Feeding patterns of exclusively breast-fed infants during the first four months of life

Abstract

Milk intake and feeding patterns of 45 exclusively breast-fed infants were documented longitudinally over the first four months of life. Two prevailing feeding patterns were identified: one in which feedings were distributed throughout the 24-h day and one in which feedings were excluded from the early 12:00 a.m. to 6:00 a.m. period. No significant differences in total milk intake (g/24 h) were detected between months or feeding patterns. Milk intake per feeding decreased throughout the day irrespective of feeding pattern. Feeding frequency and duration declined in successive months of lactation. Total milk intake was not significantly correlated to feeding frequency or duration.