Infant Nutrition Guide
The first year of life is the most critical for brain development and growth. Proper nutrition during this period sets the foundation for lifelong health.
0 – 6 Months: Exclusive Breastfeeding
Breast milk is the complete food for babies 0–6 months. It provides all nutrients, antibodies and protection needed. No water, juice or other foods are needed during this period. Formula may be used if breastfeeding is not possible.
✅ Breastfeeding Tips
→Feed on demand — every 2–3 hours (8–12 feeds per day)
→Each feed: 10–20 minutes per breast
→Night feeds are important for milk supply
→Mother should eat nutritious food and stay well hydrated
→Vitamin D drops (400 IU/day) recommended for breastfed babies
❌ Avoid Under 6 Months
→Water, juice or tea — not needed, can be harmful
→Cow's milk as main drink
→Solid foods before 6 months
→Honey — risk of infant botulism
→Salt and sugar — kidneys cannot handle it
6 – 12 Months: Starting Solids
Start solids at exactly 6 months while continuing breastfeeding until at least 2 years. Introduce one new food every 3–5 days to watch for allergies.
🌅
6–7 months
First Foods
Rice cereal with breast milk · Mashed banana · Cooked mashed potato · Pureed pumpkin · Smooth dal (lentil) · Apple puree
🌞
7–9 months
More Variety
Khichdi (rice+dal) · Mashed vegetables · Soft cooked egg yolk · Yogurt · Soft cooked chicken · Mashed fruits
🌙
9–12 months
Family Foods
Soft chapati pieces · Small soft vegetable pieces · Yogurt with fruit · Soft cooked dal · Mashed rice · Small pieces of banana
Signs a baby is ready for solids: Sits with minimal support · Shows interest in food · Holds head steady · Loss of tongue-thrust reflex