Physiological development of the infant and its implications for complementary feeding
Behar, M.
Indian Pediatrics 24(10): 837-858
1987
ISSN/ISBN: 0019-6061 PMID: 3329151 Document Number: 291034
The implications of supplementary feeding are considered in relation to the physiological development and nutritional requirements of the infant. It is argued that the provision of foods other than breast milk before the infant is about 4 months old is unnecessary and may be harmful in that it can interfere with the infant's sucking reflex, reduce the frequency and intensity of sucking, thereby depressing breast milk production, hinder iron absorption from breast milk and increase the risk of diarrhoea, hyperosmolarity, hypernatraemia, lethargy, convulsions and even residual brain damage. The decision as to when to commence supplementary feeding depends on age and developmental stage of the infant, the type of food available and the level of sanitation.