Up to what age is it appropriate to feed the baby only breast milk?

Q: Up to what age is it appropriate to feed the baby only breast milk?

A: For optimal growth, development and health, infants should be fed exclusively with breast milk for the first six months of life. "Exclusive breastfeeding" means not giving the infant any food or drink (not even water) other than breast milk. You can, however, give drops or syrups (vitamins, minerals, and medications). Breast milk is the ideal food for the growth and healthy development of the baby; Furthermore, breastfeeding is part of the reproductive process, and has important repercussions for the health of mothers.

The WHO recommends that complementary foods, in addition to breast milk, be given to infants at six months (180 days): 2-3 times a day between 6 and 8 months of age, and 3 times a day plus a snack nutritious from 9 to 11 months. Between 12 and 24 months, they should be given three meals and two more nutritious snacks can be offered, if desired. Food must be adequate, that is, it provides enough energy, protein and micronutrients to meet the nutritional needs of the growing child. Food should be prepared and administered hygienically to avoid the risk of contamination as much as possible. Feeding a young child requires active attention and stimulation to encourage him to eat.

The transition from exclusive breastfeeding to family food consumption is a delicate period. It is the time when many young children begin to suffer from nutritional problems, which contributes greatly to the high prevalence of malnutrition among children under the age of five worldwide. Therefore, it is essential that young children receive appropriate, sufficient and safe complementary foods so that the transition from breastfeeding to family feeding occurs smoothly.

Amounts of food to be offered: