When to Stop Breastfeeding – When Baby Can Start on Solids
“Should breastfeeding stop as soon as my baby can sit up?”
“Should he be weaned as soon as he shows some teeth?”
“He wakes up in the middle of the night, demanding more milk. Sometimes, he wants more even when my nipples are already sore and drawing blood. Is this still normal?
“He sees the food on my plate and tries to have a go at it. When I refuse, he cries non-stop until I am forced to give him a milk feed. Does this mean he is ready for solids?”
You may have been encountering these and so much more questions on when a baby should be weaned. In reality though, there are no set rules as to when a baby can be weaned. There are only suggestions and recommendations. And since no baby is born alike (not even twins), then there are times that a tip may work on one child and have disastrous results on another.
Your baby can actually show you that he is ready for solid foods. To answer the questions mentioned (in consecutive order):
Yes, you can possibly stop breastfeeding if he can sit up, and if he can hold his head up high;
Not should, but he can be weaned when teeth start to emerge;
Waking up in the middle of the night to demand more milk may be normal, depending on the age. Or, if he never did it before, but has done it consecutively for a couple of days and still has no signs of stopping, despite having been given a feed, then it may be time to consult a doctor as there might be other matters of concern;
His tummy must be feeling hunger pangs, so seeing someone else enjoy food as stimulating as what you have may have been his means of trying mimicry to show you what he can already do;
BUT … it is highly recommended that solids be given when your child is at least 6 months of age. If you start earlier than that, his digestive system (specifically his intestinal tract) may not yet be fully developed – giving solids at this time may be too much for your baby. At 6 months, you have minimized the risk of him developing allergies to food, especially if you have a family history of allergies and respiratory diseases.
The delay will also give your baby enough time to develop his swallowing skills without the risk of him choking once solid food is introduced. If you feel that you have to wean earlier than that, then it is best to discuss it with your doctor or health care provider first before attempting the early introduction of solid foods. In doing so, make sure that you avoid any food containing eggs, dairy products, cheese, gluten, fish and shellfish as these are allergens – meaning these are possible triggers for mild or fatal allergic reactions.
On the 6th month, start him on iron-fortified rice cereal. Mix it with breast or formula milk and/or water to make it runny. Remember, the first feed is a test if your baby is ready for solids. Do not force it on him should he refuse the offer. If he doesn’t put out his tongue and he swallows it, then you are now allowed to breathe – welcome to the wonderful new world of weaning your baby to solid food!
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