Final answer:
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that infants be fed breast milk for at least one year to ensure proper nutrition and developmental growth. Breast milk changes during the initial days of lactation, providing various nutrients and antibodies that are crucial for an infant's growth and health. Mature breast milk is the most suitable nourishment, with cow's milk being unsuitable for infants due to their immature digestive systems.
Step-by-step explanation:
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that infants be fed breast milk for at least one year. This duration is essential for the infant's nutrition and development. Breast milk naturally adapts to the infant's nutritional needs, providing the perfect balance of vitamins, proteins, and fats required for growth.
During the first days of lactation, a mother produces colostrum, which is rich in antibodies and nutrients, followed by transitional milk and then mature milk. Mature breast milk contains the right amount of lactose, fat, and protein ideal for an infant's digestive system. This is why cow's milk is not a suitable substitute for breast milk, especially during the first year of life, due to an infant's immature digestive system.
Continued breastfeeding beyond one year can also be beneficial, helping to ensure continued nutrition and protection against illnesses. However, the American Academy of Pediatrics specifically advocates for at least one year to ensure optimal health and developmental outcomes for the infant.