Ensuring adequate daily breast milk intake is crucial for nursing infants—both excessive and insufficient intake are problematic. Many parents from the 80s and 90s generations have limited knowledge about infant feeding. Recently, online discussions have erupted about whether nighttime feedings are beneficial. We consulted pediatric health experts on this topic to provide helpful insights.
1. Is feeding seven or eight times a night normal?
Experts clarify that feeding seven or eight times at night isn't inherently abnormal, especially for younger infants. Some babies may suddenly change their feeding patterns, nursing every one to two hours overnight for a period—this is also normal.
The key lies in understanding your baby and identifying why nighttime feedings have increased. Is it due to insufficient nutrition in daily meals, or has the baby developed a dependency on night feedings? If the former, adjust the diet and introduce complementary foods. If the latter, learn scientific methods to wean the baby off night feedings.
II. Should you feed the baby every time they cry at night?
Moms may notice that feeding is often the most effective way to calm a crying baby. If the baby falls asleep after feeding, that's a great solution. However, if feeding doesn't soothe them, it's important to look for other reasons. Babies cry for many reasons—they might be cold, hot, need a diaper change, or feel discomfort from clothing rubbing against their skin.When your baby cries, check if their hands and feet feel cold, inspect the diaper for leaks or wetness, or see if clothing is too tight and causing discomfort. Don't automatically reach for the bottle.
III. Does Nighttime Feeding Cause Baby Tooth Decay?
Tooth decay involves multiple factors, not just feeding. Two key causes are: sugar exposure around teeth and Streptococcus mutans bacteria breaking down sugar into acids. Genetics also plays a significant role.
Breastfeeding carries a much lower risk of tooth decay than formula feeding, as formula contains higher sugar levels. Compared to formula-fed babies, breastfed infants latch deeper onto the nipple and must suck vigorously for milk to reach the back of the mouth. This results in less breast milk remaining between the teeth.Formula feeding with bottles, however, involves shallower latching. Milk may even flow without suction, leaving more formula—and more sugar—between the baby's teeth, making cavities more likely.