Basic information
-Most formulas come from cow’s milk. A few come from soybeans and are for babies who may be allergic to the type of proteins in cow’s milk.
-Use an iron-fortified formula to prevent anemia.
-Most formulas come as either: 1) Powder, 2) Concentrated liquid, and 3) Ready-to-serve liquid. Powder and concentrated liquid formulas are less expensive compared to ready-to-serve formulas.
How often should I feed my baby?
The following is a reasonable schedule to follow. However, your feeding schedule must be flexible to meet your child’s unique needs.
- From 0 to 4 weeks: 6 to 8 milk feedings per day. No more than every 2-3 hours. Wake baby up to feed after 3 hours. 1-3 ounces per formula feed, every 2-3 hours. This amount increases as the baby grows and is able to take more at each feeding. To reduce night feedings, awaken your baby if he naps for more than 3 consecutive hours during the day.
- From 1 month to 3 months: Every 2-4 hours. For example, at about 2 months, the baby may be feeding 4-5 ounces (120-150 milliliters) every 3 hours. Total of 18-32 ounces per day.
- From 3 to 6 months: Every 2-4 hours during the day. Every 6-8 hours overnight. May go 10 hours overnight at 6 months of age. For example, the baby may take 4-6 ounces per feed for a total of 24-32 ounces per day.
- By 6 months: 4 milk feedings per day (solids with 3 of these). 2 snacks per day. For example, By 6 months, the baby may be taking 6-8 ounces (180-230 milliliters) every 4 to 5 hours.
- By 9 months: 3 milk feedings a day (solids with all meals). 3 snacks per day.