Exclusive breastfeeding is recommended for babies for the first six months of life. After that, mothers can continue breastfeeding their infants for up to two years, but simultaneously should introduce solid foods in their diet.
The World Health Organization (WHO) explains that around six months of age, the infant's need for energy and nutrients starts to exceed what is provided by breast milk, which is why complementary foods become crucial to meet those needs. However, these foods also need to tick off certain boxes. As per WHO guidelines, the right complementary foods should be:
- Timely, meaning that they are introduced when the need for energy and nutrients exceeds what can be provided through exclusive breastfeeding.
- Adequate, meaning that they provide sufficient energy, protein, and micronutrients to meet a growing child’s nutritional needs.
- Safe, meaning that they are hygienically stored and prepared, and fed with clean hands using clean utensils and not bottles and teats.
- Properly fed, meaning that they are given consistent with a child’s signals of appetite and satiety, and that meal frequency and feeding are suitable for age.
Key Nutrients In A Baby’s Diet![]()
In an interaction with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Preeti Nagar, Dietician at Noida International Institute of Medical Sciences College and Hospital (NIIMS), lists some of the key nutrients to add to a baby's diet. These include:
Proteins: Essential for growth and development; sources include lentils, beans, and pureed meats.
Healthy fats: Important for brain development; include avocados, nut butters, and full-fat dairy.
Carbohydrates: Provide energy; opt for whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.
Vitamins and minerals: Iron, calcium, and vitamins A, C, and D are crucial; sources include leafy greens, fruits, and fortified cereals.
It is extremely important that parents watch out for any signs of nutritional deficiencies in their babies, which include poor growth or unnecessary weight gain, lack of energy or lethargy, changes in skin, hair, or nail health, and unusual irritability or fussiness.
Also Read: Essential Tips To Care For A Preterm Baby At Home
How Parents Can Ensure Their Babies Are Getting Proper Nutrition Through Foods![]()
According to Dr Nagar, different types of foods can be introduced to babies at different stages of their development. For instance, at six months, parents can start introducing iron-fortified cereals, pureed fruits (like bananas and apples), and vegetables (like sweet potatoes and carrots) to their babies. At 6-8 months, babies can be given pureed meats, yoghurt, and mashed legumes. At 8-12 months or for babies who have crossed a year, parents can offer soft finger foods like small pieces of fruit, cooked vegetables, and soft grains. Slowly and steadily, babies can also be encouraged to self-feed themselves.
To ensure that your baby's diet meets all their nutritional needs, here are some things parents can keep in mind:
- Introduce a range of foods from different food groups to expose your baby to various flavours and textures.
- Rotate fruits, vegetables, grains, and proteins regularly to keep meals interesting.
- Experiment with different cooking methods, like steaming, baking, or pureeing, to enhance variety.
Homemade Vs. Store-Bought Baby Foods
There are many baby food options available in the market. However, homemade foods continue to reign in terms of freshness. They are also free of preservatives and unnecessary additives. On the contrary, while store-bought baby foods are convenient and often fortified with essential nutrients, they may contain added sugars or preservatives. Dr Nagar advises checking the labels for quality.