later dissuade from breastfeeding completely
Being mindful of routine-guided feeding either through breast or formula mediums should help you gauge better how much is “just enough” for proper growth.
Pro Tip: Use pump-specific manuals online/ read up on local lactation experts who offer consultations / research bottle sterilization ad serivices instead of buying unnecessary equipment!
Feedtime Distractions
Another thing to note is avoid being too distracted during feed time--TV/internet surfing will not only take away precious bonding time when baba's most alert but also interrupt crucial production signals/control.
Conclusion
Feeding an 8-day-old baby may seem daunting at first, but remember that as long as they're gaining weight and filling those wet diapers, then things are going great! Just keep track of feeds and discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider.
Good luck new mom & dad — yet above all, don't fret about perfect adherence -- enjoy this special cuddle/suckle/snuggle/little poop-diaper change bond between you two ❤️... It doesn’t lasts forever!