Importance of complementary feeding
After 6 months of age, breastfed infants find it increasingly difficult to meet their nutritional needs from human milk alone. And most babies are developmentally ready for other foods by around 6 months. In a setting with very poor environmental hygiene, waiting longer than 6 months to introduce complementary foods can reduce exposure to foodborne diseases. However, because infants at this age are beginning to actively explore their environment, they are exposed to microbial contaminants through soil and objects even if they are not provided with complementary foods. Thus, the recommended age for introducing complementary foods is 6 months.
Children are more vulnerable to malnutrition during the period of complementary feeding. Complementary foods are often of insufficient nutritional quality, or they are given too early or too late, in too small amounts, or not often enough. Premature cessation or reduction in the frequency of breastfeeding contributes to insufficient nutrient and energy intake for infants over 6 months.
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