Liquid Gold: Breast Milk or Formula Feeding (0-5 Months)
This isn't a recipe in the traditional sense, but a reminder that breast milk or iron-fortified formula is all your baby needs for the first 6 months of life! Focus on responsive feeding and lots of cuddles.
Ingredients
- Breast Milk (or Iron-Fortified Infant Formula)
- Vitamin D supplement (as recommended by pediatrician)
Instructions
Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before each feeding.
If breastfeeding, find a comfortable position for both you and your baby. A supportive chair or pillows can help.
Offer the breast when your baby shows signs of hunger, such as rooting (turning head and opening mouth), sucking on hands, or fussiness.
Ensure your baby latches on correctly, taking in both the nipple and areola. You should not feel pain.
Feed on demand, allowing your baby to determine how much and how often they want to eat. This is called responsive feeding.
Switch breasts when your baby slows down or pulls away from the first breast.
If using formula, follow the instructions on the formula container carefully to prepare the formula.
Always use clean bottles and nipples. Sterilize new bottles and nipples before first use.
Hold your baby in a semi-upright position during bottle feeding to prevent ear infections and choking.
Tilt the bottle so that the nipple is always filled with formula, preventing your baby from swallowing air.
Pace the feeding by tilting the bottle down briefly if your baby is gulping too quickly.
Burp your baby frequently during and after feedings to release trapped air.
Hold your baby upright and gently pat or rub their back.
Continue feeding until your baby shows signs of fullness, such as turning away, closing their mouth, or slowing down their sucking.
Discard any leftover formula after each feeding. Do not save it for later.
Administer Vitamin D supplement as directed by your pediatrician.
Safety Notes
- Always supervise your baby during feedings.
- Never prop a bottle. This can lead to choking.
- Consult with your pediatrician or a lactation consultant for any questions or concerns about feeding your baby.
- Do not introduce solid foods before 4 months of age, and ideally wait until around 6 months, unless advised by your pediatrician.
- No honey before 1 year of age due to the risk of botulism.
- No cow’s milk as a drink until 12 months of age.
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories: Approximately 67-75 kcal per 100ml (breast milk or formula)
Protein: Approximately 1.5-2g per 100ml (breast milk or formula)
Carbs: Approximately 7-8g per 100ml (breast milk or formula)
Fat: Approximately 3.5-4g per 100ml (breast milk or formula)