Newborn Feeding: A Guide for New Parents – Part 2

The Dynamics of Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding is a dynamic interaction between you and your baby. It’s not just about feeding; it’s about engaging in a two-way communication that includes physical, biochemical, hormonal, and psychosocial exchanges. Through breastfeeding, you’re not only feeding and hydrating your baby but also building a deep emotional bond. You’re teaching your baby about relationships, sending them important immunological components, and contributing to their brain development. This unique relationship is beneficial for both of you, helping your body become more resistant to diseases and supporting your baby’s overall growth and development.

Is Night Feeding Important?

Yes, night nursing is crucial for breastfeeding. It helps build milk supply, strengthens the breastfeeding bond, and supports your baby’s weight gain. Night feeding is common among all newborns, whether breastfed or formula-fed.

Studies indicate that nearly 80% of infants wake up at least once at night. Human milk digests quickly, leading to frequent night feedings, especially between 9.00 pm to 3.00 am. This phase is temporary and not significantly affected by feeding type or solid food introduction. Breastfeeding mothers often get more and better sleep than those who formula-feed.

Why do babies wake up at night?

Many parents wonder why their young babies frequently wake up during the night. One significant factor is the digestion of human milk. Its composition, easily digested and gentle on a baby's kidneys, results in digestion within approximately 1.5 hours. Research indicates that, particularly in the early weeks and months, babies often nurse most frequently between 9.00 pm and 3.00 am, consuming about 20% of their daily caloric intake during these hours. However, this phase of frequent night nursing is temporary.

Furthermore, studies suggest that the type of food (breast milk or formula) or the introduction of solid foods do not significantly alter a baby’s patterns of nighttime awakenings. These patterns are more closely related to the baby's developmental stage than their diet.

As babies mature, they tend to wake less often and require fewer night feedings. Interestingly, research has shown that breastfeeding mothers and their partners often experience about 45 minutes more sleep per night and have better quality sleep (more deep sleep) compared to those who formula feed.

While frequent night wakings are normal for young babies, there are some things parents can do to help their baby sleep through the night. Establishing a consistent bedtime routine, creating a calm sleep environment, and ensuring the baby is getting enough to eat during the day can all contribute to better sleep.

Can my baby sleep through the night?

Many parents hope their babies will sleep through the night, but this is rare and could even be risky for younger babies. Research on Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) indicates that babies who awaken easily may be better protected from SIDS. Breastfeeding, especially exclusively, significantly protects against SIDS.

Breastfeeding your baby, including at night, gives them the best start in life. Night nursing, though challenging, offers comfort, security, and a strong foundation for healthy development.

How can SLB Lactation Cookies Help?

SLB lactation bakes offer significant benefits for breastfeeding mothers, particularly during nighttime feedings. These delicious and nourishing treats are crafted with ingredients known to promote lactation, such as oats, flaxseed, and brewer’s yeast, which not only nourish you but also enhance the quality and quantity of your breast milk. Enjoying these bakes as part of your nighttime routine provides a dual benefit: they serve as a comforting snack during late-night nursing sessions and aid in maintaining a healthy milk supply.

Here are the key benefits of incorporating SLB lactation bakes into your nighttime routine:

• Promotes Lactation: Ingredients like oats, flaxseed, and brewer’s yeast are known to support and enhance milk supply.

• Provides Nutritional Support: These bakes offer essential nutrients for both mother and baby.

• Offers Comfort and Indulgence: They serve as a comforting and enjoyable snack during late-night nursing sessions.

• Supports Healthy Milk Supply: Regular consumption helps maintain a healthy milk supply, crucial for the baby's growth and development.

• Enhances the Bonding Experience: Incorporating these bakes into the nighttime routine can make the nurturing experience even more rewarding.

Conclusion

The journey of breastfeeding is a unique and enriching experience for both mother and baby. The importance of responding to your baby’s hunger cues, particularly through night feedings, plays a pivotal role in ensuring a healthy milk supply, facilitating the physical and emotional development of your infant.

Incorporating SLB lactation bakes into this journey offers a nourishing and enjoyable supplement that supports lactation. These bakes, crafted with ingredients known to aid milk production, provide a practical and delightful way for mothers to nourish themselves while catering to their babies’ needs. Breastfeeding, as a journey, is as much about building a deep bond with your baby as it is about nourishment. It’s a period where each feeding moment becomes an opportunity for growth, love, and connection.

Adapted from article written by Joanna Goy, 

Founder, Singapore Lactation Bakes

Read original article here: https://slb.sg/how-often-should-i-feed-my-newborn/