The key role of the pediatrician in guiding the healthy nutrition of the baby from birth to one year old Nutrition of the baby from birth forms the basis of his physical health, mental development and safety. In this way, parents are faced with challenges such as breastfeeding, choosing powdered milk, the right time to start complementary foods, and food sensitivities. In such a situation, the pediatrician plays a very important role in monitoring, educating and guiding families towards the right food choices. In this article, we will examine the pediatrician's role in setting the infant's nutritional plan, key points for each stage of development, and common infant feeding problems. The importance of seeing a doctor for baby feeding The first year of life is a critical period when the foundations of the baby's brain, muscle and immune development are formed. Proper nutrition is vital this year and should be done under the supervision of a doctor, because: - Baby's growth should be monitored regularly. - Weight gain and height increase should be in accordance with the standards. - Possible problems such as underweight, reflux, constipation or food allergies are identified in time. - Choosing the right time to start complementary foods prevents the occurrence of allergies and malnutrition. Baby feeding steps under doctor's supervision Nutrition from birth to 6 months: only milk During this period, the baby should be fed exclusively with breast milk or, if it is not possible, suitable formula as prescribed by the doctor. The doctor helps in this step: - The baby should be properly attached to the mother's breast. Check the status of weighing. - If necessary, vitamin D supplements should be prescribed. Check reflux or milk allergy. Note: Some babies suffer from jaundice, colic or bloating, which the doctor manages by modifying the mother's diet or prescribing supplements. Starting complementary food (6 to 12 months) The doctor usually recommends starting complementary foods between 4 and 6 months of age, according to the baby's readiness. Signs of the baby's readiness for complementary food: - Head and neck control - Tendency to take food with hands - Reduction of tongue sticking out reflex - Interest in seeing food The doctor's guide to nutrition at this stage: - Start with porridge, almond milk, simple soups - Adding a new dish every week - Introducing each food group to check for allergies - Continuation of breast milk along with supplementary food until the end of one year The doctor follows the growth process with the growth chart and changes the nutrition plan if the growth stops or underweight. Common infant feeding problems and the doctor's role in their treatment ### Lack of appetite or not gaining weight Doctor will check if the problem is from milk, complementary foods, underlying disease or digestive problems. If needed, tests such as CBC, thyroid examination or abdominal ultrasound are performed. ### Infant constipation It may be due to the type of milk, lack of fluids or lack of food variety. The doctor modifies the type of formula or food plan and uses safe medicines if necessary. ### Gastric reflux reflux is common, but if it causes restlessness or weight loss, it needs treatment and sometimes medication. ### Food sensitivity or allergy After observing symptoms such as diarrhea, skin rashes or vomiting, the doctor may remove some foods from the baby's diet or refer to an allergy specialist. Pediatrician checks the order and sensitivity of the baby and personalizes the feeding program. The role of the doctor in formula feeding If the mother is unable to breastfeed, the doctor prescribes the best formula for the baby's needs. For example: - Anti-reflux valve - Anti-allergic milk (HA) - Milk for premature or underweight babies Also, the doctor determines the right time to change the type of milk or reduce the number of servings. Periodic follow-ups by the doctor to check the baby's nutrition - 5-day visit - Monthly visits up to 6 months - Quarterly visits from 6 to 12 months During these visits, the doctor: - It measures weight, height and head circumference - Checks mother and baby nutrition - Answers parents' questions about food, sleep and child's behavior - It gives parents solutions for sleeping at night, meal planning and swallowing training Golden recommendations of pediatricians for baby feeding - Breast milk should continue with food until 2 years old - Avoid adding salt, sugar or spices to baby's food before 12 months of age - Food should be given to the baby slowly with a spoon - Arrange regular meals in a calm atmosphere - Avoid forcing the baby to eat - Family allergies should be included in the selection of foods #### Summary Dr. Mehdi Afshari the best pediatrician in Tehran plays a vital role in properly guiding the baby's feeding path. By visiting regularly, following scientific nutritional programs, and receiving expert advice, parents can confidently feed their baby in the path of healthy and optimal growth. Call 02166602506 to receive nutrition advice and visit your baby.