Enteral/parenteral nutrition in infants and children

Abstract

Breastfeeding should be encouraged for at least the first 4 months of life; this is the optimal formula for the newborn, protecting it from infections and allergies as well as offering beneficial effects in terms of the child's psychological development. From the 6th to 7th month of life, complimentary food, providing iron, trace elements, and fibers, should be introduced. See Table 2.1 and Fig. 2.1 for a schedule of energy and essential nutritional elements for infants according to age and gender and Table 2.2 for energy data for carbohydrates, fats and proteins. © 2009 Springer-Verlag.