Feeding guidelines for infants

Initiate breastfeeding as soon as possible after birth; the very first food for newborns should be colostrum.

 

Keep exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life.

 

Practice responsive feeding which helps establish a healthy lifestyle.

 

Vitamin D supplementation should be given within the first few days after birth; calcium supplementation is unnecessary.

 

Infant formula is only an option when the mother is unable to breastfeed.

 

Monitor infant’s anthropometric data to ensure healthy growth.

 

Introduce solid foods in addition to breast feeding starting at six months of age.

 

Start with iron-fortified pureed food and gradually increase food variety.

 

Adopt responsive feeding, encourage eating but do not force feed.

 

Avoid seasonings in solid foods, limit the intake of table salt and sugar.

 

Emphasize food hygiene and safety.