From the Guidelines
Demand feeding is the optimal approach for infants, as it allows them to regulate their own intake based on their unique hunger patterns and growth needs, and supports the establishment of milk supply for breastfeeding mothers, as evidenced by the most recent study in 2022 1. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends responsive feeding, which involves feeding infants in response to their hunger and fullness cues, rather than adhering to a strict schedule. This approach is supported by the study published in Current Obesity Reports in 2022, which highlights the importance of responsive feeding in promoting healthy eating habits and weight status in children 1. Some key points to consider when implementing demand feeding include:
- Newborns typically need to feed 8-12 times per day (every 2-3 hours), but this varies between babies
- Feeding frequency signals the body to produce appropriate amounts of milk, supporting the establishment of milk supply for breastfeeding mothers
- Demand feeding accommodates growth spurts when babies need more frequent feedings
- As babies grow, they naturally develop more predictable patterns, and parents can respond to their hunger cues while allowing natural patterns to emerge over time It's also important to note that while some parents find a loose routine helpful, forcing a strict feeding schedule can lead to underfeeding, overfeeding, or milk supply issues, as highlighted in the study published in Pediatrics in 2005 1. In terms of specific guidelines, the study published in Current Obesity Reports in 2022 provides the following recommendations:
- Feed infants every 2-3 hours or 8-12 times every 24 hours in the first month of life
- Introduce solid foods 2-3 times per day at 6-8 months, and 3-4 times per day at 9-11 months
- Avoid forcing a strict feeding schedule, and instead respond to the baby's hunger cues while allowing natural patterns to emerge over time, as supported by the study published in 2022 1.
From the Research
Optimal Feeding Approach for Infants
The optimal feeding approach for infants is a topic of ongoing debate, with two main approaches being considered: demand feeding and scheduled routine feeding.
- Demand feeding involves feeding the infant on demand, whenever they show signs of hunger, rather than adhering to a fixed schedule.
- Scheduled routine feeding, on the other hand, involves feeding the infant at set times, regardless of their hunger cues.
Comparison of Demand Feeding and Scheduled Routine Feeding
Studies have compared the effects of demand feeding and scheduled routine feeding on infant outcomes.
- A study published in 2004 2 found that demand feeding was associated with a longer daily mean interval between feeds, greater volume per feed, and greater feeding speed in healthy premature newborns.
- In contrast, a study published in 2013 3 found that schedule-fed babies performed less well academically than their demand-fed counterparts, with lower scores in standardized tests and IQ tests.
Recommendations for Infant Feeding
Major health organizations recommend breastfeeding as the optimal source of infant nutrition, with exclusive breastfeeding recommended for the first six months of life 4, 5, 6.
- The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends breastfeeding for at least one year, and the World Health Organization recommends a minimum of two years 5.
- A study published in 2001 4 found that breast milk alone can meet nutrient needs during the first 6 months, with the possible exception of vitamin D and iron in certain populations.
Key Considerations for Infant Feeding
When it comes to infant feeding, several key considerations must be taken into account, including:
- The nutritional needs of the infant, which can be met through breast milk or infant formula 6
- The benefits of breastfeeding, which include decreased risk of atopic dermatitis and gastroenteritis, and higher IQ later in life 5
- The potential effects of scheduled routine feeding on maternal wellbeing and child cognitive development 3