Nutrition for babies 0-6 months

Early infancy

The body undergoes its most rapid phase of growth during infancy and healthy babies usually double their birth weight in the first 6 months of life
A healthy baby is born with reserves of energy and many nutrients that have been acquired during your pregnancy, particularly in the third trimester
Breast milk or infant formula is the main source of nutrients for the first 6 months of life

Breast milk: a unique source of nutrition for infants

Breast milk is the best food for your baby and contains all the energy and nutrients they need for the first 6 months of life

Current feeding recommendations

In the UK and ROI, Governments recommend exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months (26 weeks) of life

Alternatives to breast milk

Infant formula is the only recommended alternative to breast milk for babies under the age of 6 months.
Most formulas are based on cows’ milk and have been designed to match, as closely as possible, the composition of breast milk

Nutrient requirements

Protein is required for growth and the maintenance and repair of body tissues, as well as to make enzymes that control many body functions
Fat is needed as a source of energy (calories) for your baby, as well as providing essential fatty acids and the fat soluble vitamins
Carbohydrate is another major energy source for your baby, providing about 40% of the total energy in breast milk
Vitamins and minerals play a variety of important roles in the body

Vitamin supplements

All women are recommended to take supplements containing 10 µg of
vitamin D each day during breastfeeding

IMPORTANT NOTICE: Breastfeeding is best for babies. Good maternal nutrition is important for the preparation and maintenance of breastfeeding. Introducing partial bottle-feeding may have a negative effect on breastfeeding and reversing a decision not to breastfeed is difficult. You should always seek the advice of a doctor, midwife, health visitor, public health nurse, dietitian or pharmacist on the need for and proper method of use of infant milks and on all matters of infant feeding. Social and financial implications should be considered when selecting a method of infant feeding. Infant milk should always be prepared and used as directed. Inappropriate foods or feeding methods, or improper use of infant formula, may present a health hazard.