Infant Nutrition Basics

0-12 months

Infant Nutrition Basics

For newborns and infants, feeding should be guided by a pediatrician. Breast milk or iron-fortified infant formula is the foundation. The CDC says solid foods can generally begin at about 6 months when the baby is developmentally ready, and introducing foods before 4 months is not recommended.

Practical Focus

  • Use a pediatrician for growth, feeding, allergy, and formula questions.
  • Do not give honey before 12 months.
  • Use safe textures and avoid choking hazards.
  • Introduce foods gradually and watch for reactions.
  • Do not use adult detox, fasting, supplement, or cleanse approaches for infants.

Sources

  1. Dietary Guidelines for Americans – Federal dietary guidance for healthy eating patterns across the lifespan.
  2. CDC: When, What, and How to Introduce Solid Foods – Infant feeding timing and readiness guidance.
  3. CDC: Foods and Drinks for 6 to 24 Month Olds – Complementary feeding, beverages, and early-life nutrition safety.
  4. CDC: How Much and How Often To Feed – Practical toddler meal and snack rhythm guidance.
  5. CDC: Adult Physical Activity Guidance – At least 150 minutes weekly of moderate activity plus 2 days of strengthening.
  6. HHS: Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans – Life-stage physical activity recommendations.
  7. CDC: Sleep and Sleep Disorders – Public health information on sleep and health.
  8. NCCIH: Detoxes and Cleanses – Safety concerns and evidence limitations around cleansing programs.
  9. NCCIH: Meditation and Mindfulness – Evidence and safety overview for meditation and mindfulness practices.
  10. NIH Office of Dietary Supplements – Vitamin, mineral, herb, and supplement fact sheets.
  11. FDA: Nutrition Facts Label – How to evaluate packaged food labels.
  12. FDA: Advice About Eating Fish – Seafood guidance for children and people who are or might become pregnant.