Alimentación en el niño hasta los dos años de edad

Abstract

During the first years of life, great changes occur in both physical development and neurodevelopment, where food plays a fundamental role. From breastfeeding during the first six months to the incorporation of new foods, skills such as chewing, using the hands and integrating into the family dynamics during meals are developed. Complementary feeding includes all those non-dairy foods that provide essential nutrients for growth. During the first year of life the pace of development is very fast, while in the second year this process slows down. It is common for the child’s appetite to vary at this stage, so it is crucial to encourage good eating habits, such as sharing meals as a family, avoiding forcing the child to eat and respecting their satiety signals. A healthy and varied diet should include protein, whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and dairy. Avoiding sugary, ultra-processed foods with low nutritional value is recommended. There are tools for the pediatrician to evaluate the child’s development and diet and to be able to provide information to families about useful electronic resources.