When is the best time to introduce solid foods to your infant? Is it time to ween them off of breast milk or the formula? These are questions that hundreds, even thousands of mothers have everyday. I am here to offer some sound advice.
You shouldn't be in such a rush to take your infant off of breast milk (or the formula). Breast milk provides all of the necessary nutrients that your growing infant needs during the early stages of life. Formulas are also good because most are supplemented with vitamin D and iron. These are essential to a growing infant. Trying to feed your child “solid foods” to early could cause some complications. There are, in fact some serious risks associated with premature feeding of solid foods.
I have been reading various doctors reports on this subject, and most have the exact same information about this subject. Here are some point’s and information that they all say.
- Some infants will appear unsatisfied with both breast and bottle feeding. This is a natural occurrence. It only means that they have accelerated growth. It seems as though they are always hungry and demanding. The way to resolve this issue is by increasing the volume and frequency of their feedings. This can also mean that they are preparing for the introduction to solid food, but haven’t reached that stage yet.
- Young infants have a natural reflex called the “extrusion reflex”. This reflex causes them to push away something placed in their mouth. They are definitely not ready for solid foods during this stage, so you shouldn't try to force them to eat from a spoon until this natural reflex is no longer visible.
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, they recommend that you do not introduce solid foods until four to six months down the line. This is to ensure that their baby stomach (gastrointestinal system) has time to develop the ability to digest and metabolize food. I hope that you find this information useful.
Sincerely,
The Caring Mom
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