Exclusive breastfeeding means that the infant receives only breast milk from the mother or a wet nurse, or expressed breast milk, and no other liquids or solids are given—not even water—for the first six months of life.
Key Points:
- Allowed During Exclusive Breastfeeding:
- Oral rehydration salts (ORS), drops, and syrups (vitamins, minerals, medicines) only if prescribed.
- Not Allowed:
- No water
- No honey or gripe water
- No cow’s milk, formula, or top milk
- No semi-solid or solid foods
- Duration:
- Recommended for the first 6 months (180 days) from birth.
- After 6 months, complementary foods should be introduced while continuing breastfeeding up to 2 years or beyond.
WHO and Government of India Recommendation:
“Infants should be exclusively breastfed for the first six months of life to achieve optimal growth, development, and health.”
Importance in Indian Context:
- Helps prevent diarrhea and infections, which are major causes of infant mortality in India.
- Provides ideal nutrition, especially in rural or economically weaker sections where access to safe food and water is limited.