A proper balance of nutrition is important for your baby's development. While adequate nutrition can help him to thrive, malnutrition can seriously affect how he grows, develops and learns. It is important to understand what your baby needs so that you can help him achieve full developmental potential.
Nutrition Benefits
The first few years of your child's life are a crucial time for growth and development. In order for your baby to gain weight as expected and develop physically, emotionally, socially and cognitively, she needs adequate nutrition. Nutrition also will help her stay healthy and alert.
Needs
Your baby's nutritional needs vary according by his age and development. He needs only breast milk or formula for the first four to six months, both of which contain the nutrients he needs for growth and development. After that age, he might begin holding his head up, sitting with support and showing an interest in food. Babycenter recommends giving him dry cereal mixed with breast milk or formula two to three times a day when he is ready for solid food. By six to eight months, he can add three servings of pureed fruits and vegetables to his diet. At eight to 10 months, he is ready for mashed protein like tofu, meat and boneless fish. You also can give him dairy products like yogurt and cheese.
Malnutrition Effects
Kids Health states that poor nutrition can have permanent negative effects on mental development. A lack of nutrition can cause your baby to be disinterested in her surroundings and prevent her from reaching developmental milestones like sitting up, rolling over, crawling, walking and talking. Poor nutrition also can cause her to fail to gain weight.
Recommendations
If your baby is suddenly not eating well or does not appear to be gaining weight, or if you are concerned about his nutrition, talk to his doctor. Poor nutrition can be caused by poor feeding, which can be the result of infections, genetic disorders or neurological disorders. His doctor can help determine any underlying causes of poor nutrition.
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