Nutritional Needs Of A Baby: Q And A With Dr. Humayun Iqbal

To know the nutritional needs of a baby is paramount to the lifelong health of the baby. It is a common understanding that the first few years of a baby’s life play a huge role with regards to baby’s immunity to other diseases. 

Dr. Humayun Iqbal Khan is a child specialist in Lahore, with extensive knowledge and domain experience. In his session with oladoc, he touched upon a very important subject: Breastfeeding – its importance and advantages for the child. The discussion covers the nutritional needs of a baby in their early years. He also guides about the different food allergies in babies.

Q.1: What are the common health problems in children?

These problems differ from season to season. For example in this season, breathing problems have increases, respiratory tract infections and pneumonia is rising. This is also coupled with asthma especially in this season. Moreover, diarrhoea, constipation, and fever are common throughout the year.  

Q.2: What type of feeding method is best for the baby? Formula feeding or breastfeeding?

Breastfeeding has been unanimously agreed by science as the best treatment since it is species-specific, the milk animal produces for its own offspring is considered the best feed. World health organization advises new moms to breastfeed their baby for the first two years and for the first six months the baby should exclusively be breastfed. After six months, solid food is gradually incorporated into the diet. 

Q.3: What are the benefits of breastfeeding?

There are multiple benefits of breastfeeding, not just for the baby but for the mother as well. World health organization advises mothers to exclusively breastfeed their newborn for the first six months, even water is discouraged. The mother’s feed is enough to fulfil all requirements of the baby; it serves as a vaccine against several infections and diseases.

It provides lifelong protection to the baby; it even prevents diabetes and heart problems in the long run. It has also been found that mothers who breastfeed their baby have a lesser chance of developing breast cancer. 

Q.4: How much should newborns eat per feeding?

For the first six months, the feed should be given eight to ten times a day. When the baby is adequately fed, the baby sleeps properly and is generally satisfied and at this stage, the baby produces four to six wet diapers a day. ‘

A well-fed baby is neither fussy, irritable or having poor growth. Then from the period of six to nine months, the baby takes feed five to six times a day. At one year this amount reduces to four to five times a day. Then at two years, it becomes eventually three to four times a day. 

Q.5: When should you feed your baby?

According to research studies, the best time to incorporate solids and introduce the baby to family diet is six months. This is called the weaning period, iron is required by the baby to make blood and compliment coordination movements. A baby of six months can swallow food, but not before it. 

If you want to learn more about the nutritional needs of a baby, then watch the full video.

Moreover, you can find and book an appointment with the best paediatrician. You can book an appointment via the website, mobile app or by calling our helpline at 042-3890-0939 for assistance to find the RIGHT professional for your concerns.