Health authorities worldwide recommend exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of a baby's life — meaning breast milk only, with no water, formula, or solid food added. Breast milk contains the right balance of nutrients for a newborn and carries antibodies that help protect against common infections.
Feeding on demand, whenever the baby shows hunger cues such as rooting or sucking on hands, helps establish a good milk supply. Most newborns feed eight to twelve times in twenty-four hours, including overnight.
Common challenges, like sore nipples or worries about milk supply, are usually solvable with support — a midwife, community health worker, or breastfeeding counsellor can help with positioning and latch, which solves most early problems.
After six months, solid foods should be introduced alongside continued breastfeeding, which can continue for two years or beyond. If breastfeeding isn't possible for medical reasons, speak with a health worker about safe alternatives rather than relying on advice from friends or advertising.