From six months of life, in addition to breast milk, the baby is already prepared to consume other foods, to maintain proper growth and development, since, at this age, breast milk, by itself, does not contain all the necessary nutrients. This process of consuming foods other than breast milk is known as supplementary feeding.
He Ministry of Health remember that complementary feeding is important, because it provides energy, protein, vitamins and minerals that the baby needs according to his age, for good growth and development, and to prevent nutritional deficiencies.
With complementary feeding, babies learn to chew food that are no longer liquid in consistency, but in the form of pureed, ground, minced or crumbledmeal time is a period of learning and love, where eye contact with the baby is established and conversation is generated.
Ensuring adequate breastfeeding and complementary feeding helps to prevent both malnutrition, vitamin and mineral deficiencies, as well as obesity in the early stages of life. Breastfeeding is recommended, even up to two years of the baby.
Some Tips for taking complementary food:
– Choose foods that the mother eats regularly.
– Start with small portions and increase in quantity, texture and variety.
– As the baby grows, continue to offer the breast frequently.
– Feed without forcing, paying attention to hunger and satiety signals, slowly and patiently.
– It is normal that, at first, they reject food, minimize distractions and avoid deception and manipulation.
