Breastmilk is the normal first food for babies and continues to be important for the growth and development of young children. Health Canada promotes breastfeeding as the healthiest method of feeding infants as it provides essential nutritional, immunological and emotional benefits while reducing the risk of illness.
Exclusive breastfeeding (no food or liquid other than breastmilk, vitamins, minerals and medicine) is recommended for the first six months of life for all babies, unless there are medical reasons. Infants should be introduced to nutrient-rich, solid foods with particular attention to iron at six months of age with continued breastfeeding for two years and beyond.