Pediatrics FAQ’s

Feeding a newborn is a round-the-clock commitment. Since their tummies are quite small, they need to be fed very often. In general, it is recommended to feed the newborns “on demand” (when the baby is hungry). But if you want to know how many feeding does your little one needs will depend on whether you choose to breastfeed or bottle feed.

Most of the newborns who are breastfed need 8 to 12 feedings per day, with 1.5 - 3 hours apart during the first few weeks. While bottle-fed babies may have slightly fewer feedings i.e, about 6 to 10 feedings per day. This is because the breast milk digests easier and sooner than the formula, hence the baby will be hungry more often and should be fed more frequently. And most of the moms are confused how to count the feeding intervals, either from the time the baby starts or stops nursing. A feeding interval is a time between two feedings from the time when the baby begins to nurse. As the baby grows, these feeding intervals tend to decrease and so does the number of feedings per day.

It is often recommended by pediatricians to give vitamin D supplements for babies every day, even if they are healthy. The reason behind this is that vitamin D deficiency in babies can cause rickets, a disorder which weakens the bones and can lead to fractures and skeletal deformities. Vitamin D plays an important role in the healthy growth and development of the babies. It also helps in preventing illness by boosting baby’s immunity.

Do breastfed babies need vitamin D supplements?

Many mothers who are breastfeeding their babies think that there is no need for any other vitamin supplements as breast milk is the best source of nutrition. But breastfeeding moms would be surprised to know that breast milk has fewer amounts of vitamin D, which is not sufficient for the babies.

Though sunlight is the best source of vitamin D, babies can’t be exposed to direct sunlight. They should be kept out of the direct sun as much as possible; as long-term of sun exposure could lead to skin cancer. So, it is essential to give vitamin D supplements for breastfed babies to meet their daily requirement.

What is the recommended quantity of vitamin D supplements for babies?

According to The American Academy of Pediatrics, babies should get 400 International Units (IU) of vitamin D per day. But the quantity of vitamin D drops depends on whether the baby is being breastfed or formula-fed. This is because, the infant formula will be already fortified with vitamin D, and babies don’t need any supplements if they are formula-fed.

Consider these guidelines to give the right quantity of vitamin D for the babies:

• If the babies are completely or partially breastfed, they should be given 400 IU of liquid vitamin D per day - starting from the birth.

• If the babies are formula fed and drink less than one litre of vitamin D-fortified formula per day, they should be given 400 IU of liquid vitamin D for few days. Vitamin D supplements should be continued until they drink at least one litre of formula milk per day.

While giving liquid vitamin D for the babies, make sure not to exceed the recommended quantity.