At what angle should you hold a bottle while feeding an infant?

Holding a bottle at a 45-degree angle while feeding an infant is important for several reasons. This position allows the formula or breast milk to flow at a steady and controlled rate, helping to ensure that the infant can comfortably swallow without the risk of choking. Keeping the bottle at this angle ensures the nipple stays filled with milk, preventing air from entering the baby's mouth, which could lead to gas and discomfort. Additionally, this angle encourages the infant to take the milk in a more natural and upright position, promoting better feeding and digestive health.

Feeding at a much lower angle, such as 30 degrees, may not provide enough milk flow and can result in the infant sucking in more air. A steeper angle of 60 degrees or 90 degrees could potentially lead to fast flow, increasing the risk of aspiration and choking. Thus, maintaining the bottle at a 45-degree angle offers a perfect balance for safe and effective feeding.