Signs of Overfeeding in Newborns

While overfeeding is rare, it can happen. Growth cues can provide insights if you have concerns. “When looking at a baby’s weight gain, it's important to look at their growth relative to themselves,” said Jenelle Ferry, M.D., a board-certified neonatologist and director of feeding, nutrition and infant development at Pediatrix® Neonatology of Florida. “So if a baby is beyond the 90^th percentile but always has been and stays growing along that same curve, that wouldn't be concerning,” said Dr. Ferry. But, if a baby has increased weight across percentiles, that could potentially be a sign of overfeeding, she added. “We want babies to grow and gain weight appropriately,” explained Dr. Ferry. “Excessive weight gain from overfeeding in infancy can lead to increased risk for difficulties related to metabolic syndromes later in life, so it's important to discuss feeding volumes and growth with your pediatrician.”

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