Healthy eating tips for newborn babies

Healthy eating tips for newborn babies

Introduce solids at about six months of age

By about six months of age, a baby’s iron stores are low and extra foods will be needed to maintain healthy growth and prevent nutritional problems such as iron deficiency.Breast milk is an important food for babies until at least 12 months of age, or longer if the mum and baby desire.

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Introducing cows milk

• Cows milk is a poor source of iron and is never a substitute for breast milk or formula for babies under 12 months. Continue breastfeeding or using infant formula until your baby is at least one year old.
• Cows milk contains higher levels of protein, salt, potassium and calcium than breast milk or formula. This can increase the load on the kidneys.

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Unsuitable foods

Some foods are not suitable for babies under 12 months.

• Honey – there is a potential risk of bacterial infection from honey.
• Tea – contains tannins that can restrict vitamin uptake.
• Whole nuts – should be avoided due to the risk of choking.
• Fruit juice – contains no nutritional benefit and can reduce the amount of milk consumed.

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