Feeding Babies

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Features

- Target for 150-160ml/kg/day

- Paeds Feeding Hx

New Born

- Breast feeding preferable in most newborns

- Exclusive breast feeding for 6/12

- Then addition of solids + breast feeding

- Up to 12/12+ breast feeding

- Do not give newborns liquids other than breast milk or formula until 6/12

- Unnecessary & interferes w desire for breast milk

- Separate guideline if premature: premature feeding guidelines

Progression

- Solids introduced at around 6/12

- 1 new food at a time wo additives (salt, sugar..)

- New food added after several days to ensure nil reaction

- Begin w low allergenic foods: cereal, rice, vegetables, fruit..

- Increase texture & quantity as tolerated

- Indications infant is ready for solids

- Opens mouth when food offered

- Reaching to grab spoons or food

- Introducing too early may stress digestive system & lead to poor feeding

- Meat introduced 6-7/12

- Expect corresponding change in stools

- Peanuts >4yrs

- Popcorn, carrot, apples >15months: risk of aspiration

- Introduce cup for drinking at 7-8/12

- Delay cows milk as main drink until 12/12

References

Introduction of Solids – RCH: Department of Nutrition & Food Services