Which statement about feeding infants is supported by guidelines?

Which statement about feeding infants is supported by guidelines?

• A. Breastfeeding is superior for all infants
• B. A mix of breastfeeding and formula is acceptable after several weeks
• C. Formula feeding is the only reliable option
• D. Feeding method does not impact nutrition

Answer: (A)

Breastfeeding is the preferred feeding method for most newborns because breast milk provides the optimal balance of nutrients and contains immune and bioactive factors that help protect against infections and support growth. Guidelines emphasize exclusive breastfeeding for about the first six months when possible, then continuing breastfeeding with appropriate complementary foods. Statements suggesting formula is the only reliable option or that feeding method has no impact on nutrition don’t align with these guidelines, and a mixed approach is not presented as the standard universal option, even though formula can be used when breastfeeding isn’t feasible.

Breastfeeding is the preferred feeding method for most newborns because breast milk provides the optimal balance of nutrients and contains immune and bioactive factors that help protect against infections and support growth. Guidelines emphasize exclusive breastfeeding for about the first six months when possible, then continuing breastfeeding with appropriate complementary foods. Statements suggesting formula is the only reliable option or that feeding method has no impact on nutrition don’t align with these guidelines, and a mixed approach is not presented as the standard universal option, even though formula can be used when breastfeeding isn’t feasible.