#asktheexpert how many times can I feed my baby a day

Question

Accepted Answer

The frequency of feeding a baby per day can vary depending on their age and developmental stage. Here’s a general guideline based on age:

### Newborn (0-1 month):
- **Feeding Frequency**: Feed on demand, which can mean every 1.5 to 3 hours, or 8 to 12 times a day.
- **Night Feedings**: Typically, newborns may feed during the night as well, depending on their feeding patterns.

### 1-2 Months:
- **Feeding Frequency**: Still feed on demand, approximately every 1.5 to 3 hours.
- **Number of Feedings**: 7-9 feedings per day, including night feedings.

### 2-4 Months:
- **Feeding Frequency**: Babies may start to space out feedings slightly, feeding every 2 to 4 hours.
- **Number of Feedings**: 6-8 feedings per day.

### 4-6 Months:
- **Feeding Frequency**: Generally, every 3 to 4 hours during the day.
- **Number of Feedings**: 5-6 feedings per day.

### 6-12 Months:
- **Feeding Frequency**: Babies may be feeding every 4 hours or so, with solids gradually introduced around 6 months.
- **Number of Feedings**: 4-5 feedings per day, including solid meals and breastfeeding or formula.

### Beyond 12 Months:
- **Feeding Frequency**: Breastfeeding or formula feedings may decrease as solid foods become a larger part of the diet.
- **Number of Feedings**: 3-4 meals a day, with milk feedings (breast milk or formula) gradually tapering off as solid food intake increases.

### Important Considerations:

- **Feeding on Demand**: Always respond to your baby's hunger cues, such as rooting, sucking motions, or fussiness.
- **Night Feedings**: Babies may still require night feedings in the early months, gradually decreasing as they grow older and their stomach capacity increases.
- **Solid Foods**: Introduce solid foods gradually around 6 months while continuing breast milk or formula as the primary source of nutrition.

Each baby is unique, so these guidelines can vary. Consulting with your pediatrician can provide personalized advice based on your baby's growth, development, and individual needs.