Question

After how many months should children be given complementary food?

• A. 3 months
• B. 6 months
• C. 8 months
• D. 9 months

Hint:

Remember the "Rule of 6" for infant feeding: exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months, and introduction of complementary foods at 6 months.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Complementary feeding is the process of introducing other foods and liquids to an infant's diet alongside breast milk or formula. This is done when milk alone is no longer sufficient to meet the infant's growing nutritional needs. [1, 12, 15, 30] The timing for this introduction is based on global health recommendations.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The World Health Organization (WHO) and other major health bodies recommend exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months of a baby's life. Around the age of 6 months, an infant's needs for energy and nutrients start to exceed what can be provided by breast milk alone. At this stage, the infant is also developmentally ready to consume other foods. Therefore, complementary foods should be introduced at 6 months of age to complement their milk intake. Introducing solids before 4 months is not recommended, and delaying beyond 6 months may lead to growth faltering.

Step 3: Final Answer:
According to guidelines from the World Health Organization (WHO), children should be given complementary food starting at 6 months of age.