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What should I feed my baby?
The World Health Organisation recommends exclusively breastfeeding to around 6 months of age and continued breastfeeding up to 2 years of age or more.
Exclusive breastfeeding means giving your baby only breastmilk. So no other food or drink, including water, juice, herbal teas and non-human milk (except for vitamins, minerals and medications if your family doctor or paediatrician say so).
At around 6 months, you can start to feed your baby solid foods. Start feeding them iron-rich foods (e.g. mashed meat, fish, chicken, or legumes), and continue to breastfeed up to 2 years of age or more.
Any way you choose to feed your baby, we are here to support your choices and provide you with information and guidance.
Talk to your midwife, child and family health nurse, lactation consultant/breastfeeding support clinic or family doctor if you have any questions.
Benefits of breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is the best option for your baby’s health and wellbeing. Breast milk is clean, does not cost anything, is always available, and is safe for babies to drink.
Benefits for your baby
- Gives them all the nutrition they need until they are around 6 months old
- Helps strengthen your baby’s immune system, protecting them from getting sick.
- Easy for babies to digest.
- Lowers the chances of your baby becoming overweight or getting Type 2 diabetes later.
- Keeps your baby healthier, reducing doctor visits and medicine costs.
- Gives you special bonding time with your baby during feeds.
Benefits for you
- Can reduce bleeding after birth
- Helps your uterus get back to normal faster
- Can help you lose some of the weight gained during pregnancy
- May lower the risk of some cancers and osteoporosis (soft bones).
