Can an Active Breastfed Baby Put on Weight Very Slowly? A baby who is actively breastfed may put on weight very slowly. This is because the baby is getting all the nutrition and calories they need from breast milk. Breast milk is more easily digested than formula, so the baby may not need as much food to feel satisfied. Additionally, breast milk contains antibodies that help the baby’s immune system, which may help them to stay healthy and avoid illness.
Can an Active Breastfed Baby Put on Weight Very Slowly?
Active breastfeeding refers to a baby who is actively suckling at the breast. This means that the baby is latched on correctly and is drawing milk from the breast. An active breastfed baby will typically put on weight slowly.
There are several reasons why an active breastfed baby may put on weight slowly. One reason is that breastmilk is more easily digested than formula. This means that active breastfed babies tend to need less food than formula-fed babies.
Another reason why active breastfed babies may put on weight slowly is that they typically feed more frequently than formula-fed babies. This means that they take in smaller amounts of milk each time they feed.
Breastmilk is also more calorie-dense than formula. This means that active breastfed babies get more calories per ounce of milk than formula-fed babies.
If you are concerned that your active breastfed baby is not gaining weight appropriately, talk to your healthcare provider. Many things can be done to help active breastfed babies gain weight appropriately, including increasing the frequency of feedings and supplemental feedings with pumped breastmilk or formula.
The Benefits of Breastfeeding
The benefits of breastfeeding are well-known and well-documented. Breastfeeding provides many benefits for both mother and child. Some of the benefits of breastfeeding include:
1. Breast milk is the perfect food for your baby. It is easy to digest and contains all the nutrients your baby needs for healthy growth and development.
2. Breastfeeding helps protect your baby from infection. Breast milk contains antibodies that help protect your baby from illnesses, such as ear infections, colds, and respiratory infections.
3. Breastfeeding can help reduce the risk of childhood obesity.
4. Breastfeeding can help lower the risk of certain chronic diseases in your child, such as type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure.
5. Breastfeeding can help reduce the risk of certain cancers, such as breast cancer and ovarian cancer.
6. Breastfeeding can help you bond with your baby. Skin-to-skin contact during breastfeeding helps you feel close to your baby and can be calming for both of you.
7. Breastfeeding can save you money. The formula is expensive, and you don’t have to worry about buying it or storing it.
8. Breastfeeding can be convenient. You don’t have to pack bottles and formula when you leave the house, and you can breastfeed anywhere.
9. Breastfeeding can help you lose weight. Breastfeeding burns extra calories, so it can help you get back to your pre-pregnancy weight more quickly.
10. Breastfeeding can lower your stress levels. Oxytocin, the “love hormone,” is released when you breastfeed, which can help you feel calmer and more relaxed.
The Drawbacks of Breastfeeding
There are a few potential drawbacks to breastfeeding that expectant mothers should be aware of. First, it is important to note that not all women can produce enough milk to breastfeed. This is often due to a lack of the hormone prolactin, which is necessary for milk production. Additionally, some medications, such as certain birth control pills, can decrease milk production. If a mother is unable to produce enough milk, she may need to supplement with formula.
Another potential drawback to breastfeeding is that it can be time-consuming and demanding. Nursing mothers need to be available to feed their babies every few hours, which can make it difficult to get enough sleep or get anything else done. Additionally, breastfeeding can be physically demanding, as it can cause soreness and fatigue.
Finally, it is important to note that there is a small risk of infection associated with breastfeeding. This is because bacteria from the mother’s skin can get into the baby’s mouth during nursing. However, this risk can be minimized by taking proper precautions, such as washing the breasts and using a clean nipple shield.
The Bottom Line
If your baby is active and breastfed, it may put on weight slowly. This is because they are using up more calories than a less active baby. If you are concerned about your baby’s weight, talk to your doctor.
As a licensed physician, my knowledge is based on both experience and study. I practice medicine and am a mother. I am aware of the anxiety that comes with having a sick child and how important it is for you to make the best choices.
