Description

Infant Nutrition, Weaning, and Complementary Feeding Counseling is an essential part of pediatric care, supporting healthy growth, development, and the prevention of malnutrition or obesity. This counseling typically begins around 4–6 months of age and continues through toddlerhood. 👶 Key Counseling Points by Age Stage: 0–6 Months: Exclusive Breastfeeding Breast milk is the ideal nutrition: complete, easily digestible, with immune benefits. Encourage exclusive breastfeeding until 6 months (WHO & AAP guidelines). If not breastfeeding: use iron-fortified infant formula. No other foods, water, or juices are needed before 6 months. Monitor growth parameters regularly. Vitamin D supplementation: 400 IU/day for breastfed infants. 4–6 Months: Readiness for Complementary Feeding Begin counseling around 4 months to prepare for introduction of solids: Signs of readiness: Good head control Sits with support Shows interest in food Diminished tongue-thrust reflex Start no earlier than 4 months, ideally by 6 months. 🍎 6–12 Months: Weaning & Complementary Feeding ✅ What to Introduce: Begin with iron-rich foods: Iron-fortified cereals Pureed meats/lentils Then introduce: Vegetables → Fruits → Dairy → Grains Allergenic foods (peanut, egg, fish, dairy) can be introduced early in small amounts if no contraindications — early introduction may help prevent allergies. ⚠️ Avoid: Honey (risk of botulism) before 1 year Salt, sugar, spicy foods Cow’s milk as main drink before 12 months (okay in small amounts in food) 🍽️ Feeding Schedule: Start with 1–2 meals/day, progress to 3 meals + 1–2 snacks by 12 months Offer solids after breast or bottle feeding in early stages 👪 Counseling Tips for Parents: Responsive feeding: Watch for hunger/fullness cues Promote self-feeding as skills develop (soft finger foods by ~8 months) Emphasize variety and textures by 9 months to reduce picky eating Avoid distractions like screens during meals Encourage family meals and positive food interactions 🍼 12 Months and Beyond: Transition to family foods (modified in texture as needed) Whole milk (500–750 mL/day) can be introduced as the main drink Avoid excessive milk (>750 mL/day) to prevent iron deficiency Gradual weaning from bottle around 12–18 months 🧾 Counseling Checklist for Providers: ✅ Assess growth and feeding history ✅ Ask about feeding routines, concerns, and cultural practices ✅ Reinforce age-appropriate milestones ✅ Provide a sample meal plan and food consistency guidance ✅ Counsel on safety: choking risks, safe food prep, hygiene