As the infant approaches the age of one, the digestive and metabolic systems (metabolism) undergo significant maturation. These systems reach a level of functionality close to that of adults. Therefore, from the age of one, additional food components are allowed, including eggs, honey, and fish. Additionally, you can add regular 3% fat cow's milk to the infant's diet. There might be certain advantages to continuing with specially formulated toddler foods at this age, but it's not necessary. It is permissible to transition from breastfeeding or toddler formula to regular cow's milk at the age of one. It is not recommended to feed infants 1% fat milk during their first two years of life, as fat is crucial for brain development and visual function.
Iron deficiency is common during this rapid growth period, and it's important to prevent this condition to ensure proper physical and cognitive development. Iron-deficiency anemia due to nutritional factors can be prevented through a balanced diet, providing iron supplements according to the guidelines of the Ministry of Health, and routine blood tests by a pediatrician. At the age of one, the average child will consume around 1100 calories per day, while at three years old, they will consume about 1300 calories per day. It's important to understand that each child has their own eating pattern, and we should respect this within reasonable limits. Generally, healthy children will naturally eat a variety of foods and the necessary amounts for their development. Therefore, children should not be forced to eat, and it's important to ensure that eating doesn't become a source of conflict between the child and their environment. Children should not be given the opportunity to use eating as a tool to exert control over their parents or caregivers. Attempting to control a child's eating habits can worsen the situation.
The consequences could include disrupted eating habits and weight-related issues both now and in the future. It's advisable to provide food in textures and forms suitable for the child's age and preferences, even if the food might seem "boring" to an adult. At this stage of their life, children enjoy eating independently, and they should be encouraged in this autonomy, even if it results in some messiness. Through this process, the child learns to experiment with different textures and develops an affinity for various foods. Lastly, it's important to avoid giving nuts or popcorn to children under the age of 4-6 to prevent choking. It's also recommended to avoid giving fish with bones to children under this age to prevent digestive obstructions.
If you encounter worrisome difficulties regarding your children's eating patterns, you are welcome to consult with us for advice. To schedule an appointment for feeding disorder consultations with Dr. Esther Mayer at Shaare Zedek Medical Center, you can contact us by phone at: 02-6555307/634.