Being a parent of a newborn is always a challenge – from learning everything about your baby’s needs to trying to find the safest infant formula, there are just too many things to take care of. This guide will not provide you with every little thing you should know about, but it will give you some essential tips you should always keep in mind when feeding a baby.
Always breastfeed if this option is available
Breast milk is a source of various vitamins and all sorts of nutrients that will help your baby grow and develop more quickly. Moreover, breast milk has different long-term effects on the baby’s health — when your child grows up, they will be much less likely to suffer from such diseases and conditions as diabetes, respiratory infections, obesity, and many others. Feed your baby exclusively with breast milk (if you are able to) for at least 6 months after their birth.
Don’t touch your baby or their food with dirty hands
Always wash your hands before feeding your baby or even just touching them. All these germs and dirt will go into your baby’s stomach, which can have a very bad and dangerous effect on their health. Babies’ immune systems are not that strong compared to adults, so it’s crucial to be extra careful when it comes to your child and their safety.
Don’t rush with introducing cow’s milk unless it is one of the formula’s ingredients
Cow’s milk might be full of vitamins and nutrients, but it can be very damaging as well, especially when it’s introduced too early. Of course, if you decide to buy organic baby formula that consists of milk, you shouldn’t worry about most of the effects of this type of milk. However, cow’s milk is not only a common allergen, but it can also be a cause of issues with digestion and even anemia or other diseases. Don’t give your baby cow’s milk from the market until they are at least 1 year old!
Stay healthy yourself
This is an especially important tip if you’re breastfeeding since everything you eat will be then consumed by your baby. It’s crucial to maintain a healthy and well-balanced diet when you are breastfeeding.
Learn how much food your baby needs, but trust your instinct as well
Babies grow up fast, which means that their needs are constantly changing. Accordingly, the feeding schedule and the amount of food your baby eats will also change. And even though it’s best to consult with a doctor to understand how much food your baby should eat, trust your own instincts and watch your baby closely — they will tell you if they are full or still hungry.
Things do get easier
At the moment, everything can be a little confusing. As a parent, your main task is to ensure your baby is safe, but it will be hard to do if you don’t take care of yourself as well. Don’t forget to take breaks, get some rest, and take things slowly – and if you are not sure about something, don’t hesitate to speak to your doctor. Good luck to you!