Discover the best practices for feeding your newborn in the first year. From breastfeeding to introducing solids, learn how to support your baby’s growth and nutrition needs.
Co-author: YeaJin Kim
One of the first bonding experiences between mother and baby is feeding. While emotionally rewarding, it can also be overwhelming. Your child relies on you throughout their early years to provide the proper nutrition necessary for growth and development.
During the first year of life, your baby will undergo rapid growth and change. By 4 to 6 months, an infant should double their birth weight, and by their first birthday, they should triple it. With this rapid growth comes frequent shifts in their diet and feeding methods.
What Should You Know About Feeding Your Newborn in Year 1?
If this is your first time caring for a newborn, it can feel daunting to know where to begin. To help guide you, this blog post will focus on the general nutrition needs for infants aged 0 to 1 year.
1. Choose a Feeding Method
According to the U.S. Dietary Guidelines, exclusive breastfeeding is recommended for the first 6 months. However, take the time to research and decide what’s best for you, your lifestyle, and your family. Whether you choose to breastfeed or bottle-feed, consider visiting our latest post on Breastfeeding Nutrition for more information.
If you opt for formula feeding, select an iron-fortified formula. Babies’ iron stores can vary based on maternal stores during pregnancy, and by the fourth month, your baby’s iron levels will likely decline as part of their natural growth process.
2. Supplementation
Infants may need supplemented vitamins and minerals in their first year, depending on their feeding method and individual circumstances. Common supplements for babies include vitamin D and iron. Consult your pediatrician about your baby’s specific needs.
3. Introducing Solid Foods
Around 4-6 months, your baby will start showing signs of readiness for solid foods. By 6 months, begin introducing complementary foods as you gradually wean them off breast or bottle feeding. You can try plain and strained baby food, soft vegetables like cooked carrots or broccoli, and fruits such as mashed apples or avocados.
4. Foods to Avoid
Certain foods may be difficult for infants to eat, including sticky or hard foods like candy, marshmallows, hot dogs, nuts, or popcorn. Additionally, avoid slippery foods that pose choking hazards, such as uncut grapes. For food safety, do not feed your baby honey or raw/partially cooked eggs and meat. It’s also advisable to maintain a diet low in sodium, saturated fat, and ultra-processed foods for your infant.
If your child displays signs of food allergies or intolerances, discuss this with your pediatrician. Check out our post on managing pediatric food allergies.
5. Cow’s Milk
It’s recommended to avoid cow’s milk for infants during their first year, though dairy products are acceptable. Cow’s milk lacks several essential nutrients required for infant growth and can strain the baby’s digestive system. It’s also a poor source of iron and can lead to anemia.
And that’s just the summary!
It’s normal to feel overwhelmed about whether your baby is eating enough. You can assess your baby’s nutritional status by monitoring their growth and development during scheduled pediatric appointments and consulting with a registered Dietitian.
To learn more about what Dining With Nature offers for pediatric nutrition care – take a look at our Services page.
For more support building a homemade menu for you and your family, head to our home page to download our FREE Nourish At Home Guide
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