Feeding in the first year of life: emerging benefits of introducing complementary solids from 4 months

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Current World Health Organization guidelines recommend exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months of life. Breastfeeding conveys clear benefits to both mother and child. These benefits are likely to be amplified by prolonged feeding. OBJECTIVE: This article outlines the emerging evidence that suggests possible benefits from introducing complementary solids from 4 months of age in developed countries. DISCUSSION: The human gut may have a critical early window during which it has an opportunity to develop immunological tolerance. Introducing complementary solids from 4 months of age may decrease the risk of food allergy and coeliac disease - immunological illnesses that have become a public health priority. The new draft National Health and Medical Research Council guidelines recommend introducing solids at around 6 months (22-26 weeks). However, given recent evidence, it may be appropriate to recommend the introduction of solids from 4 months of age in the Australian context.