How Much Should a Newborn Really Eat?

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By: Maria Thompson

Updated: July 29, 2021

Originally Published: May 7, 2021

As a new parent, determining how much to feed your newborn can feel overwhelming. Let’s face it: parenting comes with its challenges, and getting feeding right is crucial. Whether you choose breastfeeding or formula, the straightforward answer to how often you should feed your baby is simply: whenever they show signs of hunger. And when should you stop? When they seem satisfied. Yes, it’s that simple and a bit frustrating!

While these quick answers are what you may find through a quick online search or from baby experts, there’s certainly more to consider. It’s beneficial to establish how many ounces of milk are appropriate for your baby during an average feeding and maintain that guideline until they need more. Keep in mind that fluctuations in appetite are completely normal. It’s also essential to recognize signs of overfeeding and to be aware of the cues that signal when your baby is hungry or full. We’ll touch on that shortly, but first, let’s explore those feeding cues.

Feeding Cues

Newborns may seem like tiny creatures that need everything done for them, but they are quite adept at communicating their hunger. Here are some signs to look for:

Licking their lips
Sticking out their tongue
Rooting (moving their jaw or head in search of the breast)
Bringing their fist to their mouth repeatedly
Opening their mouth
Fussiness
Sucking on anything available

Babies cry for various reasons, but if the crying is due to hunger, it indicates distress, making it more challenging for them to latch on and feed. While it’s easier said than done, try to feed your baby before they become too upset to avoid a cranky little one (who can blame them?).

Feeding Frequency for Newborns

Every baby is unique, so how often you feed your newborn will vary based on their individual needs. In the first few days, your baby may want to eat every one to three hours. This might feel overwhelming—especially when you’re craving more than two hours of sleep at a time—but it’s vital for their growth and helps them practice sucking and swallowing. Frequent feedings can also boost your milk supply.

As the weeks and months progress, the intervals between feedings typically lengthen, with most babies wanting to eat every two to four hours. Some may experience cluster feeding, needing to eat as often as every hour to fill their bellies, while others may sleep longer stretches and only require feeding every four to five hours. Generally, babies will eat until they’re satisfied.

Nighttime Feedings

Though newborns are small, they require around-the-clock nourishment. During the first few months, expect to feed them every two to three hours, which means you’ll likely have one to three night feedings. As they grow, around six months, you can reduce this to one or two nighttime feedings. While sleep is crucial for a baby’s development, it’s perfectly fine to wake your little one to eat. Once they have reached a healthy weight, you can let them wake you when they’re hungry.

Amount of Breastmilk for Newborns

If you’re breastfeeding, you can refer to the chart below to estimate how much to nurse based on your baby’s weight. However, always follow their individual cues.

5 lbs: 12 oz
6 lbs: 14 oz
7 lbs: 17 oz
8 lbs: 19 oz
9 lbs: 22 oz
10 lbs: 24 oz
11 lbs: 26 oz
12 lbs: 29 oz
13 lbs: 31 oz
14 lbs: 34 oz

Amount of Formula for Newborns

For formula-fed babies, the chart below outlines typical feeding amounts for infants aged 1 to 5 months. Always consult your pediatrician if you’re uncertain.

1 month: 2 to 4 ounces, six to eight feedings
2 months: 5 to 6 ounces, five to six feedings
3 to 5 months: 6 to 7 ounces, five to six feedings

Knowing When to Stop Feeding

Newborns usually won’t continue eating once they are full, so it’s crucial to avoid forcing the breast or bottle if they show signs of being done. Indicators include closing their mouth, turning away, or relaxing their bodies. If they’re overfed, they may swallow excess air, leading to gas and discomfort. An overfed baby might also spit up more frequently and have looser stools.

If you need guidance on breastfeeding or feeding your newborn, don’t hesitate to reach out to your pediatrician or a lactation consultant for support.

Why Does My Newborn Seem Constantly Hungry?

Sometimes, newborns can appear insatiable, reminiscent of The Hungry Caterpillar. Their bodies are undergoing rapid changes, and it’s essential for them to gain weight during the early months. Newborns experience multiple growth spurts, demanding a lot of nutrients and milk. Think of them as a teenager in need of constant nourishment to support their growth.

Newborn Stomach Size

Understanding how many ounces a newborn can consume is just the beginning. Familiarizing yourself with their stomach size at various stages can also help guide feeding. Here’s a quick overview of a newborn’s stomach size during their first two weeks:

Day 1: The size of a marble
Day 2: The size of a walnut
Day 3: The size of a ping pong ball
Day 7: The size of an apricot
Day 10: The size of a large egg

For additional insights, check out this blog post or visit this resource for excellent information on pregnancy and home insemination. For more details on average baby weight, you can read about it here.

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Summary:

Determining how much a newborn should eat can be challenging for new parents. Generally, feed your baby whenever they show signs of hunger and stop when they seem full. Newborns typically feed every one to three hours in their early days, and as they grow, the intervals lengthen. Understanding feeding cues and the size of your baby’s stomach can help facilitate this process. Consult your pediatrician for personalized guidance.