Now I am wondering if I should try to cut out these middle of the night feedings. My pediatrician's office suggested I start her on cereal and that I shouldn't wake her before I go to bed. I don't agree with either suggestion. She is a Board Certified Lactation Consultant, as well as a retired La Leche League Leader. By a baby's first birthday, one third to one quarter are still waking during the night.
Babies can receive up to one third of their nutrition at nighttime feeds.
This is especially important for babies of working moms who may take in less milk during the day, making up for it when their mom is at home. Nursing your baby before you go to bed is a great idea. There is no research to support claims that starting solid foods helps babies to sleep through the night. In fact, in some babies, especially those younger than four months of age, starting solids can cause digestive disturbances that may keep them awake. Nighttime feeds are also beneficial to you.