For infants when exclusive breastfeeding is not possible, what is the recommended feeding option during the first 6 months?

• A. Water
• B. Iron-fortified formula
• C. Cow's milk
• D. Solid foods

Answer: (B)

When exclusive breastfeeding isn’t possible, the best option for the first 6 months is iron-fortified formula. This provides the calories needed for growth and the iron infants require to prevent iron-deficiency before their own stores start to decline around mid-infancy. Water isn’t appropriate as the primary drink for a young infant because it offers no nutrients and can displace caloric intake from milk feeds. Cow’s milk is not recommended before 12 months because it is hard to digest, provides less iron, and can contribute to iron-deficiency anemia and other intestinal issues. Solid foods are introduced later, around 6 months, as a supplement to milk feeds rather than the main source of nutrition in the first half-year.