There is good recent evidence as to what the normal weight loss pattern of a
fully breastfed infant should be:
Marchini & Stock J pediatr 1997; 130(5):736-739
Rodriguez et al, Biol Neonate 200; 77(1):12-16
The answer is: maximal weight loss of 6% occuring by day 3
Anything more than 8% should be investigated (with supplementation possibly
necessary.)  An infant should start to regain weight by day 5 at the latest,
and regain birthweight by day 10.
I believe Kay Dewey PhD of UC Davis also has some data from the USA, but I
don't know if it has been published anywhere yet.
I did a LLLI Monograph on Supplementation last year - not sure if it is
available yet.  The current catalogue says "available soon".  Lots of
references.
Nancy

Nancy E. Wight MD, FAAP, IBCLC
Neonatologist, Children's Hospital and Sharp Mary Birch Hospital for Women
Medical Director, Lactation Services, Sharp HealthCare
San Diego, CA, USA

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