Top Tips For a Sustainable Weaning Journey

Weaning is never easier especially when you’re a new mum. So, here we bring you some top tips that can lead your baby on the successful weaning journey.

Weaning usually starts as soon as your baby reaches the age of 6 months. It is an essential process for a baby’s development because exclusively feeding breastmilk or formula cannot fulfil the nutritional needs of your little one.

But after the weaning starts, mums face many issues in managing the baby and keeping him or her intact with weaning. So, to ease your difficulty, here are pro tips that can help your baby to experience weaning not as tiresome but enjoyable.

 

Let’s start:

Begin At the Right Time

If you are confused about when to properly start weaning, then you can consult the advice of The World Health Organization (WHO), which recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life, followed by the introduction of complementary foods and continued breastfeeding for at least two years. So, it is critical to wait until your baby is developmentally ready for solid foods before introducing them. 

Indicators that show your baby is ready for weaning:

• Sitting up unaided
• exhibiting an interest in food
• Coordination of hand-to-mouth movements
• The loss of the tongue-thrust reflex (pushing food out of the mouth with the tongue)

Do Not Make Haste

Try to introduce solid foods gradually. It is usually advised to begin with small portions of soft, mashed, or pureed foods and gradually increase the quantity and variety of foods available. Always start with one new food at a time, and then wait a few days before adding another. This will help you to identify any food allergies or intolerances of your baby.

Provide a Variety of Foods

It is essential to give a variety of foods to your baby in order to fulfil their all nutritional requirements. For instance, fruits, vegetables, grains, and protein sources provide a variety of textures, flavours, and colours. To keep your baby interested in trying new foods, be creative with your food combinations.

Make Homemade Baby Food

Making a homemade meal is an excellent way to ensure your child is eating healthy, fresh, and nutritious foods. By doing this, you have complete control over what goes into your food and can avoid preservatives and additives. Further, it is also inexpensive and friendly to the environment. To save time, you can also make large batches and freeze them for later use.

 Use Reusable Containers

To reduce waste, storing homemade baby food in reusable containers such as glass jars or BPA-free plastic can be an excellent choice. You can also store and freeze purees using silicone moulds.

Cut Down on Food Waste

Weaning can be a difficult process, and babies frequently reject foods. Avoid food waste by serving small portions and avoiding overfeeding. You can make soups or sauces with leftover purees. Moreover, reduce your environmental impact by composting any food scraps.

Make Use of Eco-Friendly Utensils

While weaning, use eco-friendly utensils made of sustainable materials such as bamboo or stainless steel. Furthermore, avoid using disposable plastic cutlery, which adds to plastic waste.

Encourage Self-Sufficiency

Encourage self-feeding as your baby grows older by providing finger foods and utensils. These skills can be taught through a baby-led approach to weaning. It helps in improving your baby’s motor skills. In addition, it can also help you relax during mealtime.

Breastfeed or Formula Feed in Addition to Solid Foods

Continue to breastfeed or use a formula in addition to solid foods until your baby is at least 12 months old; because breast milk or formula contains important nutrients that solid foods may lack. It also aids in ensuring that your baby gets enough fluids.

Stay Calm

Weaning can be a tiring process for both you and your baby. It is important to maintain a calm and relaxed demeanour during mealtimes, and don't be discouraged if your baby does not eat as much as you expected. Moreover, keep in mind that each baby is unique, and they will eat in their own pace.

Take Note of Your Baby's Gestures

Keep an eye out for signs that your baby is full or isn't interested in eating. If your baby is pushing food away, turning their head, or closing their mouth; it may mean that they have finished eating. So, If your baby is not interested or has had enough, do not force them to eat.

Serve Water

To keep your baby hydrated, serve water in a sippy cup with meals. Also avoid sugary drinks, such as fruit juice, because they can be harmful to your baby's teeth and health.

Carefuly Introduce Allergenic Foods

You should introduce allergenic foods such as eggs, dairy, and nuts gradually and in small amounts. If you notice any symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as hives or vomiting, stop giving the food. 

Consult Your Child's Pediatrician

If you have any confusion about your baby's weaning journey, speak with your baby's pediatrician. They can further advise you on your baby's nutritional needs and assist you in navigating any hurdles that may arise.

FAQs

What are some good first foods for my baby?

Soft fruits and vegetables, such as mashed bananas or sweet potato, can be excellent choice as first foods for your baby. You can also try mixing baby cereal with breast milk or formula.

How much should I feed my baby?

Begin by offering a few spoonfuls of food once a day, gradually increasing the amount as your baby becomes more habitual to solid foods. 

Can I still breastfeed while weaning?

Yes! Breastfeeding can be continued while weaning, and WHO also recommends that babies can continue to breastfeed while moving to solid foods.

To conclude Sustainable weaning is a crucial step towards a healthier, more environmentally friendly future. As a parent you can help reduce the environmental impact while promoting healthy eating habits in your children by following some simple tips; such as introducing plant-based foods, reducing food waste, and using reusable containers.

Moreover, involving children in the weaning process can also help to foster a lifelong appreciation for healthy and sustainable eating practices. Check out Baby Fair for baby products.