Can Infants Eat Too Much?
“Can infants eat too much? My daughter in law keeps trying to feed her baby (6 months) so so often and doesn’t believe me googling it and saying it can be bad.”
Yes, it is possible for babies to eat too much.
These are the signs a baby may be overfed:
- Fussiness
- Discomfort
- Gassiness
- A tight belly following feedings
- Vomiting: small amounts are normal, but frequent and large amounts may indicate they have eaten too much
- Loose stools
How to prevent overfeeding?
- Follow the baby’s cues: when a baby turns their head away, closes their mouth, plays with the food, or leans back in his highchair, he is probably not hungry any more.
- Offer less first: give him a few tablespoons of food. Watch for signs that they are still hungry or full.
- Don’t force them to finish
At 6 months of age, breast milk or formula continues to be the main source of nutrition for your grandson. Solid foods should be gradually introduced. Babies younger than 12 months of age should not eat: sugar, salt, honey, cow milk, tuna, shellfish, and swordfish.
The American Academy of Paediatrics states that 6 to 12 month old babies should have 5 to 6 feedings (7 to 8 oz per feeding) per day, plus 2 to 3 meals of solid foods. Ideally, you should trust the baby to eat as much or as little as they want.
It is important to gradually set a feeding routine. Regular mealtimes and snack times provide children with a routine. Children should not eat or drink continuously throughout the day.
It is important to pay attention to how much the baby is eating but we should also pay attention to what he is eating. Do not rely on store-bought jars and pouches. They should only be used occasionally. Babies should not suck from the pouch, as it can increase their risk of tooth decay. Babys should not be given snacks until they are 12 months old.
Always remember to check with the baby’s doctor if you are worried about how much of how frequently he is eating. The doctor will look at his weight, length, and overall development. Most likely, if the baby seems happy, is healthy and developing fine, he is probably eating well.
I hope this information helps!
Related articles:
A REC Parenting Guide to… Weaning a 1 Yeat-Old Child (and Older)
When to Introduce New Foods to a Picky Baby?
I wish you all the very best.
Love,
Ana
Qué fantástico artículo y que buenos consejos. Ha sido de una gran ayuda. Un abrazo muy fuerte
Maravilloso artículo sobre la serie Adolescentes y consejos de gran ayuda en una etapa tan complicada de nuestros hijos , tan desprotegidos frente a las nuevas tecnologías.Es una ayuda tremenda para nosotros. Muchas gracias
I'd imagine this is quite deteremental for a childs development in the long run as nothing stays the same forever, and we shouldn't really be making these categorisations, especially towards our children.
Just live life, sometimes you'll have to be the parent that's the shoulder to cry on. The week after you may have to raise your voice a little when everyone is in a rush and you're trying to get your children's shoes on.
Just balance it all out, don't be too self critical and pick up on what your child wants and needs.
Again, great writeup!
Thank you so much for your comment. I totally get what you mean. It is always difficult to have kids living with you, wanting to support them and their parents but at the same time not wanting to step in anyone's toes. If there's anything we can do to support you and your family, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us.
Ana
Ana
sO great to have you here! Totally agree that Zara is great! What other topics would you like us to discuss?
Ana
Ana
