For the first 6 months of life, which feeding approach is recommended if the infant is not breastfed?

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

Answer: (A)

In the first six months of life, an infant who is not breastfed needs an iron-rich source to support rapid growth and prevent iron deficiency. Iron-fortified formula provides the necessary iron and calories that milk alone cannot supply, making it the best choice when breastfeeding isn’t happening.

Cow's milk is not appropriate this early because it is harder to digest, can irritate the gut, and has a higher risk of causing iron deficiency anemia and kidney stress. Plain water does not deliver the needed calories or iron and can reduce intake of formula, compromising nutrition. Solid foods are typically introduced around six months and should not replace formula in the first six months, since they do not meet all nutritional needs during this period.