What is weaning Weaning means to free from a habit Process of gradual and progressive transfer of the baby from breastfeeding to the usual family diet.
Weaning doesn’t mean discontinuity of breast feeding. Weaning foods are given in addition of breast feed when the amount of breast milk is inadequate
Things to be remembered while weaning Weaning foods should provide extra requirement as per need of the baby Initially small amount should be given then increase gradually in course of a week Weaning should be started between 5 to 6 months of age but breastfeeding to be continued upto 2 years of age Never force the child, only give when the child id hungry The basic goal is for the baby to try new textures and tastes Delayed weaning results in malnutrition and growth failure
Look out for the following Indigestion abdominal pain Vomiting Diarrhea Skin rashes lethargy
Points to remember while preparing and storing weaning foods Hands – carefully washed with soap and water before preparing food Utensils – washed and scrubbed thoroughly Keep the cooking and cutting place neat and clean
The food should be Fresh for weaning Prepared immediately Cooked and boiled well Mashed with clean pestle, fork and spoon Use clean water for washing and making weaning food Don’t store for more than 2 hours
Complimentary foods at different age groups
AT 5-6 MONTHS Initiated with fresh fruit juices 1-2 teaspoons at first Should be increased to 4-6 times per day
At 6-7 months Soft mixture of rice and dal Khichri, pulses Mashed and boiled potatoes Bread and chappati soaked in milk or dal Mashed fruits like banana, mango, papaya etc
These foods can be given 3-4 spoons initially And then increased gradually to 6-8 times per day Breastfeeding should be continued
7-9 months Egg white and yolk Curd, ragi porridge , biscuits soaked in milk, vegetables boiled with rice Foods should be mashed for easy swallowing
9-12 months more variety of household foods can be added Can eat everything cooked at home spiced and condiments must be avoided No need for mashed food but should be soft Breastfeedng should be continued Can be given 4-5 times/day
12-18 months All foods cooked at home can be given Breast feeding should be continued especially at night
Some points to remember Strict cleanliness – hands washed, nails kept short before preparation and handling of the feeds New food should be given in small quantities at first and then increased slowly One food should be continued for 3-4 days before introducing another food
this is a slow process, have patience and allow the baby to adapt to the dietary changes Weaning foods should be well balanced nutritionally Child’s likes and dislikes have to be considered Watch out for any food allergies