Question
Is it suitable for infants under one year old to consume fatty foods? Will such dietary habits have adverse effects on the baby’s gastrointestinal health?
Answer
Infant complementary feeding typically begins around six months of age. Infants under one year old should avoid consuming fats, as their gastrointestinal tract is not yet fully mature, and their ability to digest fats is relatively weak. Each infant has different physical characteristics, and excessive intake of fats may lead to indigestion. Generally, moderate fat intake has little impact on infants, but it should be controlled carefully. For example, lard is rich in nutrients, but it also contains high levels of fat, calories, and cholesterol. For infants aged one year, it is advisable to avoid giving them too much lard to prevent issues such as fatty liver and hyperlipidemia. However, small amounts are usually safe for the infant.