Does your baby refuse food, turn their head, or cry when you offer it? Many parents worry when their baby doesn't want to eat anything, as the causes can vary from a normal developmental phase to health problems.
In this article, we'll explain:
- ✅ Your baby's stomach size according to their age.
- ✅ How much milk or food do they need at each stage?
- ✅ Real hunger cues (don't confuse them with other cries).
- ✅ What to do if your baby won't eat solids, milk, or only accepts breast milk.
1. Baby's Stomach Capacity
A newborn's stomach is very small and grows rapidly. Here's its evolution:
| Age | Stomach Size | Comparison |
|---|---|---|
| Newborn | 5-7 ml | Like a cherry |
| 3 days | 22-27 ml | Like a walnut |
| 1 month | 80-150 ml | Like an egg |
| 6 months | 200-250 ml | Like an avocado |
Did you know? Forcing a baby to eat more than their stomach can hold can cause reflux or discomfort.
2. How Much Should Your Baby Eat?
Infants (0-6 months)
- Newborn: 7-60 ml per feeding, 8-12 times a day.
- 2-month-old baby: 120-150 ml per feeding, 5-6 times a day.
- 4-6-month-old baby: 180-210 ml per feeding, 4-5 times a day.
Babies Starting Solid Foods (6-12 months)
- Milk: 500-700 ml/day (breast milk or formula).
- Solids: 2-3 meals a day (purees, fruits, cereals).
Common mistake: Offering solids too quickly can make the baby not want to eat. Introduce a new food every 3-4 days.
3. Why Won't My Baby Eat?
Newborns (0-3 months)
Causes:
- Reflux (arches their back after eating).
- Nipple-bottle confusion (if you use both).
- Too tired (a newborn who sleeps a lot and doesn't eat needs to be woken up every 2-3 hours).
Older Babies (6-12 months)
Causes:
- Teething (swollen gums).
- Doesn't like the texture (too liquid or lumpy puree).
- Wants more independence (let them use their hands to eat).
Solution: If your baby won't eat solids, try soft, easy-to-grab foods (ripe banana, avocado).
4. Recognizing Warning Signs in Baby's Food Refusal
See your pediatrician if your baby:
- Sleeps more than 4 hours straight without eating (risk of dehydration).
- Loses weight or doesn't gain weight properly.
- Vomits frequently (don't confuse with normal regurgitation).
- Has a fever or is irritable (could be an infection).
5. Conclusion
If your baby won't eat, don't panic. First, rule out medical problems and then adjust their diet according to their age and hunger cues.
Remember:
- ✔️ Never force them to eat.
- ✔️ Offer a variety of foods (textures, flavors).
- ✔️ Consult a pediatrician if the loss of appetite persists.
