Parents typically introduce solid foods to a baby's diet between the ages of 4 and 6 months. At this time the amount of formula or milk consumed by the baby will decrease slightly as food intake increases. Babies will likely be drinking about 35 ounces of formula when food is introduced then gradually drop to about 16 ounces by their first birthday.
0-4 Months
The earliest you should introduce a baby to solid foods is 4 months old. Prior to introducing solid foods, determine the amount of formula or milk a baby needs each day by multiplying the baby's weight by 2.5.
4-6 Months
Four-month-old babies who eat solid food typically drink about four to five bottles each day with about 6 to 7 ounces of formula or milk. Thus, a 4-month-old will consume 24 to 35 ounces of formula or milk each day.
6-12 Months
Six-month-old babies who eat solid foods typically drink three to four bottles a day each with about 7 to 8 ounces of formula of milk. That's 21 to 32 ounces of formula or milk each day. Babies will generally stay at this same amount until their first birthday when they transition to cow's milk.
1 Year and Beyond
One-year-old babies usually drink 16 to 24 ounces of milk per day along with three meals and snacks.
Signs That a Baby is Getting Enough Formula
Babies should have about six to eight wet diapers daily. If not, they may not be getting enough formula or milk. Also, the baby should seem relaxed after eating and should steadily gain weight.
Feeding Flexibility
The guidelines for formula amounts are flexible. A baby's hunger cues should supersede the guidelines because babies go through growth spurts when they will need additional nutrition. Similarly, they will go through periods when they will eat and drink less than usual.
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