Babies
True and False: Common Infant Nutrient Myths
By
Dec 10, 2006, 21:30

(NC)-Infant nutrition can be complex and confusing, especially with all the information available. Dr. Peter Nieman, paediatrician, clears up some common myths about infant nutrition among new moms.

Breast milk provides all the iron a baby needs - TRUE & FALSE

Sixty-five per cent of new moms in Canada believe this is true, according to a new survey on infant nutrition. In part they are right -breast milk contains all the iron a baby needs up to six months. By six months of age, the iron stores babies are born with become depleted, so babies require additional iron in their diet.

Iron-fortified formula may constipate an infant - FALSE

Seventy-two per cent of new moms in Canada believe this, while 10 per cent don't know. There is no scientific data that shows any relationship between iron-fortified infant formulas and constipation. The Canadian Paediatric Society, Dietitians of Canada and Health Canada all agree that iron-fortified formula is the most acceptable alternative to breast milk until nine to 12 months of age.

Breast-fed babies always need a vitamin D supplement - TRUE

Forty-two per cent of new moms in Canada disagree or don't know this. The reality is that breast milk has low levels of vitamin D so Health Canada recommends a vitamin D supplement. If you are giving your baby formula, you will not need to supplement with vitamin D because it is already fortified.

There is a lot of talk about Omega-3 & Omega-6, but overall, it's not an important nutrient - FALSE

Twenty-nine per cent of Canadian new moms agree that there's a lot of talk around omega-3 & omega-6 but overall, it's not as important as other nutrients in good infant nutrition. DHA (an omega-3 fatty acid) and ARA (an omega-6 fatty acid) are nutrients naturally found in breast milk. DHA and ARA are necessary for your baby's brain and eye development.

Dr. Nieman recommends that if you are not breastfeeding exclusively choose a formula that covers off all these basics and more, such as Nestlé Good Start with Omega-3 & Omega-6. However, make sure to consult with your health care professional before making any feeding change.

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