“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
“Can you please give three tips for parents when feeding toddlers that I can share with my daughter-in-law?“
Here are five tips for feeding toddlers that will hopefully be helpful:
- The best way for toddlers to eat and enjoy new foods is to copy you. Eat with them as often as you can and let them see you eat healthy and varied food.
- Give your toddler the same food as the rest of the family.
- Nowadays, many parents are choosing to let their children eat by themselves (baby led weaning; BLM) instead of the old fashioned way of parents feeding children pureed foods. Whatever method your daughter-in-law chooses is fine. There are no differences in terms of nutritional benefits between toddlers that are spoon-fed and those that are eat by themselves.
- Make mealtimes enjoyable. Chat and have a laugh.
- If your grandchild refuses any foods, try changing how you serve them. For example, a child might refuse cooked carrots but might eat raw ones.
If you want more information about nutrition and mealtimes, we have two fantastic masterclasses with a great nutritionist:
Making Mealtime Enjoyable for your Family
Understanding and Identifying your Child’s Nutritional Needs
I hope this information helps! I wish you all the very best to you and your family.
Love,
Ana
