## WHO and IAP Recommendation for Exclusive Breastfeeding **Key Point:** Exclusive breastfeeding is recommended for the first 6 months of life, after which complementary feeding is introduced while continuing breastfeeding up to 2 years or beyond. ### Timeline of Infant Feeding | Age | Feeding Recommendation | | --- | --- | | 0–6 months | Exclusive breastfeeding only | | 6–24 months | Breastfeeding + complementary foods | | Beyond 24 months | Continue breastfeeding as long as mutually desired | ### Why 6 Months? 1. **Gut maturity:** At 6 months, the infant's gastrointestinal tract is mature enough to handle and absorb complementary foods. 2. **Nutritional adequacy:** Breast milk alone provides adequate nutrition (protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals) up to 6 months; after 6 months, additional micronutrients (iron, zinc) are needed. 3. **Immune protection:** Continued breastfeeding provides ongoing passive immunity while the infant develops active immunity. 4. **Developmental readiness:** By 6 months, infants show signs of developmental readiness for complementary feeding (loss of extrusion reflex, ability to sit with support). **High-Yield:** This is a frequently tested guideline in NEET PG and aligns with WHO, UNICEF, and Indian Academy of Pediatrics (IAP) consensus. **Clinical Pearl:** Introduction of complementary foods before 6 months increases the risk of infections and allergies; delayed introduction beyond 6 months may lead to nutritional deficiencies and missed developmental milestones.
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