Starting your baby on solids - KICBUMP with Boob to Food
Aug 29, 2023
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Guests Luka McCabe and Kate Holm from Boob to Food share insights on starting babies on solids, discussing signs of readiness, pros and cons of baby lead weaning vs spoon feeding, and misconceptions about breastfeeding duration. They also highlight the importance of family meal times and establishing regular mealtimes, while exploring different approaches to feeding.
When deciding whether to choose spoon feeding or baby-led weaning, it is important to consider individual preferences and what works best for you and your family.
The decision of how and when to wean from breastfeeding is a personal one that should be based on the needs and preferences of both the mother and the baby.
Deep dives
Factors to Consider when Choosing Spoon Feeding or Baby-Led Weaning
When deciding whether to choose spoon feeding or baby-led weaning, it is important to consider individual preferences and what works best for you and your family. Both methods have their pros and cons, and there is no strict right or wrong approach. The key is to ensure a relaxed and enjoyable mealtime experience. Spoon feeding allows for greater control over food intake and the ability to introduce a wider range of nutrient-dense purees. It can also be helpful for introducing challenging textures such as meat. On the other hand, baby-led weaning encourages self-feeding and allows babies to explore tastes, textures, and colors on their own. It promotes independence and can facilitate a positive relationship with food. However, there may be an increased risk of gagging and choking. Ultimately, the decision should prioritize the comfort and well-being of both the parent and the baby.
Breastfeeding and Weaning
The decision of how and when to wean from breastfeeding is a personal one that should be based on the needs and preferences of both the mother and the baby. The World Health Organization recommends exclusive breastfeeding or formula feeding until six months of age, with food gradually introduced as a complement to milk feeds. Breast milk or formula should remain a priority until 12 months of age, after which food can become the main source of nutrition. While the ideal is to continue breastfeeding until the age of two or beyond, individual circumstances may vary, and it is important to find a solution that works for you and your baby. If early weaning is necessary, it is important to replace breast milk with an appropriate alternative, such as donor milk or formula. After 12 months, there is no need to replace breast milk with cow's milk, as long as a balanced diet is provided.
Starting Solids and Nutritional Considerations
When starting solids, it is important to provide nutrient-dense foods that meet the baby's nutritional needs. Iron is a key nutrient, and foods such as liver, meats, leafy greens, and eggs can be excellent sources. The goal is to gradually increase the baby's exposure to different tastes, textures, and colors. Family meals and eating together are highly encouraged to promote healthy eating habits and allow babies to observe and learn from their caregivers. It is important to note that cow's milk is not necessary after 12 months of age, and offering it as a comfort drink should not replace the nutritional benefits of other foods. The focus should be on providing a balanced and varied diet.
Boob to Food Podcast Recommendations
The Boob to Food podcast covers a range of topics related to breastfeeding, starting solids, and baby nutrition. Some recommended episodes include: 'Weaning Stories' where Luca and Kate share their own weaning experiences, 'Starting Solids' which provides information on introducing first foods, and episodes on introducing allergens and transitioning to family meals. The podcast aims to provide evidence-based information and expert interviews to support parents in their feeding journey.
After popular demand by mums in the Kic community, today's KICBUMP episode is with Luka McCabe - the founder of the company Boob to Food, author of Milk to Meals, registered nurse and midwife, as well as mum of 3. Steph and Luka are also joined by Kate Holm - a naturopath, nutritionist, clinical director of Boob to Food and mum of 2 (with a third on the way)!
Boob to food is a hub where parents can get all the information they need around baby nutrition to give them the confidence they need when they’re wanting to start their baby on solids. In today's chat, Luka and Kate give a breadth of information for any parent curious to learn more about the transition from milk to food for their little one.
They cover the signs to look for to know your baby is ready to start solids, the pros and cons of baby led weaning vs spoon feeding, and the misconceptions around how long you breastfeed for.