What is the recommended duration for exclusive breastfeeding?
6 months
Followed by continued breastfeeding with complementary foods to 12 months and beyond (WHO & NHMRC)
What are the key benefits of breastfeeding?
Optimal nutrition, immune protection, bonding benefits
Breastfeeding is the biological norm
What is the typical volume of breastmilk an infant consumes per day?
~900–1000 mL/day
Volume varies with infant growth
What are some bioactive components found in breastmilk?
- Antibodies (IgA)
- Lactoferrin
- Cytokines, hormones, enzymes
- Prebiotics (HMOs)
- Anti-inflammatory agents
These components support immune protection and gut development
What is the composition of infant formula designed to mimic?
Breastmilk
Energy content is approximately 280 kJ/100 mL
When should solids be introduced to an infant’s diet?
Around 6 months
Not before 4 months
List signs of readiness for introducing solids
- Good head control
- Sits with support
- Shows interest in food
- Loss of tongue-thrust reflex
These signs indicate that an infant is prepared to start solid foods
What should be the first foods introduced to infants?
Iron-rich foods
Examples include iron-fortified cereals, meat, and legumes
What are common issues faced during infancy?
- Colic / Reflux
- Constipation
- Iron deficiency
Colic and reflux are usually self-limiting, while constipation often arises from early solids or low fluid intake
What is the expected growth pattern for infants in the first year?
Double birth weight by 4–6 months; triple by 12 months
Growth monitoring should be done using WHO growth charts
What percentage of infants were exclusively breastfed to 6 months according to OzFITS 2021 findings?
25%
This indicates a lower-than-recommended rate of exclusive breastfeeding
What economic impact could increased breastfeeding rates have in Australia?
$60–120 million/year saved
This reflects the potential cost savings associated with improved breastfeeding practices
True or False: Iron intake in approximately 90% of 9–12 month-olds is adequate.
False
Iron intake is inadequate in about 90% of this age group according to OzFITS 2021 findings
What role does breastfeeding play in infant immunity?
Provides immune protection
Breastfeeding contributes to the development of the infant’s immune system
Fill in the blank: Breastmilk composition changes _______ to meet infant needs.
dynamically
What are the health benefits of breastfeeding?
Supports infant immunity and development, reduces risk of infant mortality
Economic benefits include significant healthcare savings
What should be avoided when introducing solids to infants?
- Added salt
- Added sugar
- Honey
- Choking hazards
Honey poses a risk of botulism in infants
What are follow-on formulas designed to provide?
Additional iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), and vitamin D
These are recommended for infants aged 6–12 months
What is the timing for Colostrum?
0–4 days
What key nutrients are increased in Colostrum?
↑ protein, vit A & IgA
What is the function of Colostrum?
Immune defence
What is the timing for the Transitional stage?
5–14 days
What key nutrients are increased during the Transitional stage?
↑ fat & lactose
What is the function of the Transitional stage?
Bridge to mature milk
