How to Calculate How Much Milk Your Baby Must Drink

Feeding your baby and ensuring they drink an adequate amount of formula or breast milk can be a stressful undertaking for many new parents. Since the nutritional needs of babies vary depending upon their age, weight and other conditions, parents often wonder how much milk they should offer their babies. By paying attention to your baby's age as well as their feeding cues, and by making sure your baby sees their pediatrician regularly, you can ensure your baby gets the milk they need to thrive and grow.

Instructions

1

Take into account your baby's age. Newborn babies often eat every two to three hours and breastfed babies might nurse even more often since they often suck for comfort as well as nourishment. Very young formula-fed babies might take as little as 1-3 ounces of milk per feeding while most babies older than 6 months drink about 8 ounces per feeding. Breastfed babies usually will drink varying amounts at each feeding, and their intake will remain about the same for the first six months, until they begin eating solid food and nurse slightly less often.

2

Watch your baby's behavior for clues on how much milk they need. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that breastfed and bottle-fed babies be fed on demand, which means whenever they display signs of hunger. Pay attention to hunger cues such as crying, sucking on fingers, nuzzling against your breasts or displaying the rooting reflex--turning her face to your hand when you touch her cheek. Make sure your baby displays signs of being well-fed, such as contentment after feedings and a steady weight gain.

3

Multiply your baby's weight times 2.5 ounces to determine his optimal milk intake. According to the BabyCenter Medical Advisory Board, most babies who are not eating any solid food should be offered 2.5 ounces of breast milk or formula per pound of body weight within each 24-hour period.

4

Talk to your pediatrician about your child's nutritional needs. Your pediatrician can reassure you that your child is growing at an acceptable rate, and they can offer advice and feeding recommendations specifically tailored to your child.

5

Pay attention to any feeding problems and correct them before they cause more serious issues. By proactively addressing issues such as constant spitting up, vomiting after feedings or diarrhea, you can help ensure your baby gets enough milk to fuel their growth.