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Q&A: How Much Milk Should My 7-Month-Old Baby Be Getting?
Q&A: How Much Milk Should My 7-Month-Old Baby Be Getting?
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Q My son is 7 1/2 months old. He was breastfed exclusively until 5 1/2 months, when we introduced solids. I work three days a week. On those days, he drinks only 10-12 ounces of expressed milk during my 10-hour absence but polishes off 4 jars of baby food and some cereal. I am concerned that he is eating too much food and not getting enough milk. How much milk should a 7 month old be getting?
A The average intake of milk at this age is anywhere between 18-24 ounces in a 24 hour period. Some babies can take in alot of solids and some babies are less interested. I usually recommend letting the baby dictate how much. Don't ever force more food if he is not interested. You may see fluctuations in eating quantities over time and once he starts finger foods around 9 months, the solid intake will naturally cut down, because it is harder for them to get in alot until their skills improve.
I would check weight gain, and if your baby is gaining appropriately, and getting a minimum of 16-18 ounces of fluids a day, you are probably doing fine.
Dr. Christine Wood is a practicing pediatrician in Southern California. She is the author of "How to Get Kids to Eat Great and Love It," a book that addresses the issues of why and how to feed kids healthy. Visit her website at http://www.callyourped.com
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