Milk Feeding at 3 Months: Recommended Amounts in ml
When it comes to baby food, parents are often faced with questions and concerns. Breastfeeding is an important stage in the child's development, and around the age of 3 months many changes occur. This comprehensive guide will cover everything you need to know about breastfeeding at 3 months to make sure your little one is getting the nutrition they need.
Intro to Food and Development
At 3 months, most babies are completely fed exclusively on milk, whether it's breast milk or formula. This period is crucial for their development as their body grows and develops rapidly. It is important to ensure that they are adequately fed to support this rate of growth.
Motor Development
At this stage, children begin to develop their motor skills and explore the world around them. It is essential that nutrition contributes to strengthening muscles and improving coordination, aspects that can be supported by the correct intake of milk. Properly fed children tend to have better motor development. For example, the ability to support the head and roll over are related to nutrition.
Language development
Although it may seem far-fetched, nutrition can also influence language development. Breast milk or formula must provide enough energy and specific nutrients, such as omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for brain development and cognitive skills, including language.
Recommended quantities in ml
It is very important to know how much milk the baby should receive at the age of 3 months. In general, a baby needs on average about 150-200 ml of milk per kilogram of body weight per day. This means that if a baby weighs 6 kg, he will need about 900-1200 ml of milk per day.
Food Program
As your baby grows, you may notice that the interval between meals increases. At 3 months, most babies eat every 3-4 hours, which is about 6 meals a day. It is essential to establish a consistent eating schedule, which helps both digestion and establishing a healthy sleep rhythm.
Nocturnal Nutrition
Many babies at 3 months are still waking up to eat during the night as well. Although it is normal, it is good to gradually try to limit these meals, to encourage a longer and more uninterrupted sleep during the night. However, every baby is different and it is important to follow the baby's hunger signals, feeding him when necessary.
Quality of Milk
The quality of the milk – whether it is breast milk or prepared formula – is crucial. Breast milk usually provides all the necessary nutrients, but if you choose formula, make sure it is of high quality and meets the nutritional standards needed for growing babies.
Difficulties in Food
Sometimes, at 3 months, babies may have feeding difficulties, such as colic or reflux. It is important to discuss these issues with your pediatrician to make sure they are not symptoms of a bigger problem and to find the best solutions.
Pay attention to Baby Signals
Children cannot express their needs in words, so it is vital to pay attention to non-verbal cues. Crying, finger-sucking or fussing can signal hunger, while turning their head or refusing to eat any more can mean they are full.
Supplementation with Water or Tea
At this age, most babies do not need supplemental water or tea, as milk provides sufficient hydration. If your pediatrician recommends introducing water, make sure you follow his directions exactly.
Conclusion
Breastfeeding at 3 months of age is a vast topic and essential for your baby's healthy development. Respecting the recommended amounts in ml, recognizing the child's hunger and satiety signals, as well as maintaining a regular feeding schedule are all important aspects to consider. Do not hesitate to ask the pediatrician for advice in case of concerns or problems. Together, you can make sure your little one gets everything they need to grow up healthy and happy.
