New mothers who want to return to work have often been able to combine breastfeeding with formula-feeding, especially after the first few weeks, when the milk supply has been well established. The nursing mother usually needs an extra 500 kilocalories per day, along with 20 more grams of protein and 400 more milligrams of calcium. This can be supplied by adding a glass of milk, a slightly larger serving of meat, and an egg or a slice of bread. Drinking plenty of water will help provide the needed liquid. Because babies can eat very little at one time, they eat every two or three hours.
Babies get hungry at irregular times during the first few weeks.
As they grow, they will become more regular and will be able to go longer between feedings. Each family must choose what's best for them. Just like older children and adults, babies need water as well as milk. These daily fluids are necessary for the formation of urine to help remove wastes from the body. At heavier weights, fluid needs are smaller.