The health and growth of a baby largely depend on the nutrition received during the first year of life. The WHO (World Health Organization) recommends exclusive breastfeeding during the first six months of life, and then continuing as a complement until two years of age. Also, during the first year, it is appropriate to start introducing some new foods into their diet.
Breast milk is the first and most important food in the first months, as it directly contributes to development and protects the child from certain types of allergies and food intolerances. It also strengthens the mother-child bond. Breastfeeding should begin within the first hour after birth, as newborns are usually quite alert, which helps facilitate this process.
A strict feeding schedule is not recommended since the baby should request it. Generally, during the first days, feeding will occur every two to three hours, and as days go by, these intervals will lengthen. If breastfeeding is not possible for any reason, formula feeding is an equally recommended method.
Type 1 formulas are appropriate during the baby’s first 4 to 6 months, and it will be the pediatrician who determines when it is time to switch formulas. Just like breastfeeding, this should not be given on a fixed schedule but rather on demand, and in the quantities the baby feels necessary. The baby should never be forced to consume more.
By the time the baby is 6 months old, it is generally time to switch from formula type 1 to type 2, which will complement the baby’s new nutritional needs during development.
Introduction of solid foods.
New foods should be introduced separately in the baby's diet, meaning they should not be mixed together, and it is advisable to leave several days between one and the next. They should be given in small amounts, which will gradually increase so the baby can get used to them.
