New Delhi, May 1: Breast milk is considered the most complete and essential nutrition for infants during the first six months after birth. During this period, babies do not require water or any other food, as breast milk provides all necessary nutrients, hydration, and immunity. However, as the baby reaches six months, their nutritional needs begin to change.
Breast milk alone may no longer suffice for the rapid development of the baby’s body and brain. This is where complementary feeding, also known as supplementary feeding, comes into play.
The Ministry of Women and Child Development has advised on social media that after six months of birth, infants should be introduced to solid or semi-solid foods alongside breast milk. This is crucial for the child’s development, as their brain is growing rapidly, requiring more energy, protein, iron, and other nutrients.
Parents can start offering soft and light foods to their babies 2 to 3 times a day. The introduction should always begin with easily digestible foods, such as porridge, moong dal water, thin khichdi, boiled and mashed vegetables like potatoes, carrots, or bottle gourd, and mashed fruits like bananas or apples. It is important that the food is not too runny; it should be thick enough to be soft for swallowing, allowing the baby to gradually learn to chew and swallow.
Initially, only one new food should be introduced at a time, and it should be given for at least 3 to 4 days to monitor for any allergies or issues. Breastfeeding should not be stopped during this time; it should continue as before.
As the baby grows to 9 to 12 months, a more varied diet can be introduced. At this age, babies start to grasp food with their fingers, so they can be given soft fruits, small pieces of vegetables, and light home-cooked meals. It is advisable to provide three main meals and 1–2 light snacks throughout the day.
From 12 to 24 months, children gradually start eating the same food as the family, but their meals should still be soft and cut into small pieces. At this age, they can have three main meals and two light snacks daily.
It is essential to include a variety of food groups in the child’s diet every day, such as grains, pulses, vegetables, fruits, milk, and protein-rich foods, to ensure proper development.
Additionally, young children should be kept away from excessive sugar, salt, junk food, packaged juices, and chocolates, as these can be harmful to their health.
My name is Kuldeep Singh Chundawat. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
