Page:Food and cookery for the sick and convalescent.djvu/45

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INFANT FEEDING.
23

from the breast; it is, however, generally easier for the child to take it from a small bottle with nipple attached. If the bottle is used, it is sometimes difficult to get the child to take the breast.

Regular feeding must be insisted upon as best for mother and child. It tends to keep the quality of the milk uniform, thus enabling the child to sleep better, not be overfed, and lessening the causes for indigestion. Too long intervals between the nursings produce a diluted product; while too short intervals, a condensed product. If regular feeding is observed the milk supply will agree with the capacity of the child's stomach. By more frequent nursing the milk glands are stimulated to secrete a larger quantity, and the little stomach capable of distension is overtaxed. Mothers should be made to realize that upon this care during a few months much of the later health and vigor of their offspring depend.

Table for Infant Feeding.

Age. Number of Feedings.

Birth to 2 months 10 .

2 to 3 months

3 to 6 months

8 to 12 months

12 to 16 months

Hours for Feeding.

a.m.

p.m.

6

2

8

4

10

6

12 m.

8

10

One Night-Feeding

6

2

9

4

12 m.

6

8

10

6

3

9

6

12 m.

10

6

3

9

6

12 m.

7.30

2.30

11.30

5.30