Babies, Parenting, Child Health, Infant Nutrition

Baby Development – Breastfeeding Mothers Should Note Baby's Hunger Pangs in Time

07.08.2008 | 1:07:37 pm | Posted by mummums

By Colleen Hurley, RD, Certified Kid’s Nutrition Specialist

Several new studies have helped nursing mothers hone is on best feeding practices as well as testing some common misconceptions about breastfeeding. More pediatricians are following suit and providing more in depth tips for proper breastfeeding.

baby development, parenting The Munich based Association of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine Professionals (BVKJ) suggests in a public announcement that mothers can reduce baby’s crying time by picking up on hunger cues quickly. When a baby cries for long periods of time before a feeding, it can result in a stressful meal. In addition, when babies cry they swallow air which can often lead to gas after the feeding.

In the first few weeks after birth, newborns are generally nursed every 2-3 hours. As time goes by, mothers and infants get to know each other a little better and can actually pick up on each others cues. Feeding slowly decreases from 12 times a day to about 6-8 times. BVKJ pediatricians note that during rapid growth times such as 10-14 days after birth, at 3 weeks, 6 weeks, as well as 3 and 6 months; babies may want to feed more often deviating from their normal schedule.

Recommendations for breastfeeding have shifted more to an on demand basis, as opposed to simply feeding on regular intervals. On demand feeding allows the baby to dictate the time and duration of nursing. A recent study, however, found that although babies may initiate when feeding takes place, keeping nursing time to about 10 minutes on each breast actually resulted in increased milk production and a more satiated baby.

When tuning in to your baby’s hunger cues, BVKJ acknowledges that sometimes a baby just wants to suck on something. Doctors note mothers should resist the temptation to provide a pacifier too soon, as it can often confuse the baby resulting in difficult feedings. Pacifiers are suitable after at least one month, when baby and mum have mastered breastfeeding. One way to ensure your baby is getting adequately fed? Check diapers; 6-8 wet diapers a day and about 3 or more bowel movements are the norm. Be sure to consult your physician if you experience difficulty breastfeeding, and with any questions or concerns.

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