Naked Science Forum

Life Sciences => Physiology & Medicine => Topic started by: Polaris on 27/03/2014 00:32:58

Title: Until when is exclusive breastfeeding adequate for an infant?
Post by: Polaris on 27/03/2014 00:32:58

Hello,

According to World Health Organization, it is recommended that infants have breast milk only in the first 6 months.

However, if an infant has no interest in solid food, until when is breastfeeding-only enough for its health development?

Thank you.
Polaris

Title: Re: Until when is breastfeeding-only enough for an infant?
Post by: chris on 27/03/2014 20:58:54

Hello Polaris

exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months is the current guideline, with gentle introduction of solid foods thereafter. There's no absolute rule regarding what should be introduced when though, and in what quantity; in my experience, most babies are unsatisfied with breast milk alone from 4-6 months and so giving them a small amount of baby rice or similar usually settles them down. I would therefore be led by what the baby wants or takes, introducing a range of simple foods that are not overly salty or strongly flavoured.