WATCHING your baby grow and develop is one of life's greatest joys. As those precious months tick by, the time to introduce them to solid food will come before you know it.
A delay in introducing solids can lead to growth faltering, so to ensure optimal growth, complementary feeding is essential.
The transition should be gradual, allowing your baby to wean from breastfeeding to consuming a diet similar to the rest of the family, says Subang Jaya Medical Centre consultant paediatrician and paediatric gastroenterologist and hepatologist Dr Ng Ruey Terng.
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.
"It's common for babies to reject new tastes and textures when they first begin eating solids. Don't be discouraged if your baby refuses a particular food. Patience and persistence are key," adds Dr Ng.
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.
Child-sized portions are key to encouraging food acceptance. Serve smaller amounts than you would for an adult, generally about a quarter or a third of an adult serving.
Let your child ask for more if they're still hungry. Remember, never compare your child's portion to yours, as adult-sized servings can be overwhelming to a child.
BALANCING DIET AND ALLERGIES
It's also crucial to offer a diverse range of nutrient-rich foods to ensure your baby receives essential vitamins and minerals for healthy development.
The food pyramid is a versatile dietary guideline for healthy children aged 2 and above. It categorises foods into five essential groups and provides recommended serving sizes for each group to help you create balanced meals. This practical tool promotes a diverse and nourishing diet without being overly restrictive, says Dr Ng.
He adds that salt and oil are essential in baby food, contrary to advice against it.
"Just a dash of oil provides energy for growing babies and fatty acid for eye and brain development. Any oil will do. You don't have to splurge on speciality oils. Meanwhile, salt, or sodium chloride, is a source of minerals which help in nerve transmission. Having said that, don't add sugar to your baby's food."
Introducing solids can also raise concerns about potential food allergies. Research shows that early introduction of food that is more likely to cause allergic reactions, such as eggs, peanuts, dairy and shellfish, reduces the likelihood of the child developing allergic reactions.
Dr Ng says the rule is to introduce new food 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.
Do also watch for signs of an allergic reaction, which may include hives, swelling, vomiting, diarrhoea, breathing difficulties or changes in skin colour.
If you notice these symptoms, stop feeding the food immediately and contact your paediatrician.