Author Question: What is the best age to introduce solid food into an infant's diet? a. 2 to 3 months b. 4 to 6 ... (Read 59 times)

ericka1 · **on:** Jun 28, 2018

What is the best age to introduce solid food into an infant's diet?

a. 2 to 3 months
b. 4 to 6 months
c. When birth weight has tripled
d. When tooth eruption has started

Question 2

At what age is it safe to give infants whole milk instead of commercial infant formula?

a. 6 months
b. 9 months
c. 12 months
d. 18 months

Bison · **Reply #1 on:** Jun 28, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: B
Physiologically and developmentally, 4- to 6-month-old infants are in a transition period. The extrusion reflex has disappeared, and swallowing is a more coordinated process. In addition, the gastrointestinal tract has matured sufficiently to handle more complex nutrients and is less sensitive to potentially allergenic food. Infants of this age will try to help during feeding. Two to 3 months is too young. The extrusion reflex is strong, and the child will push food out with the tongue. No research indicates that the addition of solid food to a bottle has any benefit. Infant birth weight doubles at 1 year. Solid foods can be started earlier. Tooth eruption can facilitate biting and chewing; most infant foods do not require this ability.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: C
The American Academy of Pediatrics does not recommend the use of cow's milk for children younger than 12 months. At 6 and 9 months, the infant should be receiving breast milk or iron-fortified commercial infant formula. At age 18 months, milk and formula are supplemented with solid foods, water, and some fruit juices.