Human milk should adequately meet the needs of an infant at how many mL/kg/day?

Human milk is typically adequate for meeting the nutritional needs of infants in the range of 150-180 mL/kg/day. This volume provides the necessary calories, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals that a growing infant requires during their early months.

Adequate intake of milk is essential for promoting healthy growth and development, including brain development and weight gain. In this context, feeding within this range ensures that infants receive the proper nutrients while also being exclusively breastfed, which has numerous health benefits, including a lower risk of infections and chronic diseases later in life.

Choosing this specific range reflects guidelines that consider the average needs of infants in various growth stages. This intake also helps maintain adequate hydration and energy levels, supporting their overall development during a critical growth period. Thus, the choice of 150-180 mL/kg/day reflects both clinical consensus and empirical evidence regarding infant nutritional requirements.