Is Five Times Enough?

[Mulvah]

My DS, who is nursed on demand, is only nursing five times (on average) in a 24-hour period.  He is gaining, growing, meeting milestones, etc., but it seems like a little amount in comparison to how much milk he may need and/or how much (cow/almond/soy) milk other children have.  My main concern is whether he is getting enough for healthy development.  There are so few resources out there that have information on (extended) nursing and Kellysmom simply says "a few times is enough', which isn't really helpful.

Do I need to start pumping or "force" additional nursing sessions?  I do sometimes "force" a nursing session and he will normally suck for a minute or two and then pop off to go play.  I think I have a healthy supply; I can hear the flow of milk and I still spray frequently.  So, is five times enough? 

Edited by Mulvah - 1/29/11 at 4:00pm

[junipermoon]

Originally Posted by Mulvah 

He is gaining, growing, meeting milestones, etc.

I think I have a healthy supply; I can hear the flow of milk and I still spray frequently.  So, is five times enough? 

I am no expert but I think you are all good if he is gaining/growing, etc! 
 

[MEcatlady17]

I believe that the AAP recommends 16-24oz of cows milk at 12 months.  While you can't completely compare the amounts as human milk is obviously more formulated for a human baby in calories, fats, proteins, etc. It gives a rough idea. 

http://www.kellymom.com/nutrition/solids/toddler-foods.html#cowmilk

this link at Kellymom states breastmilk has a higher fat content than cows milk- a fat for brain development is one of the big 'sells' on cows milk.  This link also says nursing a toddler 3-4 times a day is sufficient for their milk needs, without the need for any other milks until weaning.

[Mulvah]

Thank you both for the responses!
 

Originally Posted by MEcatlady17 

...

http://www.kellymom.com/nutrition/solids/toddler-foods.html#cowmilk

this link at Kellymom states breastmilk has a higher fat content than cows milk- a fat for brain development is one of the big 'sells' on cows milk.  This link also says nursing a toddler 3-4 times a day is sufficient for their milk needs, without the need for any other milks until weaning.

I didn't see that information prior; thanks.    I will see how his next visit is and go from there.