Is My Baby Getting Enough to Eat?
How to recognize proper feeding and signs of hunger/fullness
Pediatric note: The AAP states adequate weight gain and 6+ wet diapers daily after day 5 are the best indicators of sufficient intake.
Recognizing Proper Nutrition
New parents often worry about feeding adequacy. According to lactation and pediatric experts:
- Stomach size starts at cherry (day 1), grows to walnut (day 3), then apricot (1 week)
- Colostrum (first milk) is measured in teaspoons but packed with nutrients
- Healthy newborns may lose up to 7-10% birth weight before gaining
- Feeding cues matter more than strict schedules
Key fact: Babies need about 2.5 oz of milk per pound of body weight daily (150-200ml/kg). Watch the baby, not the clock!
Signs of Good Feeding
Breastfed Babies
Positive Signs:
- 8-12 feedings per day
- Audible swallowing sounds
- Breasts feel softer after feeding
- Baby seems content after meals
Warning Signs:
- Fewer than 6 wet diapers daily
- Dark yellow urine
- Fussiness after feeding
Formula-fed Babies
Positive Signs:
- 6-8 feedings per day
- Taking 2-3 oz per feeding (newborn)
- Steady weight gain
- Regular bowel movements
Warning Signs:
- Leaving over 1 oz consistently
- Spitting up large amounts
- Crying during feeds
Weight Gain Expectations
| Age | Expected Gain | Feeding Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0-3 months | 5-7 oz (140-200g) per week | Every 2-3 hours | Birth weight should double by 4-5 months |
| 4-6 months | 4-5 oz (110-140g) per week | Every 3-4 hours | May start solids around 6 months |
| 7-12 months | 2-3 oz (60-85g) per week | 4-5 bottles/day + solids | Breastmilk/formula still primary nutrition |
Diaper Output Guide
Day 1
Sticky black stools
Days 2-3
Transitional greenish stools
Days 4-5
Yellow seedy stools (breastfed)
Week 2+
Pale yellow or tan stools
Recognizing Hunger & Fullness
Early Hunger Cues
- Smacking or licking lips
- Rooting (turning head with open mouth)
- Bringing hands to mouth
- Increased alertness
- Sucking motions
Fullness Signals
- Slowing or stopping sucking
- Turning head away
- Closing mouth
- Relaxed hands and body
- Falling asleep contentedly
Late hunger cue: Crying is a late sign! Try to feed before this stage. A too-hungry baby may struggle to latch.
When to Seek Medical Help
| Symptom | Urgency Level |
|---|---|
| Fewer than 6 wet diapers after day 5 | Call pediatrician immediately |
| No weight gain by 2 weeks | Same-day evaluation needed |
| Extreme sleepiness (won't wake to feed) | Emergency evaluation |
| Sunken soft spot or dry mouth | Urgent medical attention |
Common Feeding Questions
Q: How do I know if my baby is swallowing milk?
Listen for soft 'kuh' sounds every 1-3 sucks. Watch for jaw movement to ears and brief pauses while swallowing.
Q: Is cluster feeding normal?
Yes! Especially evenings for breastfed babies. It boosts supply and satisfies growth spurts (common at 2-3 weeks, 6 weeks).
Q: Should I wake a newborn to feed?
Yes, every 2-3 hours until regained birth weight (usually by 2 weeks). Then can follow baby's cues if gaining well.