Caring for a newborn can feel like trial and error, especially regarding their appetite. Whether breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, a new mom often worries about ensuring their baby gets the amount of nutrition needed to grow and thrive. After that first visit to the pediatrician, it can feel daunting to keep up with a newborn's growing needs, so here's how to tell they're getting enough food.

How Do You Know if Your Baby Eats Enough?

1. Typical Weight Gain 

It is normal for a baby to lose up to 5 to 10% of their birth weight during the first few days of life. After that, you should notice a weight gain of 4 to 7 ounces weekly. By the time they're 4 to 6 months old, they should be twice as heavy as they were when born. For a feeding frame of reference, most newborns eat eight to 12 times a day or every two to three hours. 

2. Regular Diaper Changes 

Dirty diapers are a positive sign of ample nutrition. A one-week-old baby should need their diaper changed at least six times in 24 hours. A newborn may only have two bowel movements total in their first days out of the womb. 

The frequency changes by the time they are 4 months old. At this point, they will likely experience two bowel movements daily, gaining in volume as they grow. Let your pediatrician know if your baby isn't eliminating as much waste as you think they should. 

3. Physical Cues

Communication can be a challenge with a new baby. Although they cannot speak, they give plenty of nonverbal cues to tell you they are full. For instance, they can pull their head away or keep their mouth closed during a feeding. You can also spot them falling asleep or shaking their head.

A well-fed baby is active and alert between feedings. Talk to your pediatrician about potential underlying issues if you notice your child seems agitated or overly tired. 

Maintaining your family's health is attainable when you can get quality healthcare for everyone in one location. The doctors at Chewelah Associated Physicians in Washington provide a wide range of specialized care options, including obstetrics and women's healthcare, pediatric and infant care, minor surgery, geriatrics, and preventative medicine. Their team is committed to keeping your family healthy and happy, from regular checkups to emergency medical care. To schedule an appointment, call (509) 935-8711.