Expert: ruth kraft - 12/17/2009

Question
My son is 11 months old, and I have been breastfeeding him 5 times a day, with solid foods 3 times a day. My milk supply is low, but I can increase it by drinking more, which is really the hardest thing for me. His blood work came back low in iron, but the doctor said he is teething and he is not eating so much.He list some weight but nothing to be concerend about. He is now feeling better, but lately, he has been fussing so much after 2 hours of being breastfed. I had the urge to give him 4 oz of formula in between the last 2 feedings for the last couple of days, is that ok? am I overfeeding him?  

Answer
He is coming up on his 1 year birthday so he will likely go through a growth spurt too. I don't think the formula is needed. At 11 months, it may seem like your supply is low but he can get far more out of you than you realize. your breasts feel "empty" because your body has adjusted to the amount of milk, not because it isnt there. WIth breastfeeding you can't over feed him. There are more calories in breastmilk than formula also with better nutritional value. You can also take metamucil to help increase your milk as well. Twice a day and that will help increase it. Drinking more of course helps too. I woudl suggest keep feeding him and letting him eat when he wants. He should be out of this phase soon. Since you have had him checked out by a doctor, I would just keep watching him to make sure nothing developmental shows up and trust he is getting what he needs :)

I hope that helped!