A newborn’s diet mainly relies on dairy products, with breast milk being the best choice as it best meets the baby’s growth and development needs. However, if there are issues with maternal milk production, using formula milk as a substitute becomes necessary. A common misconception during feeding is that the more a baby eats, the better. For a 20-day-old newborn, the amount of formula intake is not fixed. It is usually recommended to control the total milk intake between 600 to 800 milliliters per day, divided into approximately seven feedings. During breastfeeding, babies self-regulate their intake and stop sucking once they are full.
During breastfeeding, several details are worth noting: frequently changing brands of formula milk is not beneficial because different formula compositions may challenge the baby’s digestive system. Ensure that the amount of milk fed each time is moderate, especially for more concentrated formula, as excess intake may burden the baby’s stomach. Additionally, helping the baby burp after feeding to expel swallowed air can help avoid abdominal discomfort.
Breastfeeding should follow the on-demand principle, avoiding waking a soundly sleeping baby for feeding at set times. This not only disrupts the baby’s sleep quality but also hinders digestion. Allow the baby to naturally wake when hungry for food, while also being mindful of overfeeding to prevent issues like indigestion and spitting up. Feeding in moderation and meeting the baby’s needs are crucial.
