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Ms. Mary Silva
Specializing in feeding and nutrition.
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Relationship between Growth Patterns and Appetite in Infants
QUESTION
Dear Ms. Silva,
I have a 3½-month-old daughter. She weighed 6 pounds 7 ounces when she was born; now she weighs 11½ pounds. According to the tables she should be eating 30 ounces a day but she does not eat more than 24-26 ounces per day (and sometimes even less). Should I be worried? She seems to have plenty of wet diapers, is happy, and has good color. Any advice you can give would be great.

— Adley's Mom in CA

ANSWER
October 25, 2001
Dear Adley's Mom,
Babies have different appetites and patterns of growth. The information you gave does suggest that your baby should weigh about 11½ pounds and that she'd need to drink about 28 ounces of formula to continue growing in this pattern. However, some babies do grow in a different pattern. You might discuss your baby's growth with your pediatrician who will show you her growth chart and her pattern of growth. Once her length is taken into account, your pediatrician can tell you what an expected weight would be. You might also consider asking for a referral to a Registered Dietitian with pediatric expertise who can evaluate the feeding of your baby and give you some specific suggestions.

— by Mary Silva, M.S., R.D.

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