Infant nutrition

Breast milk

Breastmilk is considered the best food for most infants by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and other professional groups concerned with the care of newborns. The AAP recommends that babies be breastfed exclusively for about the first 6 months. At this time solid food such as infant cereal can be added. Breastfeeding along with solids should continue for at least the first year of life.

However, no matter how long you decide to breastfeed you will be providing your baby with many benefits. To begin with, colostrum (or early breastmilk) provides a large amount of antibodies which help protect your baby from infectious diseases. Breastmilk provides nutrients in a balanced and easily digestible form while it continues to provide antibodies and growth factors for your baby.

Breastfeeding tips

Allow your baby to nurse on demand — which may be about 10 to 12 or more times a day initially (this helps establish your milk supply). Let your baby nurse for about 15 to 20 minutes at each breast. Start each new feeding with the opposite breast, and have baby nurse from both breasts at each feeding. The amount of feedings will gradually change over time but may increase during growth spurts (usually at about 2 and 6 weeks of age and again at about 3 and 6 months of age). Signs that your baby is getting enough milk are:

• Appears satisfied after feeding
• Has 6 to 8 wet diapers a day
• And, stools at least once a day

Also, the American Academy of Pediatrics states water and juice are unnecessary for a breastfed baby during the first 6 months.

Bottle feeding

Infant formulas are available to meet your baby's nutritional needs, if you are unable to, choose not to breast feed or need to supplement breast feeding. These formulas contain appropriate amounts of protein, calories, fat, vitamins and minerals for growth. Additional vitamin and mineral supplements are usually not needed if your baby takes enough iron-fortified formula. You should continue offering formula for the first year of life. Try offering formula in a covered cup with a spout at around 6 to 9 months of age.