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Infant Feeding

Infant Feeding
Research
and babies themselves have shown that infants grow very well on
a milk-based diet for the first six months of life - that is breast
milk or a carefully prepared infant formula from a reputable manufacturer.
Cow's milk, goat's milk or canned, evaporated milk are not appropriate
milk based feedings for human infants. Solid foods do not need to
be introduced until the infant is about six months of age.
Breast milk is the most appropriate food for all newborns. It has
a very complex nutritional profile that changes over time as an
individual feeding progresses and over time as the infant grows
and develops. Breastfeeding promotes bonding between mother and
baby, reduces the incidence of stomach and intestinal upsets in
baby and reduces the incidence of food allergy later in life. However,
breastfeeding may not be the most appropriate method for all mothers.
Formula feeding can be appropriately conducted and is highly acceptable
as a substitute. Breast milk, however, is more sophisticated nutritionally
and can never be completely replaced as the most nutritious way
to feed your baby. There are many arguments for and against breast
feeding but ultimately you have to use the method that works best
for you and your baby.
Most physicians and nutritionists promote breast feeding for newborns,
because it is in fact best for the baby. Don't let any well meaning
person make you feel guilty about your choice - just make a well
informed decision and use your own best judgment, not that of a
friend or relative.

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