For infants 0-6 months, breast milk or iron-fortified formula should make up the majority of their diet. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), exclusively breastfeeding or formula feeding is recommended for around the first 6 months of life. Breast milk or formula provides all the nutrients needed for optimal growth and development during this timeframe. Solid foods are not recommended to be introduced until around 6 months of age.
Nutritional Needs For United States Infant Nutrition
Breast milk provides a complete source of nutrition for infants 0-6 months. It contains the perfect balance of proteins, fats, vitamins, minerals, and antibodies to support an infant’s growth and brain development. The AAP recommends breastfeeding at least for the first year of life with continued breastfeeding for as long as mutually desired by mother and baby. Exclusive breastfeeding is ideal for around the first 6 months, after which complementary foods can be slowly introduced while continuing to breastfeed.
Formula As An Alternative To Breast Milk
For babies that cannot breastfeed or whose mothers choose not to, iron-fortified infant formula is recommended as a breast milk alternative from birth until around 12 months of age. Formula is carefully formulated to provide similar nutritional content to breast milk. It undergoes rigorous testing and regulation by the FDA to ensure formulas support healthy growth and development in babies. For the first year, either breast milk or a standard infant formula (with iron) should make up the majority of an infant’s diet.
Introducing Solid Foods
Around 6 months of age, most babies begin showing signs they are ready for some complementary solid foods in addition to breast milk or formula. These signs include being able to sit with support, having good head and neck control, displaying curiosity about foods others are eating, and losing interest in nursing or bottle feeding for short periods. Introducing solid foods too early provides no additional benefit and increases risks like food allergies. The ideal time is around 6 months.
Getting Started With Solid Foods
When starting solid foods, experts recommend single-ingredient, allergy-friendly foods that are soft, smooth, and easy to swallow or gum, like pureed fruits and veggies. Top choices include sweet potatoes, avocado, banana, applesauce, carrots, and butternut squash. It is okay if most gets on the high chair tray rather than in their mouth at first. Consistency and exposure help babies learn to eat. Starting with small amounts 2-3 times per day allows digestive systems to adjust gradually. Iron-rich baby cereals can also be mixed with breast milk or formula and used to start complementary feeding.
Nutritional Needs As Babies Grow
Between 6-12 months, slowly increase the variety, texture, and amount of solid foods. Continue breast milk/formula as the main source of nutrition. At around 8 months, babies can start to eat finger foods like soft pieces of banana or mango that break down easily. Smooth purees gradually transition to chunkier textures as oral motor skills improve. Between 7-12 months, foods like full-fat yogurt, cheese, tofu, peanut butter, scrambled eggs, soft-cooked meats can be safely introduced in small quantities. Formula or breast milk continue to provide key nutrients over the first year.
Healthy Diet As Toddlers Begin To Feed Themselves
Once toddlers can feed themselves, nutrition needs continue evolving. Between 12-24 months, it’s important to offer a variety of healthy foods from all major food groups for balanced nutrition and exposure to different tastes and textures. Avoid sugary, salty, or fatty snacks. Meals and snacks should come from the core food groups like whole grains, dairy, lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats. Limit juice to no more than 4 ounces per day. Allow toddlers to self-feed with their hands or with utensils with help as needed. Let them explore food textures safely with supervision. Keep mealtimes relaxing and positive for optimal eating habits and health as children grow.
The ensuring infants and toddlers receive proper nutrition during these critical growth years lays the foundation for health and development. Carefully following age-appropriate feeding guidelines set by leading health authorities helps achieve optimal outcomes. With breast milk, formula or both along with slowly introducing complementary foods, infants can receive balanced nutrition to support physical, mental and immune development. Continuing to offer a variety of healthy whole foods as toddlers feed themselves helps establish positive lifelong eating habits.
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