Friday, May 29, 2009

Infant Feeding Guidelines | Infant Schedule | Infant Feeding Guide

Infant Feeding Guidelines | Infant Schedule | Infant Feeding Guide

Infant feeding
The first year of your baby is very crucial for his development and proper feed should be given during this time. It is the first year of the baby where he gains maximum growth. Initial 6 months the baby should be given mothers milk exclusively as it is healthy for the child and contains all necessary ingredients required for his growth. As the baby grows variety of healthy foods can be included in his diet so that he has good pattern of healthy eating through out his life.

Infant Feeding during first 6 months:
The breast milk is the best feed for the baby during first 6 months. A child can be fed on this breast milk exclusively as the quality and quantity is sufficient for the Childs development and growth. Mother’s milk contains appropriate quantity of fat, protein, water and sugar which is good for the new born. Mother’s milk also contains various anti infective factors that protect an infant from various infections, allergies and diseases. Moreover it is also recommended by WHO and AAP to feed your child exclusively on mother’s milk for the initial 6 months. During this period small and frequent feeds should be given to the child so that he remains sufficed and full. Initially it may be difficult for a child to know his feeding pattern but within few months he gets used to it and becomes comfortable.

Infant Feeding after 6 months:
As your child grows and is over 6 months, some additional healthy diets can be given to him. Initially dry infant foods and cereals can be given to the baby but in very small quantity. Start with a tablespoon and when the child gets used to it you can increase the quantity. Do not give your child new type of food everyday as he is not used to such eating patterns. Wait for a week before starting any new food so that you come to know if your baby is allergic to any particular food or not. Slowly and gradually as your child grows you can include variety of healthy foods for his over all growth and development.

Thus infant feeding should be taken due care with respect to the type of food and quantity given so that a child gets proper nutrition needed for his growth.

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