AAP infant feeding guidelines

AAP infant feeding guidelines

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) provides guidelines for feeding infants that can help support their growth and development.

 Here are some key recommendations from the AAP:

1. Breastfeeding is the recommended method of feeding for infants. Exclusive breastfeeding is recommended for the first 6 months of life, with continued breastfeeding along with the introduction of appropriate complementary foods for 1 year or longer.

2. Solid foods should be introduced when an infant is around 6 months old. Before this age, infants should be exclusively breastfed or given formula.

3. Introduce new foods one at a time, watching for signs of an allergic reaction.

4. Offer a variety of foods to ensure that an infant is getting a well-balanced diet.

5. Avoid giving honey to infants under 1 year old, as it can contain bacteria that can cause infant botulism.

6. Avoid giving foods and drinks that are sweetened with sugar, including fruit juices, to infants under 1 year old.

7. Avoid giving infants cow’s milk until they are at least 1 year old, as it can be difficult for them to digest and may not provide enough iron.

It’s important to follow the recommendations of a healthcare provider when feeding an infant, as every baby is different and may have different feeding needs.