Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your pediatrician for medical concerns regarding your child.
What food to have and what not to have
Within the first 6 months, an infant’s stomach is approximately 30% the size of an adult’s, which is why their diet must be carefully planned.
What You Need to Know
- Infants 0-3 months need 150-200 ml of milk per kilogram of body weight per day.
- The World Health Organization recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months, with introduction of solids at 6 months.
- At birth, a newborn’s gut is almost sterile, with a pH of around 6.5-7.0, which gradually changes over the first few weeks of life.
- By 3 months, an infant’s gut microbiome starts to resemble that of an adult, with a diversity of around 100-1000 species.
- The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends introducing a single ingredient at a time, every 2-3 days, to monitor for signs of allergy or intolerance.
- Infants 0-3 months can lose up to 10% of their birth weight in the first week, but should regain it by 2 weeks of age.
The Indian Context: What Research Actually Says
Ajwain and ghee for digestion
Region: North India | Verdict: May be beneficial, but more research is needed.
Some studies suggest ajwain may have carminative effects.
Gripe water for colic
Region: South India | Verdict: May be beneficial, but more research is needed.
Some studies suggest dill oil may have anti-inflammatory effects.
Khichdi for weaning
Region: East India | Verdict: Recommended as a weaning food.
Khichdi is a nutrient-rich food, easy to digest.
Jaggery and ghee for energy
Region: Rural India | Verdict: May be beneficial, but more research is needed.
Jaggery is a rich source of iron, ghee provides energy.
Common Myths — Busted
Truth: Infants 0-6 months do not need additional water, as breast milk or formula provides adequate hydration, with a water content of around 87%.
Truth: The World Health Organization recommends introducing solids at 6 months, as introducing solids earlier than 4 months may increase the risk of allergy and intolerance by 7-10%.
Truth: Infants 0-3 months should be fed on demand, as their stomachs are small and they need frequent feedings, around 8-12 times in 24 hours.
When to See Your Paediatrician
- Vomiting more than 5 times a day
- Refusal to feed for more than 4 hours
- Fever above 100.4°F (38°C)
- Weight loss of more than 10% of birth weight
Parents Also Ask
How many times should I feed my 1-month-old baby?
You should feed your 1-month-old baby around 8-12 times in 24 hours, with a feeding session lasting around 10-15 minutes.
What is the normal weight gain for a 2-month-old baby?
A normal weight gain for a 2-month-old baby is around 150-200 grams per week, with an average weight of around 4-5 kilograms at 2 months.
How often should I burp my 3-month-old baby?
You should burp your 3-month-old baby after every feeding session, which is around 8-12 times in 24 hours, to prevent discomfort and gas.
Key Takeaways
- Infants 0-3 months need 150-200 ml of milk per kilogram of body weight per day.
- The World Health Organization recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months, with introduction of solids at 6 months.
- At birth, a newborn’s gut is almost sterile, with a pH of around 6.5-7.0, which gradually changes over the first few weeks of life.
- By 3 months, an infant’s gut microbiome starts to resemble that of an adult, with a diversity of around 100-1000 species.
Track your baby’s health milestones on the ourlio app.
