Home » Blog » Breastfeeding » Why does my baby go crazy when feeding?

Why does my baby go crazy when feeding?

Understanding Your Baby’s Feeding Frenzy
Feeding a baby can sometimes feel like a wild experience, especially when they seem to go “crazy” during mealtime. This behavior, often described by parents as their little ones acting like “little piranhas,” can be puzzling and even a bit overwhelming. Understanding the reasons behind this can help parents navigate these feeding sessions with more ease and confidence.
The Nature of Infant Feeding
Babies are naturally wired to express their needs and emotions, and feeding is a primary way they communicate. When a baby appears to go wild during feeding, it can be attributed to several factors. For one, hunger can manifest in various ways, and some babies may become overly excited or fidgety when they see or smell milk. This excitement can lead to frantic movements, which might seem chaotic but are simply a reflection of their eagerness to eat.
Moreover, the act of breastfeeding or bottle-feeding can be stimulating for infants. The close physical contact, warmth, and the act of sucking can trigger a rush of emotions. Babies may feel a mix of excitement and urgency, leading to what parents perceive as “crazy” behavior. This is particularly common in younger infants who are still learning how to coordinate their sucking and swallowing.
Emotional Connections and Feeding
Another aspect to consider is the emotional connection that develops during feeding. Feeding is not just about nutrition; it’s also a bonding experience. Babies often associate feeding with comfort and security. If they are feeling particularly fussy or distressed, they may react more intensely when they are offered food, as they seek solace in the familiar act of being fed. This emotional response can sometimes amplify their behavior, making it seem more frantic.
Overstimulation and Sensory Input
Additionally, babies can become overstimulated by their environment. Bright lights, loud noises, or even the presence of too many people can contribute to a baby’s heightened state during feeding. In such cases, the feeding session might turn into a chaotic experience as the baby struggles to focus on the act of eating amidst distractions.
Tips for Managing Feeding Frenzy
To help manage these feeding frenzies, parents can try creating a calm and soothing environment during feeding times. Dimming the lights, reducing noise, and minimizing distractions can help the baby focus better on feeding. Additionally, establishing a consistent feeding routine can provide a sense of security for the baby, making them less likely to become overly excited or anxious during meals.
In conclusion, while it can be alarming to witness your baby going “crazy” during feeding, it is often a normal part of their development and communication. By understanding the underlying reasons for this behavior, parents can approach feeding with more patience and strategies to create a more peaceful experience for both themselves and their little ones.

Why does my baby get so mad when eating?

Texture and Taste: Babies might cry if they are not accustomed to the texture or taste of new foods. It’s a significant change from the smooth consistency of milk. Discomfort: Medical issues such as acid reflux, food allergies, or oral motor problems can cause discomfort during feeding, leading to crying.

Why does my baby go crazy when breastfeeding?

Sometimes babies can get upset during breastfeeding if the milk flow is too much or if they are uncomfortable from gas or stomach upset. At these times its worth putting them to your shoulder and patting to perhaps move gas. They might burp to indicate this was the issue.

Why is my baby so hyper while breastfeeding?

This sudden release is overactive milk ejection reflex (OMER) or “fast letdown.” If you have OMER, your baby may have a hard time keeping up with the milk flow. They may sputter and gasp as they try to feed.

Why does my baby thrash around while feeding?

Overactive letdown (known medically as hyperlactation) can make it hard for a baby to keep up with the steady stream of milk. As a response, they may twist and tug to try and make the milk flow slow down or stop.

Why is my baby thrashing around while breastfeeding?

Overactive letdown (known medically as hyperlactation) can make it hard for a baby to keep up with the steady stream of milk. As a response, they may twist and tug to try and make the milk flow slow down or stop.

Why does my baby thrash around when feeding?

If nursing is not the calm bonding you were expecting, don’t worry. Some squirming is normal, but if your baby is especially active and squirmy during feedings, it could indicate that they are frustrated.

Why is my baby so agitated when feeding?

Experts can’t always pinpoint the exact reason it happens, but fussiness is especially common in the first few months of life, and also during evening feedings. Some babies fuss when they’re having a growth spurt, or when they’re struggling with a fast milk flow.

Why does my baby go crazy when bottle feeding?

The most important piece of feeding equipment is the nipple. The nipple needs to be the right size and speed for your baby’s size, age and sucking ability. If the nipple is too long, too short, too fast or too slow for your baby, she may experience feeding difficulties and express her frustration by fuss or crying.

Why is my baby so frantic when feeding?

If your baby is fussy after you’ve latched them on, but before your milk lets down, maybe it’s because they’re impatient and want it to come faster. A baby usually has to suck for 30-60 seconds in order for milk to let down. Some babies become lazy suckers and want it to come faster.

What is baby bottle syndrome?

Nursing caries, or tooth decay, can be caused when your child sleeps with a bottle. This condition is also called baby bottle tooth decay. It is caused when a child goes to bed with a bottle filled with milk or juice — anything except water.

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.

Leave a Comment