Weaning problems solved
Weaning problems solved
Challenging times
Common weaning concerns and solutions
Weaning your baby is an exciting time, but it’s not without its challenges. Switching from breast milk or infant formula to solids is a big change. So whether your baby is gagging on lumpy foods or refusing to eat anything new, find out how to solve the most common weaning issues.
Why does my baby keep spitting out food?
When your baby is young, they will have a reflex to thrust their tongue out every time the back of their throat is stimulated. This is known as the ‘tongue-thrust reflex’ and it will diminish as your baby gets older. Try not to worry if your baby spits back food – this is a common weaning problem. It may not be because they dislike
Why does my baby refuse certain foods?
If your baby pulls a face and refuses a certain food on a first attempt, it's more than likely they are surprised. This is a new experience, after all. Chances are your baby will forget and may respond differently next time they taste the same food. Perseverance is the key to this particular weaning issue. It can take eight to ten attempts for your baby to accept certain foods or tastes, so give them plenty of chances to try again.
If everything else fails, go back to the basics for a few days – vegetables that have a mild
Why doesn’t my baby like finger foods?
Experts advise introducing finger foods from 6 months
Start with soft finger foods, such as slices of banana or avocado, and gradually introduce firmer textures as your baby seems ready. Pieces should be about the same size as your little finger so that your baby can grasp them well.
Initially, your baby will only eat a small amount of these foods, as they will still be getting most of their nutrition from breast milk or infant formula. This isn’t a problem – just continue offering finger foods as part of the weaning process, and sit together as a family at mealtimes to encourage them. Your baby learns through copying, so if they see you eating finger food, they are likely to follow suit.
Should I worry if my baby gags on solids?
Gagging is a normal reflex that prevents your baby from choking, so if it happens, try not to panic. Check to see you are not putting too much food on their spoon, or if they are putting the spoon too far into their mouth.
Sometimes babies struggle with the transition from smooth purées to lumpier textures. It may take some time for your baby to get used to lumpier foods, so introduce them slowly to help avoid this weaning issue. Move from a smooth purée to mashed foods with small lumps and then on to larger lumps. Experimenting with new and varied textures early on in your baby’s development is less likely to lead to food refusal as weaning progresses.
If your baby does gag, try not to overreact or lift them out of their highchair. Use lots of reassuring words and comforting body language. Mums often mistake gagging for choking, when in fact the likelihood of choking is very small. If you are concerned, talk to your doctor or healthcare professional, who will tell you what signs to look out for and when to administer first aid.
Why isn’t my baby eating anything?
In the first few weeks of weaning all you can expect is for your baby to take a small amount of food from the tip of a spoon. At this stage, it's more about getting your baby used to the feel of food in their mouth.
As they grow, your baby’s food intake should increase, but bear in mind a baby’s stomach is much smaller than an adult’s. At 3 months it is approximately 10 times smaller than an adult’s and by 1 year, around 4 times smaller. Their portions should reflect this difference.
Remember, your baby will still be getting most of their nutrients from breast milk or infant formula. As long as they continue growing and putting on weight, there’s no need to worry.
Offer a variety of foods, of different tastes and textures, and avoid showing frustration if your baby refuses foods or only eats small amounts. They will gradually increase their food intake over time. If you are feeling concerned speak to your health visitor for reassurance and advice.
Why is my baby refusing to be spoon-fed?
Between 8 and 10 months, your baby may begin to refuse being fed by a spoon. This is around the age where babies become more aware of themselves. Asserting their independence by refusing a spoon is, in fact, another milestone.
To make mealtimes more relaxed, try letting your baby hold another spoon while you feed them. You could also try scooping food onto their spoon and encouraging them to feed themselves. If that doesn’t work, try giving your baby soft finger food such as steamed vegetables, cooked meats or cheese.
Babies may also refuse to be spoon-fed if they are feeling unwell, are teething or tired. If you have any concerns talk to your doctor or health visitor.
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Last reviewed: 21st August 2014
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Important notice
Breastfeeding is best for babies and provides many benefits. It is important that, in preparation for and during breastfeeding, you eat a varied, balanced diet. Combined breast and bottle feeding in the first weeks of life may reduce the supply of your own breastmilk, and reversing the decision not to breastfeed is difficult. The social and financial implications of using an infant formula should be considered. Improper use of an infant formula or inappropriate foods or feeding methods may present a health hazard. If you use an infant formula, you should follow manufacturer’s instructions for use carefully – failure to follow the instructions may make your baby ill. Always consult your doctor, midwife or health visitor for advice about feeding your baby.
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