World Breastfeeding Week - Is your baby ready to wean?

The WHO advises exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of a baby's life, followed by a gradual introduction of solid foods while the baby is still breastfed or formula-fed for at least a year. Weaning is a critical developmental milestone in your baby's growth. It signifies the shift from breast milk or formula to solid foods. Mothers can determine whether their child is ready to gradually transition to solid foods, though, by looking for certain indicators of developmental maturity.

Weaning indicators

Dr. Shrishailesh Mantur, MBBS, MD, Fellowship in Neonatology at Apollo Cradle and Children's Hospital in Koramangala, Bangalore, disclosed these symptoms in an interview. Baby is able to sit and maintain a straight head, demonstrating an interest in the food you're eating, chewing, and being able to securely swallow soft foods. The tongue-thrust reflex disappears.

How to make sure the weaning goes well?

Dr. Shrishailesh Mantur suggests the following actions to guarantee a seamless weaning process:

To make sure the infant is getting enough nourishment, keep nursing or give formula. In the beginning, solids should supplement milk without completely replacing it.

Start with soft, easily digestible single-ingredient foods such pureed fruits, vegetables, and cereals.

By establishing regular mealtimes, you can help children form healthy eating habits and learn when to expect food.

Introduce a range of meals gradually as the infant grows habituated to solids to guarantee a balanced diet that includes grains, fruits, vegetables, proteins, and grains.

Encourage the baby to start self-feeding with finger foods around 8 to 10 months old to help develop fine motor skills.

Weaning is a lengthy process, and some babies may take longer than others to get used to solid foods, he suggested. Take your baby's cues and exercise patience. To make sure you're meeting your baby's dietary needs and to discuss any worries you may have, speak with your pediatrician. Weaning your kid can be a smooth transition to a new stage of growth and exploration if you take the proper approach.