Infant Nutrition and Development Flashcards

At what age is it recommended to introduce complementary foods to a breastfed infant according to WHO guidelines?

Answer: Around 6 months while continuing breastfeeding

WHO recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months with introduction of complementary foods at around 6 months.

What is the expected weight gain pattern for a healthy exclusively breastfed infant during the first 4 months of life?

Answer: Approximately 150-200 grams per week

Healthy exclusively breastfed infants typically gain approximately 150-200 grams (5-7 ounces) per week during the first 4 months.

Which component of human milk is primarily responsible for promoting the growth of beneficial Bifidobacterium in the infant's gut?

Answer: Human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs)

Human milk oligosaccharides are complex sugars that serve as prebiotics, selectively promoting the growth of Bifidobacterium species.

A breastfed infant's pediatrician recommends starting iron supplementation at 4 months of age. What is the rationale?

Answer: Iron stores accumulated during gestation begin to deplete around 4-6 months, and breast milk iron alone may not meet increasing demands

The AAP recommends iron supplementation for exclusively breastfed infants beginning at 4 months because fetal iron stores begin to deplete.

Which developmental milestone indicates that an infant may be ready for complementary foods?

Answer: Ability to sit with minimal support and bring objects to the mouth

The ability to sit with minimal support and bring objects to the mouth indicates the neuromuscular maturity needed for safe swallowing.

What is the primary immunoglobulin found in human colostrum and what is its function?

Answer: Secretory IgA (sIgA) provides mucosal immunity in the infant's gastrointestinal tract

Secretory IgA is the predominant immunoglobulin in colostrum and coats the infant's immature gut mucosa, providing a protective barrier.