La diversification alimentaire

The transition between full breastfeeding and introduction of a diversified diet, adult type, conferring to the child feeding autonomy must take place around the 6th month of age. Until this age, exclusive breastfeeding is now advocated by WHO. When the child is formula fed, the same delay should be respected before introducing solid foods. In any case, diversification should not occur before completion of the 4th month of life. Family habits and traditions, if in accordance with these global recommendations, may nonetheless be respected in the parents'choices concerning food diversification. Food diversification allows the child to learn new textures, new tastes and new feeding modes, thus providing education to feeding variety, an essential component in the nutritional prevention of degenerative diseases.