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Do babies drink less breast milk at 9 months?

Understanding Breast Milk Intake at 9 Months
As babies grow, their nutritional needs evolve significantly, particularly around the 9-month mark. By this age, many infants are beginning to explore solid foods, which directly impacts their breast milk consumption.
Decreased Breast Milk Intake
At 9 months, it is common for babies to drink less breast milk compared to earlier months. This reduction is primarily due to the introduction of solid foods into their diet. As babies start to eat more finger foods and other solids, they naturally nurse less and consume fewer bottles. This shift is a normal part of their development, as they begin to rely on a more varied diet to meet their nutritional needs.
Nutritional Balance
Despite the decrease in breast milk intake, it is important to note that breast milk or formula still plays a crucial role in a baby’s diet at this stage. Even as they explore new flavors and textures, breast milk continues to provide essential nutrients that support their growth and development. According to guidelines, while the quantity of breast milk may decrease, it remains a significant source of nutrition for babies aged 9 to 12 months.
Individual Variability
It’s also essential to recognize that each baby is unique. Factors such as appetite, growth spurts, and individual preferences can influence how much breast milk a baby consumes. Some may continue to nurse frequently, while others may prefer solid foods and drink less milk.
Conclusion
In summary, by 9 months, babies typically drink less breast milk as they transition to a diet that includes more solid foods. However, breast milk remains an important component of their nutrition, ensuring they receive the necessary vitamins and minerals during this critical growth phase. Parents should monitor their baby’s feeding habits and consult healthcare providers to ensure their nutritional needs are being met effectively.

Why is my 9 month old barely drinking a bottle?

Children normally show less interest in bottle feedings between 9 and 12 months of age. They lose interest in the bottle if they are also taking cup and spoon feedings. Many children start weaning themselves by 12 months. After the age of 12 months, the parent often has to start the weaning.

Why is my 9 month old not drinking breast milk?

Common causes of a breastfeeding strike include: Pain or discomfort. Teething, thrush or a cold sore can cause mouth pain during breastfeeding. An ear infection can cause pain during sucking or lying on one side.

How much breast milk should a 9 month old drink?

9 to 12 Month Old Feeding Schedule
At this age, babies should continue having about 7 to 8 ounces of liquid per feeding. They usually cap out at 32 ounces of formula in 24 hours. “By 9 to 12 months, about half of your baby’s calories should come from food and the other half from breast milk or formula,” says Dr. Muth.

Why is my breast milk supply decreasing at 9 months?

Sudden drop in milk supply around 9 months
Babies get more distracted and really are just feeding for nap times and bedtimes and wake ups. Because breasts will never be as engorged as they were in the early postpartum days, mom’s milk can “feel really low” or her breasts “empty.” However, this is normal.

Why is my 9 month old drinking less breast milk?

It’s absolutely normal for baby to drink less breast milk if she is eating a significant amount of solid foods. She’s simply beginning to move toward a more “grown up” diet. If you think it’s because she’s just too distracted to breastfeed, though, try moving feedings to a dark, quiet room.

Why has my 9 month old gone off milk?

The following reasons are some of the most common things to look out for if your baby refuses the bottle: Your baby was recently weaned and wants to continue breastfeeding. Your baby isn’t hungry enough to want feeding. Your baby is feeling sick, colicky, or otherwise unwell enough to feed.

How much breast milk should I be producing at 9 months?

Breast milk pumping guide: how much and when in the first year

Age Amount of milk Frequency of feeds
2 – 3 months 120 – 150ml Every 3 – 4 hours
4 months 120 – 180ml Every 3 – 4 hours
6 months 180 – 230ml Every 4 – 5 hours
6 – 9 months 180 – 230ml Every 3 – 4 hours during the day

When do babies start drinking less milk?

7 to 9 months
Feeding your baby: from 7 to 9 months
As your baby eats more solid foods, they may want less milk at each feed or even drop a milk feed altogether. If you’re breastfeeding, your baby will adapt their feeds according to how much food they’re having. As a guide, formula-fed babies may need around 600ml of milk a day.

How often should a 9 month old breastfeed?

Feeding Guide for 9 to 12 Months

Item 9 Months
Breastfeeding or Formula 3 to 5 feedings per day or 30 to 32 ounces per day
Dry Infant Cereal with Iron 5 to 8tbs. any variety mixed with formula
Fruits 2 to 4 tbs., strained or soft mashed/2 times per day
Vegetables 2 to 4 tbs., mashed, soft, bite-sized pieces/2 times per day

Does breast milk change at 9 months?

In fact, it has been shown that breast milk develops more antibodies and a higher fat content once your little one enters his or her toddler years and is regularly eating complementary foods.

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

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