Growth patterns of breastfed infants and the current status of growth charts for infants.

In summary, numerous studies have indicated that the pattern of growth during infancy is influenced by feeding mode. Compared to formula-fed infants, breastfed infants generally gain less weight, particularly after the first few months of life. This appears to be a normal pattern among healthy, thriving infants. Although true growth faltering can certainly occur among breastfed infants, it is difficult to evaluate using the NCHS growth chart, which is based on a sample of predominantly formula-fed infants. This situation has prompted WHO to begin the process of creating a new growth chart based on breastfed infants.