Question

Which of the following meal choices is suitable for a 6-month-old infant? A. Egg white, formula, and orange juice B. Apple juice, carrots, whole milk C. Rice cereal, apple juice, formula D. Melba toast, egg yolk, whole milk

Short answer

Answer: The best meal option for a 6-month-old infant is rice cereal, apple juice, and formula. This combination provides appropriate first foods, nutrients, and hydration for the infant at this stage of development.

Step-by-step solution

1. Analyzing the dietary needs of a 6-month-old infant

At 6 months of age, infants are typically starting to be introduced to solid foods and continuing to consume breastmilk or infant formula as their primary source of nutrition. Common first foods for infants include rice cereal, pureed vegetables, fruits, and meats.

2. Evaluating Choice A: Egg white, formula, and orange juice

Egg white can be allergenic and is not recommended for infants under 12 months. Additionally, orange juice should not be given to infants at 6 months due to the high acidity and possible adverse effects on tooth enamel.

3. Evaluating Choice B: Apple juice, carrots, whole milk

Apple juice can be introduced at 6 months but should be limited as it may displace other nutrients. Carrots, in the form of a puree, can be a suitable food for a 6-month-old infant. However, whole cow's milk is not recommended for infants under 12 months due to its high protein content and potential renal solute load.

4. Evaluating Choice C: Rice cereal, apple juice, formula

Rice cereal can be an appropriate first food for a 6-month-old infant, providing iron and other essential nutrients. Apple juice should be limited, but can be introduced at this age. Formula provides essential nutrition for infants and is a suitable choice.

5. Evaluating Choice D: Melba toast, egg yolk, whole milk

Melba toast may not be an appropriate choice due to the texture and potential choking risk. Egg yolk can be introduced, but it's better to offer a variety of pureed foods at this stage. Whole milk, as mentioned earlier, is not recommended for infants under 12 months.

6. Determining the best meal choice

Based on the analysis of the given meal choices and the dietary needs of a 6-month-old infant, it is clear that the best option is C. Rice cereal, apple juice, and formula. The rice cereal is a suitable first food, the apple juice can be introduced in moderation, and the formula provides essential nutrients for a 6-month-old infant.