Leading healthcare provider Affinity Health, has stressed the importance of babies getting the right nutrients from as early as possible in their lives.
“Early nutrition for babies is fundamental for their growth, development and overall well-being,” said CEO Murray Hewlett.
In addition, the World Health Organization believes that the earlier an infant starts adopting healthy eating habits, the more likely they’ll be to develop a lifelong appreciation for nutritious foods, maintain a healthy weight and enjoy optimal health outcomes throughout their lives.
Why early nutrition is essential for babies
Hewlett explained that infants grow rapidly in their first year of life.
“On average, babies gain about 28 grams in weight each month, with their birth weight typically tripling by the end of the first year.”
He added that in terms of height, babies grow about 0.6 to 1.27 cm each month during their first year.
Hewlett also stressed that early nutrition supports rapid growth and development during infancy and toddlerhood, ensuring babies reach their developmental milestones and establish a strong foundation for future growth.
He believes that nutrients like iron, protein and essential fatty acids are crucial for infant brain development.
“They influence cognitive function, learning abilities and overall brain health.”
“Getting the proper nutrition early in life can also lower the chances of developing chronic diseases in adulthood, like obesity, diabetes and heart conditions.”
Starting solid foods
In the first few months of life, babies have relatively simple nutrition needs, which is primarily met through breast milk or formula.
“However, their dietary requirements significantly shift as they transition to solid foods,” Hewlett said.
He added that babies usually start exploring solid foods at around six months old and he advised parents and caregivers to start watching for signs of readiness that may include sitting up with assistance, displaying interest in your food and pushing food to the back of their mouth with their tongue.
“Single-grain cereals as well as rice and oatmeal, are traditional first foods due to their fortified iron content, which is crucial as the natural iron stores from birth begin to deplete by six months,” he said.
“Once your baby is used to eating cereals, you can introduce more complex flavours and textures, such as pureed vegetables, fruits and meats.”
He suggested that meals for babies should be soft and easy to swallow, gradually moving towards more finely chopped and eventually small pieces of regular foods.
The role of breastfeeding
For the first year, breast milk or formula should be your baby’s primary source of nutrition, Hewlett stressed.
As they are introduced to solid foods, babies can continue to be breastfed or be given formula.
“Breast milk remains a source of vitamins, protein and fat that are gentle on your baby’s tummy,” he explained.
“Remember, deciding how long to breastfeed is a deeply personal choice for every mother, influenced by what feels right for both her and her child. There is no set time to stop breastfeeding.”
Hydration
If infants are exclusively breastfed for the first six months, they usually don’t need extra water.
But Hewlett said that once solid foods are introduced, parents can start to offer them small amounts of water.
This is backed up by research as the American Academy of Pediatrics suggested introducing a sippy cup of water to babies when they are around six to nine months since most little ones are developmentally ready at that age.
Avoiding unhealthy habits
Sugar and salt: Introducing babies to overly sugary or salty foods can lead to a preference for these tastes, affecting their health later in life.
Hewlett said that it’s best to avoid adding any salt or sugar to your baby’s food.
Honey: Babies under one year should not be given honey due to the risk of botulism, a rare but severe form of food poisoning.
Whole nuts and similar foods: These foods pose a choking hazard and should be avoided.
Monitoring growth and health: Regular check-ups with a paediatrician are vital to ensure your baby is thriving, Hewlett said.
“Growth is typically monitored using growth charts, which consider various factors, including weight, length and head circumference.”
Other ways to encourage early eating habits include:
Creating a positive meal-time environment: Hewlett recommended creating a relaxed meal atmosphere that can encourage babies to try new foods and enjoy eating.
“Keep mealtimes focused on feeding, without distractions like television,” he said.
When introducing solid foods, use baby spoons or utensils: “This helps your baby’s motor skills and gives them time to feel full during meals.”
Avoid putting cereal or food in your baby’s bottle: Hewlett said that this can lead to overeating and hinder their ability to recognise when they’re full.
Offer small portions: Encourage your baby to eat slowly, starting with half a spoonful or less.
Lastly, Hewlett said that parents and caregivers should be patient with their baby when introducing them to new foods.
“Research suggests it might take 10 to 15 attempts before a baby accepts a new food.”
“Continue to offer a variety of nutritious foods while also feeding your baby foods they enjoy.”