Weaning refers to the transition a child makes from exclusive breast/ formula feeds to other external sources of nutrition.
It represents a significant milestone in the childs development, though it can often cause confusion and frustration among parents.
The ideal time to begin weaning would be at 6 months of age.
Babies who:
can support their head upright and steady,
show interest in the solid food you are eating,
open their mouths when they see others eating,
and mouth their hands, toys etc
are all set for weaning.
To begin the weaning process:
1) Babies can be started on cereals, pulses or vegetables prepared in milk as well as fruits while continuing breast/ formula feeding.
2) Begin with single ingredient foods, and gradually increase the number of ingredients.
3) Introduce a new solid/ semi solid every 4-5 days
4) Start with a puree like consistency but quickly progress to more thicker consistencies.
5) Expose your baby to the same food at least 10 times before assuming that your baby doesn’t like a particular food.
Happy Weaning
Department: PEDIATRICS
Doctor Name: DR. JESSICA R S. PINTO