Baby Feeding

Proper nutrition is vital for a baby's healthy growth and development. Nutritional needs change at each stage of life. Here is a month-by-month basic feeding guide:

The World Health Organization recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months. Breast milk strengthens the immune system, is easy to digest, and is uniquely tailored for each baby.

Formula should only be introduced if breast milk is insufficient or not available, and always with a doctor's recommendation.

Newborns are usually fed every 2–3 hours.

From the 6th month, complementary foods along with breast milk (or formula) are recommended. The first solid foods to start with include: Vegetable purées (carrot, zucchini, potato), fruit purées (apple, pear, banana), yogurt, rice or corn-based baby cereals.

By this stage, the baby can adapt to the family table. A balanced diet should include vegetables, fruits, grains, meat, and dairy products.

Encouraging self-feeding is important for developing independence and motor skills.

A balanced intake from all food groups is essential. Processed, sugary, and salty foods should be limited as much as possible. Drinking water regularly should become a habit. Appetite may vary; children should be guided toward healthy foods without pressure.

Babies should not be given packaged fruit juices, sugary snacks, or salty foods. Each new food should be introduced one at a time to monitor for possible allergic reactions. Regular weight and height checks should be done, and any concerns about nutrition should be discussed with a doctor.