6 months old is often considered a suitable time to start weaning for children. However, many parents, because they are worried that their children lack nutrients, give their babies too many types of food at the same time. This sometimes makes it difficult for the child's digestive system to adapt.
According to recommendations from the World Health Organization, children should be exclusively breastfed in the first 6 months of life. After this stage, weaning needs to be started gradually with simple and easy-to-digest foods.
Do not give children too many types of food at the same time
In the early stages of weaning, the child's digestive system is still very sensitive. If parents give the baby too many new foods at the same time, the child's body may have difficulty adapting, and may even easily encounter digestive disorders.
Avoid inappropriate foods
According to recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics, children under 1 year old should not eat honey, foods that are too salty or processed dishes. These foods can affect children's health.
Get your baby used to food step by step
Nutrition experts often advise parents to start with simple dishes such as flour, thin porridge or mashed vegetables. Then gradually add other foods so that the baby has time to get used to them.
According to information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, introducing each new type of food a few days apart also helps parents easily recognize if children have signs of allergies.
The weaning stage is an important step in the child's development. When feeding the baby properly, suitable for each stage, parents not only help their children absorb nutrients better but also create a foundation for healthy eating habits later.