WHAT EVERY PARENT SHOULD KNOW BEFORE INTRODUCING SOLIDS

According to the official data of AAP and ESPGHAN, it is considered that solids should be introduced no earlier than 17 and no later than 26 weeks. But age is not the only and not the main sign that it is time. The main and absolutely individual factor is the child's readiness for solids. There is a temporary "tolerance period" when it is necessary to begin the introduction of solids.



Signs your baby is ready for solids:
1. The emergence of food interest
2. The extinction of the tongue thrust reflex
3. Ability to maintain a vertical posture (SIT WITH SUPPORT)
4. The ability to control head movement
5. The ability to take something by hand and bring it to the mouth

If all of the above symptoms are present, then most likely the child's digestive tract is also ready for solids.

TIMELY introduction of solids depends on the individual readiness of the child, provided that the mother understands such readiness and monitors it, and can verify the presence of true food interest.

As a rule, signs of readiness appear from the end of 4 months to the end of 6 months - this is the optimal time for the introduction of solids. For babies who were born premature, the dates are shifted.

If the mother introduces solids earlier, then most likely she relies not on the readiness of the baby, but on other factors (which can end miserably), or it seemed to her that all signs of readiness have already appeared. As long as the child is not ready, there is no point in feeding solids since it does not fulfill any of its functions.

If a mother postpones solids, then she can miss the “tolerance period” when it is easier for the child’s body to adapt to new food, tastes, and textures. And this often leads to problems with feeding, as there can also be a shortage of important macro and microelements.

It should be understood that food interest does not appear by itself. If you do not take the baby with you to the table from 3-4 months, then certainly by 6-7 months the baby will not be interested in your food, and you will postpone the introduction of solids.

Not all kids food interest is very noticeable. Some may just sadly look into their mother's mouth and not demand anything. And even if the child has no obvious food interest at to 6-7 months, this is not a reason to postpone the introduction of solids for an indefinite period. By sharing meals and offering small portions of food, you can develop a nutritional interest and support it.


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