Question

The newborn eats three times a day and has a significant appetite, often snacking between breakfast and lunch, such as with biscuits. If not fed, they will cry, seemingly feeling hungry. They can consume about ten dumplings at a time, eating quickly and difficult to control. What methods should be adopted to regulate the appetite?

Answer

Newborn feeding should follow the on-demand feeding principle, usually feeding every two and a half to three hours, with each feeding session’s amount increasing with age while maintaining normal bowel movements. If parents overfeed due to concerns that their child is not eating enough, it may lead to an increased stomach capacity in newborns, which is harmful to for future growth and development. Therefore, newborn feeding should ensure appropriate portions and avoid excessive nutrition. The size of a newborn’s appetite is relative and is usually judged based on birth weight and gestational weeks.