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Nursing QUESTION #9146
Question 1
A breastfeeding mother asks when she should introduce complementary foods to her infant. According to WHO guidelines, the CORRECT advice is:
  • Start semi-solid foods at 4 months to prevent allergies
  • Exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months, then introduce complementary foods while continuing breastfeeding up to 2 years✔️
  • Start formula supplementation at 3 months to ensure adequate nutrition
  • Wean completely from breast at 12 months and start cow's milk
Correct Answer Explanation

WHO Infant Feeding Recommendations (2021):

  1. Initiation: Breastfeeding within 1 hour of birth
  2. Exclusive breastfeeding (EBF): For the first 6 months of life
    • No water, formula, other liquids or solids (except medicines/vitamins)
    • Breast milk provides all nutritional and immunological needs
  3. Complementary feeding: Introduce at 6 months while continuing breastfeeding
  4. Continue breastfeeding: Up to 2 years or beyond

Benefits of EBF:

  • Reduces infant mortality from diarrhea (by 11×) and pneumonia (by 15×)
  • Optimal brain development (DHA, ARA)
  • Immunoglobulins (especially sIgA in colostrum)
  • Maternal benefits: reduces risk of breast/ovarian cancer, aids weight loss
  • LAM (Lactational Amenorrhea Method): \(>98\%\) contraceptive efficacy if EBF + amenorrhea + \(<6\) months postpartum

Colostrum = first milk, produced days 1–3: high protein, low fat, rich in IgA, lactoferrin, leukocytes — called 'liquid gold'.