Feeding
Overfeeding Signs & Prevention
While rare (especially in breastfed babies), overfeeding can happen. Signs: spitting up large amounts frequently, rapid weight gain (crossing multiple percentile lines upward), hard belly, excessive gas, discomfort during feeding.
Bottle-fed babies at higher risk (parents may encourage finishing bottle). Breastfed babies typically self-regulate well.
Babies know when they're full - watch for fullness cues.
What to Do
- Watch for fullness cues: turning head away, closing mouth, falling asleep, pushing bottle away
- Stop feeding when baby shows fullness signs - don't force them to finish bottle
- Use paced bottle feeding - hold bottle horizontal, let baby control flow
- For breastfeeding, let baby decide when to stop (they'll pull off or fall asleep)
- Avoid using bottle as pacifier - offer pacifier separately if needed for comfort
- Track weight gain at regular checkups - doctor will alert you if too rapid
- Feed on demand, not on schedule, but recognize hunger vs. other needs (comfort, boredom)
When to call a doctor
Call doctor if baby vomits forcefully after every feeding, has severe gas pain, refuses feedings, or gains weight very rapidly (ask about at well visits).