How Much Breast Milk Should You Feed Your Baby Daily? A Complete Guide for New Moms
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Time to read 4 min
Roopa K
B.Sc ,Certified Lactation Educator (CLC), Certified Lactation Professional (CLP), Garbh Sanskar Expert, Postpartum Health Nutritionist.
Roopa is committed to providing holistic support and guidance throughout the prenatal, postnatal, and breastfeeding journey of Indian mothers.
Table of content
1. Introduction
Becoming a new mom is an exciting yet overwhelming journey, especially when it comes to feeding your baby. One of the most common questions new moms ask is, how much milk should a newborn drink ? Whether you are breastfeeding, formula feeding, or doing a mix of both, understanding your baby’s milk needs is essential. In this guide, we will cover everything from newborn milk intake per day to feeding schedules for two- and three-month-old babies. We’ll also discuss signs that indicate your baby is getting enough nutrition and how to enhance your milk supply naturally.
2. How Much Milk Should a Newborn Drink?
Newborns have tiny stomachs and need frequent, small feedings. In the first few days, their intake is minimal, but it gradually increases as their stomach capacity grows. Here’s a general breakdown:
Day 1: 5-7 ml per feeding (about the size of a teaspoon)
Day 3: 22-27 ml per feeding
Week 1: 45-60 ml per feeding
Week 2-3: 75-90 ml per feeding
By the end of the first month, most babies consume 590-890 ml per day. Keeping track of breast milk quantity ensures that your baby is getting adequate nourishment.
Baby Milk Consumption Chart
To give you a clearer idea of your baby’s needs, here’s a quick reference chart:
Age |
Approx. Milk Intake per Feeding |
Feedings per Day |
Total Daily Intake |
0-1 month |
45-90 ml |
8-12 |
590-890 ml |
1-2 months |
90-120 ml |
7-9 |
710-1050 ml |
2-4 months |
120-150 ml |
6-8 |
750-1200 ml |
4-6 months |
150-180 ml |
5-6 |
900-1350 ml |
Breast Milk Quantity vs. Formula Feeding
Breastfed babies tend to consume smaller amounts per feed but eat more frequently, while formula-fed babies usually take in larger quantities and feed less often. Cluster feeding in newborns is common, especially in the evenings, and helps increase milk supply to meet the baby’s growing needs.
3. How Often to Breastfeed a 2-Month-Old?
At two months, babies still need frequent feedings, but their feeding schedule becomes slightly more predictable. Most babies nurse every 2.5-3 hours during the day and 4-6 hours at night .
Breastfeeding Frequency at 2 Months
Babies typically nurse 7-9 times per day .
Some may experience cluster feeding , especially in the evening.
Night feeds usually occur 1-3 times per night .
Night Feeds and Baby Development at 2 Months
By this stage, babies begin to sleep for longer stretches at night, though they still require 1-2 feedings. Growth spurts around 6-8 weeks may temporarily increase their hunger, leading to more frequent nursing.
4. How Often to Breastfeed a 3-Month-Old?
By three months, babies typically nurse every 3-4 hours , with longer gaps between feedings at night.
Breastfeeding Frequency at 3 Months
Most babies breastfeed 6-8 times per day .
Night feedings are reduced to 1-2 times per night .
Some babies start sleeping through the night but may still wake for a dream feed.
Growth Spurts and Baby Hunger Cues
Growth spurts at 3 months can temporarily increase feeding frequency. Recognizing baby hunger cues , such as sucking hands or increased fussiness, can help you determine when your baby needs more milk.
5. Signs Your Baby is Getting Enough Milk
It’s natural to worry whether your baby is getting enough nutrition. Look out for these signs of a well-fed baby:
Relaxed hands and body after feeding
Turning away from the breast or bottle
Steady weight gain
6-8 wet diapers per day
If your baby is cluster feeding , don’t worry—it’s a normal part of their development and helps regulate your milk supply.
6. Ensuring Optimal Breastfeeding with the Right Nutrition
Maintaining a healthy milk supply requires proper nutrition. If you’re looking for a natural way to boost your breast milk production, Lactobites by Nutrizoe can help. These lactation-enhancing bites are designed specifically for new moms and are packed with galactagogues like Shatavari, Moringa, Fennel, Fenugreek, Gond and Cinnamon to support lactation. Lactobites help enhance breast milk supply, aid postpartum recovery, and improve overall wellness in a convenient, delicious format.
7. FAQs
1. How can I tell if my baby is hungry?
Look for baby hunger cues like rooting, sucking on hands, and fussiness. Crying is a late sign of hunger, so it’s best to feed before your baby becomes overly distressed.
2. Is it normal for my baby to nurse more frequently some days?
Yes, babies go through growth spurts around 6 weeks, 2 months, and 3 months, which can increase their feeding frequency temporarily.
3. Can I overfeed my baby while breastfeeding?
It’s rare to overfeed a breastfed baby. They naturally stop when full, unlike bottle-fed babies who might continue due to the ease of sucking.
4. When should I introduce a feeding schedule?
Newborns should be fed on demand. Around 3-4 months, babies may settle into a feeding schedule naturally, but flexibility is key.
5. Should I wake my baby for night feedings?
In the first few weeks, yes, if they sleep more than 4 hours at a time. After 2 months, most babies wake naturally when hungry.
6. What should I eat to improve my milk supply?
Include galactagogues like Moringa, Fenugreek, and Shatavari, found in Lactobites, and maintain a balanced diet with adequate hydration.
7. How long should each breastfeeding session last?
Typically, 15-20 minutes per breast is sufficient, but durations vary by baby. If your baby is content and gaining weight, they’re getting enough milk.
8. Key Takeaways
Understanding how much milk a newborn should drink and recognizing your baby’s feeding patterns will help you feel more confident in your breastfeeding journey. Every baby is different, but by following a structured baby feeding schedule , looking for baby hunger cues , and ensuring your own nutritional needs are met, you can provide the best nourishment for your little one. And if you need a natural way to boost your milk supply, Lactobites is here to support you!