New Delhi: September’s Nutrition Month theme, “Complementary Feeding,” underscores a crucial phase in a child’s growth: transitioning from exclusive breastfeeding to a diverse diet. Complementary feeding, which starts around six months of age, is essential for meeting an infant’s growing nutritional needs and supporting their holistic development.
While breast milk provides vital nutrients in the early months, it becomes insufficient alone as the baby grows. At approximately six months of age, babies require additional nutrients such as iron and zinc. Breast milk or formula alone may not provide enough of these essential nutrients. Complementary feeding aims to introduce these essential nutrients, promote healthy growth, and help infants develop important eating skills.
Timing and Indicators of Readiness
The World Health Organization recommends beginning complementary feeding at six months of age. Signs that a baby is ready include sitting up with minimal support, showing interest in food, and losing the tongue-thrust reflex.
Selecting Appropriate Foods
Start with iron-rich options, including fortified cereals, pureed boiled egg with rice, split pulses, and legumes. Slowly introduce a diverse range of seasonal fruits, vegetables, proteins, and healthy fats. Incorporate whole grains for their nutritional benefits. Initially, offer single-ingredient purees and introduce new foods individually to observe any potential allergies or sensitivities.
Fostering a Positive, Joyful Feeding Experience
Provide a balanced diet by including a variety of foods from different food groups. Alongside introducing solid foods, continue breastfeeding or formula feeding throughout the first two years of age. Encourage your child to explore different foods by offering a colourful and varied selection. Ensure mealtimes are pleasant and maintain good hygiene to avoid infections. Refrain from adding sugars and salt, as these are not appropriate for young children.
Conclusion
Complementary feeding is a key step in ensuring infants receive the nutrition needed for optimal growth and development. As we celebrate Nutrition Month, let’s prioritize offering our children a well-rounded diet that supports their growth from infancy to a healthy future.
Complementary feeding is a key step in ensuring infants receive the nutrition needed for optimal growth and development. As we celebrate Nutrition Month, let’s prioritize offering our children a well-rounded diet that supports their growth from infancy to a healthy future. Health News Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare
