Baby feeding

So you're expecting a baby, and it's never too early to start learning the basics of baby feeding. It can all be a bit confusing; should you breast or bottle feed, or do both? Each has its advantages and disadvantages, and it really depends on what's going to work best for everyone involved, including the new addition. Some mothers are committed to breastfeeding and end up formula feeding instead, some babies started on formula don't tolerate it well, so mom breast feeds instead. Many factors play into the final decision of what to feed baby. It's important to learn about all feeding options before the birth of your baby, so that your baby will get complete balanced nutrition. Babies grower faster during their first year of life than during any other time. They need three to four times more calories per pound of body weight than adults, and fat for energy and absorption of vitamins.

Babies are totally dependent on their parents and caregivers for nutrition and love, and many new parents are excited about the new addition to the family, but anxious as well. Find out all there is to know about feeding your baby from breast to bottle feeding to starting solids. Learn about breastfeeding which is a popular option for many women because breast milk provides the baby with the nutrients it needs. Breastfeeding is convenient and unlike formula, it doesn't require and advance planning or packing and it's always available at just the right temperature. On the other hand, some parents choose the baby feeding to be with iron-fortified infant formula completely or to supplement nursing with an occasional bottle. This allows for dad or other caregivers to share in feeding the baby without mom needing to pump breast milk.

Most new parents have lots of questions and want to make an informed decision and consider all baby feeding options. There are many online resources available that provide helpful insight to new parents-to-be through all stages of the pregnancy and everything that comes afterward. The baby's doctor, nurse, or certified lactation consultant can also offer great support to provide new parents with helpful insight on infant nutrition and what is right for the new baby. There are many choices and decisions to be made before a new baby arrives and what to feed is an important one. Baby feeding is a wonderful time for bonding with the new baby, to snuggle with the new bundle of joy and get to know each other. Enjoy!