Moving on from Milk

In this section we want to give you some tips on how to move from milk to food! This can be an eye opener for those who have not done it before.

 

Breastfeeding as we all know is the best option for babies up to 6 months – but then what!!! Here’s some tips on how to start to introduce solids.

 

In recent years the advice on when to start weaning is constantly changing. One Mum might have been told a few years ago to start weaning at 4 months and now most are told 6 months. However, despite all the confusing advice it is best to listen to your baby. If he/she is showing signs of wanting to try solids, in advance of the official guideline of 6 months, then just discuss it with your health visitor and they will help you with this.

 

By 6 months babies will be physically ready to start eating solids. They can sit up without support, control their heads and move food around in their mouths. Their digestive and immune systems are also stronger and they are likely to be interested in new foods. At six months a baby will still however need at least 600mls of milk a day as well.

 

The best approach is to offer solids slowly. Start with solids at one meal time and change the food every three days so the baby has time to get used to the taste, flavour and texture. That way you can also look out for any allergies.

 

What to avoid

 

Low fat foods

Cows milk or Soya milk as a drink

Salted and Smoked foods

Artificial Sweetners

Whole Nuts

Too much sugar

Tea and Coffee

Shellfish, shark or swordfish

Unpasturised Cheese

Honey

Soft Boiled Egg

Too many high fibre foods

 

Weaning Winners – Follow these tips for safe and stress free feeding

* Always stay close by when your baby is eating to make sure they don’t choke. * Make sure food is heated throughout, then allow it to cool, stir well and test that it’s the right temperature before feeding your baby.
* Go at your baby’s pace and take things slowly. He needs to learn to move food around with his tongue and swallow it, this will take time. * Don’t spend a long time trying to persuade your baby to eat more. Most babies know when they’ve had enough.
* Be patient – remember that, until now, your baby’s food has come in a continuous stream and he might get frustrated when there is a pause. * Encourage your baby to help with feeding when he shows an interest – give him a spoon to hold, whilst you spoon in most of the food yourself.
* It can be dangerous to refreeze or reheat previously warmed food – so only spoon out and warm the amount you need. * Shop bought baby food is a great way to save tine but do try to prepare fresh home cooked food when you can.

 

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