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Introduction of Solids
“Don’t assume your child will dislike a particular food (even if they refused it before). Palates do change so keep trying. According to research a food has to be rejected on ten separate occasions by a child before it can be listed 'disliked'.”-Lea Stening
Parents are often tempted to introduce solid foods early to a baby, particularly it the baby appears wakeful, extra hungry or difficult to breast feed.
In such cases it usually means that the child needs to breastfeed more frequently or for a longer period of time, so that the introduction of solids can be delayed until the baby is six months old.
Early weaning is discouraged for the following reasons:
- The baby’s gastrointestinal tract is immature. The pancreatic and salivary secretions, bile acids and starch reducing enzymes required to aid digestion and absorption of nutrients have not fully developed.
- The baby lacks control of its head and neck and the swallowing reflex, position of the tongue and lips are geared for mother’s nipple rather than the spoon at this stage.
- Teeth are absent or few in number.
Lea can help with:
- Practical tips on food preparation and consistency.
- Information regarding the correct order in which to introduce solids.
- How to cope with food refusal, food allergies and intolerances. Recommendations regarding commercial food products.
- Monitoring progress onto toddler feeding.
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Testimonials
“Nutritional needs change with age, lifestyle, physical activity and personal circumstances. Professional dietary advice can assist you in managing these changes.”
-Lea Stening
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