Parents can find WEANING both confusing and distressing.
It can be difficult to know what to give your children and when to give them it, especially if you are a first-time parent.
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This is a difficult process that can leave parents and children in tears as they try to figure out what their kids like and don’t like.
Recent research has found that many people find the task challenging, with almost half of all parents giving their babies solid foods too young.
NHS health chiefs advise that infants should not be weaned of milk until six months.
However, around 40% of UK first-time mothers were found to have started feeding their baby solid foods before the age of five months.
Experts warn children weaned prematurely face higher risks of infections and slower weight gains.
Dr Zoe Williams, Central Recorder’s GP columnist, said: “Weaning can be a very confusing time for parents.
“For most healthy babies, the easiest way to cut through the confusion is to wait until your baby is around six months old.
“This gives them time to develop properly so they can cope with solid foods.”
Dr Zoe spearheaded a campaign initiated by the Office for Health Improvement and Disparities in order to help new parents learn about breastfeeding.
A survey of 1,000 Brit dads and moms found that 59% were confused about when they should stop drinking milk.
The OHID stated that babies are ready for eating when they can stand up straight, hold their heads still, and can pick up food and place it in their mouth.
Minister for women, Maria Caulfield, said: “The first 1,001 days are crucial for development and impact a child’s health for the rest of their life.
“Every child should have a solid foundation on which to build their health and I am determined to level up the opportunities and support for all children, no matter their background or where they grow up.”
These comments were made in support of the March 2022 campaign to give parents the confidence and support to introduce their children to solid food.
It is possible for babies to stop drinking breast milk and formula too early, leading to a decrease in their ability to develop properly.
The campaign included the launch of an NHS website called the Start for Life Weaning Hub that gives advice and recipes for babies’ first meals.
NEWBORN TIPS
Vicky Sibson, First Steps Nutrition Trust said: “The introduction of solids is an important and exciting milestone for babies, which can have lasting impacts on their dietary habits and health.
“To get it right, their parents/carers need information and advice that is practical and independent.”
Mum of eight month old baby Rex said: “We started weaning Rex just after he was six months and at the beginning we didn’t know where to start!
“My friend pointed me in the direction of the Start for Life weaning hub, and it was a godsend.
“Everything was very clear and easy to comprehend. We all need inspiration and help from time-poor parents. The meal ideas were great and the recipes easy to follow.
“We also loved documenting all the funny faces Rex would pull when discovering new foods!”
Kings College London researchers previously discovered that breastfed babies who were weaned earlier in life actually slept better and woke up less often at night.