Infant Feeding Quiz

Infant Feeding

• The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of a baby's life.
• A breast that is producing milk is called a lactating breast.

Hormones Involved in Breastfeeding

• Two important hormones involved in breastfeeding are oxytocin and prolactin.
• These hormones are produced by the hypothalamus gland in the body.

Oxytocin's Role

• Oxytocin stimulates the contraction of the myoepithelial cells, which helps to express milk from the breast.
• This contraction is called the milk letdown or milk ejection reflex.

Engorged Breasts

• When breasts are engorged, the mother should not feed the baby less often; instead, frequent feeding can help to reduce engorgement.

Ensuring Adequate Milk Supply

• If a breastfeeding mother is worried that her baby is not getting enough milk, reassure her that frequent feeding and proper latching can help to increase milk supply.

Preventing Sore/Cracked Nipples

• One of the most important things to do to prevent sore or cracked nipples is to ensure proper latching and positioning of the baby.

Breast Milk vs. Formula

• Two non-nutritional components that are found in breast milk but not formula are antibodies and anti-inflammatory agents.

Introduction of Solid Foods

• The recommended age for the introduction of solid foods, also known as complementary foods, is around six months.
• This is because breast milk provides all the necessary nutrients for the baby until then, and introducing solids too early can lead to an increased risk of allergies and other health problems.

Risks of Late Introduction of Solid Foods

• One risk related to late introduction of complementary foods is malnutrition, as the baby may not be getting enough nutrients from breast milk alone.