My baby lost weight in the hospital: Should I supplement with formula? Tips for avoiding formula & supplementing without ruining breastfeeding.

Were you told in the hospital that your breastfed baby lost “too much” weight and now you’re questioning everything?Newborn weight loss is one of the most misunderstood and fear-based decision points in early breastfeeding, and it’s where so many breastfeeding journeys are unintentionally derailed

In this episode, IBCLC and mom of five Jaimie Zaki breaks down what newborn weight loss actually means, why hospitals often push formula so quickly, and how to make confident, informed decisions that protect both your baby and your breastfeeding goals so you can avoid unnecessary formula. 

• Why newborn weight loss is biologically normal and expected

• How IV fluids during labor can artificially inflate birth weight

• Why the “10% weight loss rule” is often misunderstood and misused

• Why weight loss alone does not tell us if breastfeeding is working

• What should be assessed before recommending formula

• When supplementation may be helpful — and when it’s unnecessary

• How to supplement without sabotaging milk supply or breastfeeding confidence

• Why fear-based feeding decisions often create the very problems they claim to prevent

RESOURCES & PRODUCT RECOMMENDATIONS

FREE 5 Breastfeeding Mistakes to Avoid 

Confident Mama Breastfeeding Academy 

Supplementing for Breastfeeding Moms Mini Course 

Book a Virtual Lactation Consultant 

For Doulas seeking advanced lactation education & expert curated breastfeeding support frameworks, check out Breastfeeding Beyond the Birth Plan Here: https://www.littlebearlactation.com/birthworkers/lactation-education-for-doulas

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Thank you to RESTORATIVE ROOTS for sponsoring this episode of the Breastfeeding with Confidence Podcast. Learn more about how RESTORATIVE ROOTS can help you thrive now: restorativeroots.com