How Much Should a Newborn Eat? A Comprehensive Guide for New Parents

Feeding a newborn can be a source of both joy and anxiety for new parents. Ensuring that your baby is getting enough nutrition is critical for healthy growth and development. But how much should a newborn eat? The answer depends on several factors, including age, weight, and feeding method (breastfeeding or formula feeding). In this guide, we’ll break down the essentials of newborn feeding so you can feel confident in nourishing your little one.

How Often Should a Newborn Eat?

Newborns have small stomachs and require frequent feeding. In general:

• Breastfed newborns should eat every 2 to 3 hours, or about 8 to 12 times per day.

• Formula-fed newborns usually eat every 3 to 4 hours, or about 6 to 8 times per day.

Newborns often feed on demand, meaning they may want to eat more frequently during growth spurts. Signs of hunger include rooting (turning their head toward your hand or breast), sucking on hands, and increased alertness.

How Much Should a Newborn Eat Per Feeding?

The amount a newborn eats per feeding varies depending on whether they are breastfed or formula-fed:

Breastfeeding

It can be difficult to measure exactly how much a breastfed baby consumes, but a rough guideline based on age is:

• Day 1: 5-7 mL per feeding (about the size of a cherry)

• Day 3: 22-27 mL per feeding (about the size of a walnut)

• Week 1: 45-60 mL per feeding (about the size of an apricot)

• Week 2 and beyond: 60-90 mL per feeding (about the size of an egg)

Breastfed babies typically regulate their intake naturally, and as long as they are producing an adequate number of wet and dirty diapers, they are likely getting enough milk.

Formula Feeding

Formula-fed babies tend to eat more per feeding since formula is metabolized more slowly than breast milk:

• Newborns (0-2 weeks): 30-60 mL per feeding (1-2 oz)

• 2 weeks to 1 month: 60-90 mL per feeding (2-3 oz)

• 1-2 months: 90-120 mL per feeding (3-4 oz)

• 2-3 months: 120-150 mL per feeding (4-5 oz)

By the end of the first month, most babies are consuming about 90-120 mL (3-4 oz) per feeding, totaling 700-900 mL (24-32 oz) per day.

Signs Your Baby Is Eating Enough

A well-fed baby will:

• Have at least 6-8 wet diapers per day by one week old

• Have regular bowel movements (though patterns vary)

• Appear satisfied after feedings

• Gain weight steadily (about 5-7 ounces per week in the first month)

• Be alert and active when awake

If your baby is not meeting these benchmarks or seems excessively fussy, consult your pediatrician to rule out feeding issues.

Overfeeding and Underfeeding Concerns

While most babies regulate their own intake well, it's possible to overfeed or underfeed.

• Overfeeding (more common with formula-fed babies) may lead to spitting up, gas, and discomfort.

• Underfeeding can result in poor weight gain and dehydration. Watch for signs like lethargy, infrequent wet diapers, and excessive fussiness.

In a Nutsheel

Every baby is unique, and feeding patterns can vary. By paying close attention to hunger cues, diaper output, and weight gain, you can ensure your newborn is receiving the nourishment they need. If you ever have concerns about your baby’s feeding habits or growth, don’t hesitate to reach out to your pediatrician or lactation consultant for guidance. Parenthood is a journey, and feeding your newborn is one of the first steps in fostering a healthy, happy baby.