Babies

Feeding Babies

• Babies require breast milk or formula milk exclusively for the first few months of life.

Why Breastfeed?

• Breast milk:
  • Is free.
  • Is sterile and always at the correct temperature.
  • Contains the correct nutrients in the right proportions.
• Some mothers may be unable to breastfeed or choose not to for personal reasons.

Using Formula Milk

• If formula milk is used:
  • Ensure all equipment is sterile.
  • Follow the manufacturer's instructions exactly to prevent the baby from becoming ill.

Weaning

• What is Weaning?
  • The process of introducing solid foods to a baby's diet at around six months old.

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Guidelines for Weaning

1. Iron-Rich Foods:

• Babies are born with enough iron to last six months. Introduce iron-rich foods like puréed broccoli.

2. Vitamin C:

• For babies over six months, provide sieved or puréed fruit and vegetables.
• Offer diluted unsweetened fruit juice in a baby cup or off a spoon—never from a bottle (to prevent tooth decay).

3. Vitamin D:

• Since babies are generally not exposed to much sunlight, they need vitamin D supplements from birth until they are one year old (as per the Irish Health Service Executive).

4. Introduce Foods Gradually:

• Add one new food at a time to monitor for potential food intolerances.

5. Avoid Sugar and Salt:

• Sugar can lead to tooth decay, and salt can damage a baby's kidneys.

6. Family Foods:

• By age one, babies should be eating the same foods as the family. When cooking for the family, remove the baby's portion before seasoning.

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Key Takeaway

Breastfeeding provides optimal nutrition for the first six months, but formula is a safe alternative if used correctly. Weaning introduces new nutrients gradually while protecting the baby's health through careful food choices.