Babies

A new born baby grows rapidly in the first weeks of life.

The baby’s diet consists of milk for at least 6 months.

Breastfeeding is the perfect way to feed babies even for the first 6 weeks as:-

·       It provides all the necessary nutrients in the correct proportion

·       It contains antibodies that helps to fight infection and prevent allergies

·       It is not possible to over feed

·       It is free and convenient

·       It can help mum lose excess baby weight

Bottle fed

·       It is expensive

·       It is time consuming to sterilise and make up bottles

·       Care must be taken to give correct amount of formula to babies to prevent overfeeding which could make baby overweight

·       Babies can be prone to infection as they have weaker immune systems.

Weaning

Weaning is the process of introducing solid food gradually to babies, starting with slightly thickened purees and gradually making food more and more solid. Babies should not be given solid food until they are 6 months old.

·       Food should contain iron for cell production and brain development

·       Foods should not contain salt sugar or additives in case of allergies,

Foods should be introduced gradually to encourage a liking for a variety of foods.