Is it better to feed on demand or schedule?

The Feeding Dilemma: On-Demand vs. Scheduled Feeding
In the world of infant care, one of the most debated topics among parents and caregivers is whether to feed babies on demand or to adhere to a scheduled feeding routine. This decision can significantly impact both the baby’s development and the parents’ well-being, making it a crucial consideration for new families.
On-Demand Feeding: A Responsive Approach
Feeding on demand, as the name suggests, involves responding to a baby’s hunger cues whenever they arise. This method is particularly beneficial in the early stages of life. Research indicates that feeding on demand helps establish a robust breastmilk supply, which is essential for breastfeeding mothers. It allows babies to regulate their intake based on their individual needs, promoting healthy growth and development.
Moreover, on-demand feeding can foster a strong bond between the parent and child. By responding to a baby’s cries and cues, parents can create a nurturing environment that supports emotional security. This approach aligns with the natural instincts of both the baby and the caregiver, allowing for a more intuitive feeding experience.
However, on-demand feeding can also be exhausting for parents, especially in the early months when babies may feed frequently, sometimes every hour or two. This constant demand can lead to fatigue and stress for caregivers, prompting some families to consider a more structured approach as their baby grows.
Scheduled Feeding: Structure and Predictability
On the other hand, scheduled feeding involves feeding the baby at set intervals, regardless of hunger cues. This method can provide a sense of predictability and routine, which some parents find beneficial. Scheduled feeding can help parents manage their time better, allowing for more structured daily activities and potentially improving sleep patterns for both the baby and the parents.
However, the effectiveness of scheduled feeding can vary. While some studies suggest that it may help with cognitive development and maternal well-being, there is no consensus on its overall benefits compared to on-demand feeding. Critics argue that rigid schedules may not meet the individual needs of every baby, potentially leading to issues such as overfeeding or underfeeding if a baby is not hungry at the scheduled time.
Finding the Right Balance
Ultimately, the choice between on-demand and scheduled feeding may depend on the unique circumstances of each family. Many experts suggest a hybrid approach, where parents start with on-demand feeding to establish breastfeeding and then gradually introduce a flexible schedule as the baby grows and feeding patterns become more predictable.
This balanced method allows parents to remain responsive to their baby’s needs while also providing some structure to their day. It acknowledges that every baby is different, and what works for one family may not work for another.
In conclusion, whether to feed on demand or on a schedule is a deeply personal decision that should consider the needs of both the baby and the parents. By weighing the benefits and challenges of each approach, families can find a feeding strategy that best supports their lifestyle and promotes healthy development for their little ones.

What are the disadvantages of on demand?

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At what age should on demand feeding be replaced by scheduled feedings?

It is recommended that the best time to switch from on-demand to scheduled feeding is when you introduce your baby to solid baby foods (earliest 6 months of age). This is because when your baby starts on solid foods, many families begin to have their baby join them at their own mealtimes.

Should I feed on demand or on schedule?

Feeding on demand is a good practice when establishing your supply, and usually involves feeding every 1-3 hours in the early days. Some newborns may not be so motivated to wake up and eat however, and in this case I recommend waking them to feed at least every 2-3 hours early on.

How long should you demand feed a baby?

In the first few weeks of life, breastfeeding should be “on demand” (when your baby is hungry), which is about every 1-1/2 to 3 hours. As newborns get older, they’ll nurse less often, and may have a more predictable schedule. Some might feed every 90 minutes, whereas others might go 2–3 hours between feedings.

Should bottle feed be on demand or schedule?

Newborns and young babies should be fed whenever they seem hungry. This is called on-demand feeding. After the first few days of life, most healthy formula-fed newborns feed about every 2–3 hours. As they get bigger and their tummies can hold more milk, they usually eat about every 3–4 hours.

How long should you wait to demand feed a baby?

6 to 12 Months
This is sometimes called breastfeeding on demand. If your baby seems less interested in breastfeeding after you introduce solid foods, try breastfeeding before you offer other foods. Your breast milk is the most important source of nutrition, even after you start feeding your baby solid foods.

What are the cons of demand feeding?

The disadvantages of demand feeding can be: as baby gets older are that you don’t know when feeds should be, you can’t plan your day around feeds, and also baby doesn’t really know where he is regarding feeds and wake up. Also, it’s much more difficult to teach baby to self settle and sleep well.

What is the 3 month breastfeeding crisis?

These increases occur around the same time for all babies, hence the term “3-months breastfeeding crisis”. This crisis is the most well-known because it is the most challenging for mothers. One reason is that this crisis, unlike others you may experience before, can last up to a month.

When to stop nursing on demand?

Breastmilk in the first year
Your baby should still breastfeed on demand, as your breastmilk is their primary source of nutrition until closer to the end of their first year. Babies weaned from breastmilk prior to their first birthday will need to be given infant formula.

Is important to feed infants on demand rather than on a set schedule?

The few studies which have investigated feeding schedules find that demand feeding produces better outcomes, in terms of pre-term babies’ growth and health6,7; breastfeeding duration and exclusivity8,9; and infants’ psychological adjustment.