Breastfeeding and dietary diversification: how to do it?
WHO (World Health Organization) recommendsfeeding within the first six months of life of the child, then the gradual introduction of other foods. But breast milk remains the mainstay until at least one year old. Beyond, thefeeding comes in addition and continues until the age of two, and more.
When to start?
National and international recommendations are unanimous on the benefits offeeding maternal exclusive until the age of six months and the introduction of solid foods from the middle of the first year. However, the age of dietary diversity varies from case to case, a child fed industrial milk can begin to eat his first fruits and vegetables at the age of four months. Food diversification is based on the same principles asfeeding on demand, namely, the signals emitted by the baby. Several signs show that your child is ready: he starts to sit alone, he carries the objects to his mouth, he is interested in what you eat and he tries to catch the food. At six months, the child's digestive system is mature enough to digest other foods than milk.
What quantities to give?
At the beginning of the dietary diversification, breast milk remains the main food to favor. Its nutritional value covers all baby's needs: lipids, carbohydrates, proteins, minerals and vitamins. The introduction of solid foods is intended to introduce the child to new flavors and new textures, alongside breast milk. These do not replace milk.
According to the WHO multi-center study, children on average have six feeds and 9 feedings at six months; at nine months 7 feedings and 4 meals; at twelve months 5 feeds and 4.5 meals.
All children do not react the same way to this change. Some consume tiny quantities of solids for several weeks (or even months), while others will quickly need larger quantities. Some will want to experiment alone with foods that are easy to handle, while others will only accept smooth or crushed textures.
In conclusion :
Breast milk is a quality food, complete, that perfectly meets the nutritional needs of the child. And this, whatever the age of the baby. Dietary diversification should be considered as a supplement and not a substitute for breast milk. The child must continue to feed on demand.
For that, the WHO recommends:
- Not to decrease the number of feedings
- To give solid food to the spoon (not to bottle)
- To respect the rhythm and the needs of the child
- To choose healthy and balanced foods
