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Complementary feeding: what it is and when to follow it

alimentazione complementare

Complementary feeding is a crucial stage in a child's development, representing the transition from a diet based exclusively on milk (breast or formula) to one that includes a variety of solid foods.

This process, also known as weaning , is essential to ensure that your baby receives all the nutrients needed for healthy growth and development. In this article, we will explore what complementary feeding is and when it is appropriate to start.

What is complementary feeding?

Complementary feeding is the gradual introduction of solid and liquid foods other than breast milk or formula into the infant's diet. This process typically occurs between 4 and 6 months of age, when the infant's digestive system is mature enough to handle new types of foods.

The main goal of complementary feeding is to provide the baby with additional nutrients that breast milk or formula alone can no longer provide, thus supporting optimal growth and development.

When to start complementary feeding?

The timing of starting complementary feeding can vary, but most experts agree that the ideal time is between 4 and 6 months of age . However, it is important to note that every baby is unique.

For this reason, he may show signs of being ready for solid foods at different times. Some signs that indicate that a baby is ready for complementary feeding include:

  • Ability to sit with minimal support;
  • Sufficient head control to remain upright;
  • Interest in food, manifested by trying to grab food or watching others eat;
  • Ability to close the mouth around a spoon and move food to the back of the mouth for swallowing.

Before starting complementary feeding, however, it is always advisable to consult your pediatrician to make sure your child is ready and to receive personalized advice.

Which foods to introduce first?

When starting complementary feeding, it is important to choose foods that are nutritious and easily digestible. Here are some examples of foods that can be introduced in the early stages:

  • Fortified cereals for babies : Usually mixed with breast milk or formula, grains such as rice, oats and corn are easy to digest and provide iron, an essential nutrient for babies;
  • Vegetable purees : Pumpkin, sweet potatoes, carrots, and zucchini are great starter choices. These vegetables are rich in vitamins and minerals and have a smooth texture that is easy to swallow;
  • Fruit purees: Bananas, apples, pears, and peaches can be mashed or blended to a baby-friendly consistency. Fruit provides essential vitamins and fiber;
  • Light proteins: Around 6-8 months, you can introduce small amounts of lean meat, chicken, well-cooked fish, and legumes such as lentils and mashed beans;
  • Dairy products : After 6 months, you can start introducing natural yogurt and low-salt fresh cheeses. It is important to wait until one year of age before introducing cow's milk as the main drink.

Guidelines for safe complementary feeding

First, it is important to introduce one new food at a time and wait 3-5 days before introducing another new food. This helps identify any allergic reactions or food intolerances.

Additionally, baby foods should not contain added salt or sugar . In fact, children's kidneys are still developing and are not able to handle excess salt, while sugar can lead to tooth decay and obesity.

It is also advisable to start with smooth purees and gradually move to thicker and more solid consistencies as the child develops chewing and swallowing skills. Finally, it is important to ensure that all foods are well cooked , but above all hygienic .

Benefits of complementary feeding

Complementary feeding offers numerous benefits for both the baby and the mother. For the baby, this process provides essential nutrients needed for growth and development and promotes the development of chewing and swallowing skills.

Additionally, for the baby, the process helps him develop healthy tastes and food preferences but also reduces the risk of nutritional deficiencies. For the mother, complementary feeding can provide an opportunity for bonding during mealtimes.

In particular, the mother has the opportunity to gradually reduce her dependence on breast milk or formula. Indirectly, complementary feeding directly introduces the entire family to a healthy and balanced diet.

Conclusions

Complementary feeding is a crucial step in your baby's development, requiring attention, patience and good planning. However, you may find that certain foods can cause your baby to experience symptoms such as bloating.

In reality, however, it could be a simple intolerance and this is why before following a complementary diet, you can take a DNA test to find out and understand what other healthy food alternatives to introduce.

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