Do not give him rice yet start with potatoes.” “Prepackaged foods are harmful to the baby, give him homemade food only.”
These and a lot of other opinions, suggestions, opinions, and choices can leave parents bedazzled at how and what to feed the baby. Child specialists suggest starting solid foods at the age of 6 months however many experts also count in a baby’s appetite and readiness for solids to start foods other than milk. In general, it is safe to start solids in babies aged 4-6 months. an introduction of food prior to this can lead to choking hazards and the rise of food allergies as well.
Here we are attending to the most common questions and concerns about starting solid foods in babies.
What is the Most Suitable Time to Start Feeding a Baby with Solid Foods?
As your baby reaches to 4-6 months of age he is ready to start eating foods other than milk. By this time he loses the reflex of pushing things out of his mouth. He also starts developing coordinated movements required to push food in the back of the mouth for swallowing. Before this age, he has scarce levels of digestion enzymes as well.
If a baby is exclusively breastfed it is beneficial for him to start foods at 6 months. This will ensure he gains the maximum advantage of breastfeeding. To know more about this you can consult a child specialist online or via a call using marham.pk
Why Solids Should Not Be Started Earlier than 6 Months?
The probable risks of starting solids before 4 months include:
- Aspiration means the entrapment of food in the airway.
- Malnutrition.
- Excessive intake of nutrients.
- Increased risk of obesity.
- Stomach problems.
- Food allergies.
- Sleep issues.
What are the Hazards of not Starting Solids by the Age of 6 Months?
Starting too late to introduce foods also has some issues linked to it as has an early introduction of solids. These include:
- Slowed down growth.
- In exclusively breastfed babies it causes iron deficiency anemia.
- Delayed oral motor functions.
- May make the baby dislike solids.
- It doesn’t help to prevent food allergies.
- It is linked to the development of eczema, asthma, hay fever, and food allergies as well.
Are there any Other Cues to Watch for Other than Age Regarding Solids Introduction?
Yes. Besides age if:
- Your baby can sit in an upright position with or without support.
- He can hold his head steady.
- He can close his mouth around a spoon.
- Shows a keen interest in solid foods like attempts to grab your spoon and food.
If he is able of above-mentioned things you can start supplementing him with solids after an OK from his child specialist.
What is the Best Time to Introduce a Baby to a New Food?
You can give him solids at any time. Choose a time when your baby is not too hungry or overtired. Also when you too are not rushed. Understand that it will be time taking and expect a mess. So be patient.
How to Know if a Baby is Allergic to a Certain Food?
- Always introduce one food at a time.
- There should be a gap of at least 4 to 5 days between introducing two new foods.
- If you notice stomach issues, gastric, diarrhea, or skin rashes after the introduction of food, stop it instantly and consult a pediatrician.
Share this information with new parents and your friends who might benefit from this.
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