Breastfeeding mothers need to follow a specific plan of nursing their babies from the first day of childbirth. Breast milk may not be sufficient for the infant during the first two or three days of birth because normally it takes that much time for sufficient production of milk, especially in first time mothers. Hence, the baby needs to be fed during these days with a little gruel properly diluted or a little thin milk sweetened with loaf sugar. This should be discontinued once the breast milk becomes sufficient and the baby needs no other food.
During the first 10 days the baby needs to be breastfed according to its appetite. During this period the baby’s stomach is rather weak and therefore less quantity of milk is required at one time. Once this milk is digested the baby will show signs of hunger again. Hence, frequent breastfeeding may be required during this period as and when the baby feels hungry.
After the first 10 days, the baby needs to be breastfed at regular intervals of 3 or 4 hours around the clock. This interval gives the baby time to digest the milk properly and avoid any problem of stomach upset. And the kid will remain contend and happy with out any problems of crying or uneasiness.
Some mothers make the mistake of putting the baby to the breast when ever it shows any signs of disturbances. The kid may have become upset due to some other reasons other than hunger. Over-feeding the baby in this manner is life-threatening and will cause indigestion and other forms of stomach disorder, resulting in fever.
Also, don’t let the kid sleep with the mother’s nipple in its mouth during night. This also will result in over-feeding. To avoid this problem, breastfeed the baby around 10 p.m. and again around 5 a.m. This practice, taught early, will form a habit and make the baby wake up regularly when it is time for breast feeding. And the health of the mother and the child will remain normal as a result.
This dietary plan can be continued even after the first six months up to the time of weaning provided the mother has ample milk and the kid is satisfied. In such cases there is no need to change the diet. However, in most cases mother’s milk alone is insufficient to satisfy the kid, sometimes even before the six month period. If your baby falls into this category feed it with a suitable baby health food at least twice a day, as recommended by your doctor. Try to find the most suitable food for your baby by experimenting with various brands until you come up with the best one.
Posted on April 11th, 2008 by admin
Filed under: Baby, Breastfeeding, Toddler
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