Literature review for - Flourish Paediatrics

Breastfeeding is an integral part of the reproductive process, the natural and ideal way of
feeding the infant and a unique biological and emotional basis for child development.
Breastmilk contains all the nutritional requirements for a baby's growth for the first 6 months
and remains the most important part of the infant’s diet, with the addition of family foods,
until around 12 months. Breastmilk continues to be a valuable source of nutrition for as long
as mother and baby breastfeed. Mother and baby should be encouraged and supported to
breastfeed after birth as soon as the baby indicates readiness. Colostrum is all that is needed
for baby’s nutrition until lactation is fully established unless medical advice indicates
otherwise. To develop and maintain a good milk supply, babies should breastfeed frequently.
If a mother’s milk is not available the ABA supports the practise of feeding of another
mother’s milk.
The Dietitians Association of Australia (DAA) (2010)
The DAA support the recommendation listed in the AGHE. The DAA recommend infants
receive only breastmilk until the age of six months and that breastfeeding be continued until
at least the age of 12 months. The DAA do not have a recommendation for when to stop
breastfeeding. For infants who are not breastfed, a commercial infant formula is a satisfactory
feed, and should be continued until 12 months of age. Around the age of six months, solid
foods should be added to the infant's diet in addition to the nutrition of the breast milk. To
maintain the mother's breastmilk supply it is important to offer solid foods after breastfeeding
when starting solid food with the infant. Start with a single grain cereal such as a commercial
baby rice cereal. Gradually increase the texture, amounts, variety and frequency of foods
offered according to the infant's progress with the changed diet. By the age of 12 months
children will be able to share family meals and eat a wide variety of foods.
Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy (ASCIA) (2010)
Summary of their practical advice for parents and families:
Breastfeeding is recommended for at least 6 months.
Breastfeeding can continue beyond 12 months, or for as long as mother and infant wish to
continue.
From 4-6 months commence on solids when your child is ready.
Consider introducing a new food every 2-3 days.
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