Newborn Nutrition: Key Feeding Guidelines for the First Year

Introduction

As you enter the final trimester of pregnancy, it’s natural to start thinking ahead—and that often includes conversations with your doctor, doula, or dietitian about how you’ll feed your baby during the first year of life. Many parents-to-be find themselves wondering:

• Should I choose formula or breast milk?
• Do I need to supplement? 
• When do I introduce solids?
• How do I introduce them safely?
• What about common allergens?

These are all valid—and very common—questions. The first year is full of nutrition milestones, both for you and your baby. What and how you feed your baby plays a vital role in their growth, development, and lifelong relationship with food. It’s also one of the most important and empowering responsibilities you’ll take on as a new parent. During this year, your baby will grow at a remarkable pace—doubling their birth weight by 4 to 6 months and tripling it by their first birthday. With this rapid growth comes a series of feeding transitions, each one building the foundation for healthy habits ahead. In this guide to Year 1: Infant Nutrition, we’ll walk through the key nutrition milestones together and address your most pressing questions—step by step.

Nutrition in the First Year

Should I choose formula or breast milk?

According to the U.S. Dietary Guidelines, exclusive breastfeeding is recommended for the first 6 months. But ultimately, the best choice is the one that works for you, your lifestyle, and your family. Take time to explore your options and make a decision that feels right for you—whether that’s breastfeeding, formula feeding, or a combination of both. It’s not always an easy choice, and that’s okay. Check out our latest post, The Ins and Outs of Nutrition & Breastfeeding, for more insight. If you choose to formula feed, opt for an iron-fortified formula. Iron stores in babies can vary depending on the mother’s iron levels during pregnancy, and most infants begin to experience a natural decline in iron by around 4 months of age. I always remind new parents: the best choice is the one you can feel confident in. Once you’ve made your decision, trust it. Learn your options, advocate for yourself (especially in the hospital setting), and know you’re doing what’s best for your baby and your family.

Supplementation 

A common question for new parents is: What is my baby getting from breast milk—and what might they be missing? With formula, nutrient content is listed right on the label. With breast milk, it’s less visible—but human milk generally provides everything an infant needs under typical circumstances, including key vitamins like C, E, and most B vitamins. Still, there are a few nutrients to be aware of that may require supplementation:

Vitamin D

Because vitamin D is mainly synthesized through sun exposure (which isn’t recommended for infants), the AAP advises that all breastfed infants receive a vitamin D supplement of 400 IU (10 mcg) per day—unless they’re consuming over 27 ounces of vitamin D-fortified formula daily.

Iron

By around 4 months, exclusively or partially breastfed babies may need an oral iron supplement to support rapid growth—especially before iron-rich solids are introduced. At this point, breast milk alone may not meet their needs.

Fluoride

After 6 months, depending on your family’s water source, your pediatrician may recommend a fluoride supplement to support developing teeth. Important Reminder: Always speak with your pediatrician before starting any supplement. This information is meant to educate—not to replace individualized medical advice.

When do I introduce solids?

Most babies are ready to begin solids between 4–6 months of age. By around 6 months, you’ll start introducing complementary foods alongside breast or bottle feeding as part of a gradual weaning process. Look for signs of readiness, including:

• The ability to hold their head up steadily
• Showing interest in food (e.g., watching you eat or opening their mouth when food approaches)
• Managing food in their mouth (do they swallow or let it dribble out?)
• Doubling their birth weight, which can indicate developmental readiness

Always check with your Pediatrician or a Registered Dietitian before starting your baby on solids, to ensure the timing and approach are right for your child’s individual needs.

How Do I Introduce Solids Safely?

For tips on safely starting solids—what to offer, how to reduce choking risks, and how to spot signs of readiness—check out our latest post: Introducing Solid Foods to Your Baby

Need Ideas for What to Feed Your Infant?

From simple purees to easy-to-make finger foods, we’ve got you covered. Head to our post Your Guide to DIY Baby Food for practical, nutritious ideas.

Food To Avoid

As your infant is still young and developing there are foods that may be difficult for them to eat such as stringy, sticky, or hard foods – including candy, marshmallows, hot dogs, nuts or popcorn. Also avoid slippery foods that are choking hazards such as uncut grapes. And for food safety purposes, it is advised that you not feed your baby honey or raw/partially cooked eggs and meat.  Additionally, parents should consider a diet low in sodium, saturated fat, and ultra-processed food for their infant. These foods were not meant for infants. Besides them not being part of a healthy diet, they can disturb the learning process of adjusting to solid foods. This is an opportunity for parents to establish healthy, balanced eating habits from the start.  Avoid serving juice to your baby. Babies under 1 years old do not need juice. After the first year, 100% fruit juice, no more than 4 ounces, served in a cup is ok. It’s best to choose wholesome beverages like water and milk.

Cow’s Milk

Lastly, it’s recommended to avoid serving cow’s milk to your infant in the first year. However, dairy products are OK. Cow’s milk lacks several essential nutrients required for infant growth and can burden the baby’s digestive system. Additionally, cow’s milk is a poor source of iron and can lead to anemia.

Common Allergens

Unless there’s a known family history of food allergies or your pediatrician advises otherwise, there’s no need to delay introducing common allergens like peanuts, eggs, dairy, or wheat. In fact, early introduction—when done safely and in small amounts—may help reduce the risk of developing allergies later on. That said, some babies may show signs of a food allergy or intolerance during this stage. If you notice any reactions or have concerns, always consult your pediatrician before continuing with that food.

Key Takeaways

• Breastfeeding is ideal for the first 6 months, but formula is a valid choice. Do what works best for you. If formula-feeding, choose an iron-fortified version.
• Supplements may be needed: Vitamin D, Iron ,and Fluoride
• Start solids around 4–6 months. Signs include head control, interest in food, and doubling birth weight.
• Introduce solids safely. Avoid choking hazards (nuts, grapes, sticky foods), honey, and raw eggs. No juice or cow’s milk before age 1 (yogurt and cheese are fine).
• Don’t delay allergens. Unless there’s a known allergy risk, early intro (peanuts, eggs, etc.) may help prevent allergies. Watch for signs and consult your doctor as needed.

To learn more about what Dining With Nature offers for nutrition care – hit the Explore The DWN Programs button below or take a look at our Services page. Disclaimer: The information in this post is for general educational purposes only and should not be considered personalized medical advice or a substitute for professional guidance. Always consult with your doctor or a registered dietitian before making any changes to your diet, lifestyle, or supplement routine.