Infant Development & Nutrition

A child's tremendous growth and development during the first year of life requires the careful consideration of nutrition. According to the University of Kentucky, a child will approximately triple its birth weight during the first 12 months. Parents should take advantage of feeding times not only to provide good nutrition, but to bond with the child through holding and eye contact.

Newborn Nutrition

One of the first decisions a new parent makes is to breastfeed or bottle feed with infant formula. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends breastfeeding as the best and preferred method. If a mother chooses not to breastfeed for personal reasons or physical constraints, then bottle feeding with formula is a legitimate option.

Breastfeeding Facts

Breast milk is ideal for an infant's digestive system. The vitamins and minerals babies need are found naturally in breast milk. According to KidsHealth by Nemours, breastfeeding may help fight off infections, prevent allergies and ward off some chronic conditions. According to the University of Kentucky, breastfeeding reduces the risk of childhood obesity.

Formula-Feeding Facts

The U.S. Food and Drug Association regulates formula manufacturers to ensure they provide all essential nutrients a baby needs to develop normally. In fact, some formulas offer vitamins and nutrients that breast-fed babies have to obtain through a supplement. However, antibodies found in breast milk cannot be duplicated in formula, so natural protection against infection and illness isn't provided.

Nutrition for Infants Ages 1 Month to 3 Months

During the first three months, breast milk or formula contains all the nutrients a baby needs. As the child develops, more food will be consumed at each feeding, reducing the number of feedings needed. As growth spurts occur, adjust feedings to satisfy the child's needs and increase the number of feedings and amount of intake.

Nutrition for Infants Ages 4 Months to 7 Months

At this time solid foods are usually introduced. The American Academy of Pediatrics currently recommends waiting to introduce solid foods until around six months, but some doctors might suggest beginning at four months. Consult a physician before beginning solid foods. Most times iron-fortified rice cereal mixed with breast milk or formula is introduced first, followed by vegetables and fruits. Start slowly when introducing new foods, and offer only one at a time. Also, allow the child to eat each new food for a few days to determine if food allergies are present.

Nutrition for Infants Ages 8 Months to 12 Months

Meats can be introduced, as well as foods with texture that require some chewing. Cut food small enough, and mash or grind it to prevent choking. Continue to introduce one new food at a time, and allow a few days after each one, to check for allergies. At the one-year mark, most infants are ready to transition to whole cow's milk.

Precautions

Do not give eggs, cow's milk, honey, or citrus fruits or juices until after the first birthday. Fish, seafood, peanuts, peanut butter and any tree nuts should not be given to a child until at least two or three years of age because of their high allergy risks.