Nutrition for Infants

During infancy, nutrition plays a critical role in promoting optimal growth and development, strengthening the immune system, and enhancing social and cognitive ability. During this first year of life, the infant's weight should triple, and length should increase by 50 percent. Growth and development is more rapid during the first year of life than at any other time. Because of this amazing growth, the infant requires an adequate intake of calories and essential nutrients. Good nutrition, along with a loving, appropriately stimulating environment, is essential for normal development. The Department of Health and Senior Services has gathered these web links to provide information about proper nutrition as well as food assistance to help infants reach their optimum life expectancy and to enjoy better health and quality of life.