NutriDiet’s Cooking Activity. July 11, 2016.
Prepared mashed squash topped with fish flakes + mango cubes as a complementary meal for an infant.
What is complementary feeding?
Complementary feeding is defined as the process starting when breast milk alone is no longer sufficient to meet the nutritional requirements of infants, and therefore other foods and liquids are needed, along with breast milk.
It should be timely, meaning that all infants should start receiving foods in addition to breast milk from 6 months onwards. It should be adequate, meaning that the complementary foods should be given in amounts, frequency, consistency and using a variety of foods to cover the nutritional needs of the growing child while maintaining breastfeeding.
Foods should be prepared and given in a safe manner, meaning that measures are taken to minimize the risk of contamination with pathogens. And they should be given in a way that is appropriate, meaning that foods are of appropriate texture for the age of the child and applying responsive feeding following the principles of psycho-social care.
WHO recommends that infants start receiving complementary foods at 6 months of age in addition to breast milk, initially 2-3 times a day between 6-8 months, increasing to 3-4 times daily between 9-11 months and 12-24 months with additional nutritious snacks offered 1-2 times per day, as desired.
What to give?
Give foods that are mashed or can be chewed easily to avoid choking and aspiration of the baby.
Introduce foods to your baby gradually.
Give frequent, small feedings.
Make sure to give the proper amount of nutrients your child needs.
Infants are now entering the phase where their bodies prepare and encounter growth and development. Nutrients of breastmilk are not enough to sustain the babies’ daily energy and nutrient requirement that is why it is recommended to feed your child foods aside from breastmilk once they have reached 6 months.Prepare foods that are nutritious enough to help your baby become or maintain healthy!
Breastmilk + Complementary Foods = HEALTHY BABY
Reference:
http://www.who.int/nutrition/topics/complementary_feeding/en/