Topic: Breastfeeding and Introducing Solids
Description
Exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months, then the appropriate introduction of solids at six months with continued breastfeeding to at least 12 months, gives babies the best possible start in life.
Do's
- If possible, baby should be exclusively breastfed for the first six months
- Introduce appropriate solids at six months and continue to breastfeed until baby is at least 12 months (for advice, see fact sheets on Feeding from six months and Food allergies)
- Mother should enjoy a wide variety of nutritious food (no food has been proven to upset babies or cause ‘wind’), drink plenty of water and get some rest.
- If mother is not able or chooses not to breastfeed, infants should be given a breastmilk substitute that conforms to the recommendations of Food Standards Australia New Zealand.
Don'ts
- Don’t introduce solid food before six months (health implications include increased likelihood of developing eczema or respiratory problems)
- Don’t leave it too late to introduce solid food (health implications may include impaired physical and developmental growth due to reduced iron and zinc stores)
- Don’t introduce cow’s milk before 12 months (except cooked in recipes from nine months) (health implications may include increased risk of asthma, type 1 diabetes and iron deficiency)
- Mother should avoid cigarettes, alcohol, coffee, cola and other drugs.
Tips
Breastfeeding should not be painful, apart from some nipple sensitivity and tenderness in the first few days. If it hurts or you suspect poor attachment, put your finger in the baby’s mouth to break the suction and start again. If you experience continued pain, see a child health nurse or lactation consultant.
Practical Advice
- Breastmilk contains all the protein, carbohydrates, essential fatty acids, minerals, vitamins and other nutrients needed for healthy physical growth and development until six months of age.
- At six months, the introduction of appropriate solid food is recommended in addition to breastmilk – however, breastmilk remains the most important part of an infant’s diet until 12 months of age, and continues to provide ongoing advantages for the growing infant.
- Research shows that the components of breastmilk enhance and develop an infant’s immune system and reduce the risks of developing a range of preventable illnesses and chronic diseases throughout the lifecycle, including respiratory infections and illness (eg. asthma), eczema, coeliac disease, diabetes, obesity and tooth decay.
- There are also advantages for mothers who breastfeed, including a reduced risk of developing breast cancer and ovarian cancer.
Other Resources
- Booklet: Child and Youth health Information: Your Guide to the first 12 months (given to parents for every baby born in Queensland with the Personal Health record)
- Visit: Local community Child Health Centre (White Pages – Queensland Health, Community Child Health Service)
- Phone: Child Health Line (Riverton) 3862 2333 (outside Brisbane: 1800 177 279)
- Phone: Australian Breastfeeding Association 3844 6488 / Helpline 3844 8977
Related Content
Breastfeeding
Best for baby, best for you
Getting started 1
How do I start breastfeeding?
Is my baby getting enough milk?
Common breastfeeding concerns
Sleepy or unsettled baby
Common early problems - tender or cracked nipples
Swollen breasts, blocked ducts, mastitis
Breastfeeding when you are working or away from your baby
When do I stop breastfeeding?
Drugs and breastfeeding
Formula feeding
Introducing solids
Feeding from six months
Feeding from eight months
Feeding from nine months
Feeding from 12 months
Feeding fussy toddlers: aged one to two years
Recipes for babies
Food allergies
Solids table
Last updated: 20th October, 2009
Review Date: 10th November, 2006
