Weaning 101: How to introduce solids for optimal baby growth

KUALA LUMPUR - From choosing the right foods to addressing concerns about allergies, watching a baby grow and develop is one of life’s greatest joys.

As such, taking care of a baby’s weaning process is crucial to ensure their optimal growth.

Subang Jaya Medical Centre (SJMC) Consultant Paediatrician and Paediatric Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist, Dr Ng Ruey Terng said a baby’s nutritional needs begin to exceed the supply offered by breast or formula milk alone around the age of four to six months.

"Signs that your baby might be ready for solids include being able to hold their head upright while sitting, showing interest in food by watching others eat and opening their mouth when offered food.

"Also, if your baby seems hungry shortly after breastfeeding or formula feed and is not gaining weight as expected, it might be a good time to introduce complementary feeding,” he said in a statement today.

He said to ensure optimal growth, complementary feeding is essential to prevent growth faltering and the transition to solids should be gradual to allow the baby to wean from breastfeeding and consume a diet similar to the rest of the family.

Dr Ng noted that it is common for babies to reject new tastes and textures when they first begin eating solids, but the parents’ patience and persistence are important as well.

"Don’t be discouraged if your baby refuses a particular food. As your baby grows, gradually introduce a wider variety of foods with increasing texture and consistency. The frequency of complementary feedings should also increase over time,” he explained.

Dr Ng said child-size portions encourage food acceptance and to do so, serve smaller amounts than what is intended for an adult, usually about a quarter or a third of an adult serving.

He also advised parents to let children ask for more food should they are still hungry and never compare their children’s food portions to their own, as adult-sized servings can be overwhelming.

"It’s crucial to offer a diverse range of nutrient-rich foods to ensure your baby receives essential vitamins and minerals for healthy development,” he said.

Dr Ng said salt and oil are essential in baby food contrary to advice against it, as oil provides energy for growing babies and fatty acid for eye and brain development.

"I’m not saying to add a layer of oil like our curry laksa. Just a dash of any oil will do. You don’t have to splurge on special oils. Having said that, don’t add sugar to your baby’s food,” he said, adding that salt is a source of minerals which help in nerve transmission.

On a separate note, he said introducing solids can also raise concerns about potential food allergies.

"However, research shows that early introduction of foods that are more likely to cause allergic reactions, such as eggs, peanuts, dairy and shellfish, reduces the likelihood of the child developing allergic reactions.

"The rule is to introduce new foods one at a time. This way, if your baby has an adverse reaction, it will be easier to identify the specific food responsible and inform your paediatrician,” he advised.

He also reminded parents to watch out for signs of an allergic reaction, which may include hives, swelling vomiting, diarrhoea, difficulty breathing, or changes in skin colour.

"If you notice these symptoms, stop feeding the food immediately and contact your paediatrician,” he said. - BERNAMA