8 Month Old Baby Feeding More At Night Than Day
Introduction
As a parent, you may have noticed that your 8-month-old baby is feeding more at night than during the day. This can be a cause for concern, especially if your baby was previously sleeping through the night. In this article, we will explore the reasons why your baby may be feeding more at night and what you can do to help them.
Reasons Why Your Baby Is Feeding More At Night
There are several reasons why your baby may be feeding more at night:
- Growth Spurts: At around 8 months, your baby may be going through a growth spurt which can increase their appetite.
- Teething: Teething can be a painful process for babies, and they may seek comfort in feeding more frequently.
- Developmental Milestones: At 8 months, your baby may be crawling, pulling up and cruising. These new skills can be tiring and may increase their appetite.
- Separation Anxiety: Your baby may be feeling anxious about being away from you during the day and may seek comfort in feeding more frequently at night.
How To Help Your Baby
Here are some tips to help your baby feed more efficiently during the day and reduce their night-time feeds:
- Offer More Frequent Feeds: Offer smaller, more frequent feeds throughout the day to help your baby get the calories they need without overfeeding at night.
- Introduce Solids: At 8 months, your baby may be ready to start eating solid foods. Introducing solids can help fill them up and reduce their reliance on milk feeds.
- Stick To A Routine: Establishing a routine can help your baby feel more secure and reduce their anxiety. Stick to a regular feeding and sleeping schedule.
- Comfort Your Baby: If your baby is waking up frequently at night, try comforting them without feeding. This can help break the feeding association and reduce night-time feeds.
When To Seek Help
If your baby is feeding excessively at night and it is affecting their sleep and your own, it is important to seek help. Talk to your doctor or a lactation consultant who can help you develop a plan to reduce night-time feeds and ensure that your baby is getting the nutrition they need.
Conclusion
Feeding more at night than during the day is common in 8-month-old babies and can be attributed to growth spurts, teething, developmental milestones, and separation anxiety. By offering more frequent feeds, introducing solids, sticking to a routine, and comforting your baby, you can help reduce their night-time feeds. If the problem persists, seek help from a medical professional.