Hi Bun
you ARE doing a fantastic job. Food may not be the answer to her unsettled time. She is probably going through a big development period and perhaps she's telling you she needs some more closeness to you right now. It could be anything - oral development, some motor skill she's developing....I wouldn't worry about 'habits' forming.
Once she's over this little period, she will start sleeping better. Whilst she's going through this stage, can you wear her in a sling during the day? she may sleep in it and you can get about, go for a walk and feel free of trying to settle her all the time?
I found with DD1, 'habits' about sleep really only started to stick much much later - around 11 or 12 months. Up till then she was pretty maleable. she was in and out of our bed all the time but once she started being big enough to kick me all night long, we decided to keep her in the cot. Plus once you think they've mastered something (e.g. settling down themselves) they then go through a big developmental period and it all changes again.
I find especially with DD2 that i can really only give her a max of 20 mins to get her off to sleep as DD1 runs round the house. If she isn't off to sleep, then i stop trying and get on with the day and the next activity (e.g. lunch, washing etc). If we go out for a walk then she may just drop off herself. Otherwise, i may just put her in the sling and keep on with whatever we need to do.
Is this a possibility for you? or can you spend a day or so just snuggled in bed together and leave the housework? you may be able to get a bit more rest and she'll probably feel wonderful being close to you.
Keep your chin up. They're only babies for such a small period of time and this difficult time will pass quicker than you think.
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