COMPLEMENTARY FEEDING

Complementary Feeding is the process starting when breastmilk alone is no longer sufficient

to meet the nutritional requirements of infants, and therefore other foods and liquids are

needed, along with breastmilk. In order to provide infants with additional nutrients,

complementary foods (foods other than breastmilk or infant formula) should consequently be

introduced to the infants.

Tips for Complementary Feeding

1. Practise exclusive breastfeeding from birth to 6 months of age, and introduce

complementary foods at 6 months of age (180 days) while continuing to breastfeed.

2. Continue frequent, on-demand breastfeeding until 2 years of age or beyond.

3. Practise responsive feeding, applying the principles of psychosocial care.

4. Practise good hygiene and proper food handling.

5. Start at 6 months of age with small amounts of food and increase the quantity as the

child gets older, while maintaining frequent breastfeeding.

6. Gradually increase food consistency and variety as the infant grows older, adapting to

the infant's requirements and abilities.

7. Increase the number of times that the child is fed complementary foods as the child

gets older.

8. Feed a variety of nutrient-rich foods to ensure that all nutrient needs are met.

9. Use fortified complementary foods or vitamin-mineral supplements for the infant, as

needed

10. Increase fluid intake during illness, including more frequent breastfeeding, and

encourage the child to eat soft, favourite foods. After illness, give food more often

than usual and encourage the child to eat more.