How Much Should My Baby Be Eating? Month-by-Month Feeding Guide

Feeding Confusion Is Normal

One of the most common questions I hear from parents is: “Am I feeding my baby enough?” Between growth spurts, spit-ups, and ever-changing routines, it can feel impossible to know if your baby’s getting what they need. The reassuring truth: babies are excellent at telling us when they’re hungry and when they’re full. Still, a month-by-month guide can help parents feel more confident.

Newborn to 1 Month

• Breastfed: 8–12 feedings in 24 hours (about every 2–3 hours).

• Formula-fed: 1.5–3 oz per feeding, every 2–3 hours.

• What to watch: Steady wet diapers (6–8 per day) and weight gain are the best indicators your baby is getting enough.

2 to 3 Months

• Breastfed: Still 8–10 feedings in 24 hours, but more efficient (shorter sessions).

• Formula-fed: 4–5 oz per feeding, every 3–4 hours.

• Tip: Babies may start spacing out night feeds, though many still wake every 3–4 hours.

4 to 5 Months

• Breastfed: 6–8 feedings in 24 hours.

• Formula-fed: 4–6 oz per feeding, 5–6 times per day.

• Note: Some babies show interest in solids now, but most aren’t ready until closer to 6 months. Keep milk/formula as the main source of nutrition.

6 to 7 Months

• Breastfed: 5–6 feedings in 24 hours.

• Formula-fed: 6–8 oz per feeding, 4–5 times per day.

• Solids: Start introducing purees or soft finger foods once daily, focusing on iron-rich foods (fortified cereals, pureed meats, beans).

• Tip: Solids at this stage are for practice, not calories—milk/formula remains primary.

8 to 9 Months

• Breastfed: 4–6 feedings in 24 hours.

• Formula-fed: 6–8 oz per feeding, 3–5 times per day.

• Solids: 2–3 small meals of soft foods. Start introducing textures (mashed veggies, scrambled eggs, yogurt). Encourage self-feeding with safe finger foods.

10 to 12 Months

• Breastfed: 3–4 feedings in 24 hours.

• Formula-fed: 6–8 oz per feeding, 3–4 times per day.

• Solids: 3 meals + 1–2 snacks. By 12 months, babies should be eating a wide variety of family foods (cut safely to avoid choking).

• Transition: Around the first birthday, many babies start moving from formula/breastmilk to whole cow’s milk (discuss timing with your pediatrician).

How to Know Your Baby Is Getting Enough

• Steady growth on their pediatric growth chart.

• Regular wet/dirty diapers.

• Content, alert periods between feeds.

• Happy interest in eating when offered food.

Remember: babies’ appetites vary. Growth spurts may bring cluster feeding one week and lighter eating the next. Trust your baby’s cues over strict numbers.

Clinician’s Note

As a pediatrician and a parent, I remind families: feeding is not one-size-fits-all. Some babies eat more, some less—it’s all about growth, development, and cues. If you’re ever worried, your pediatrician can check weight, hydration, and reassure you.

Key Takeaways

• Newborns eat small amounts often; older babies eat larger amounts less frequently.

• Around 6 months, solids begin—iron-rich foods first.

• By 12 months, babies are usually on 3 meals + snacks, alongside breastmilk or cow’s milk.

• Watch growth, diapers, and cues—not just ounces—for reassurance.

Final word: Feeding your baby is part science, part art. Trust the basics, watch your baby’s signals, and remember—you’re doing a great job.