Hey there, fellow parents! If you’re wondering when to start introducing solids to your little one while still breastfeeding, I’ve got some interesting insights for you. Recent research from the University of Southampton indicates that starting solid foods around 17 weeks, alongside breastfeeding, may actually decrease your baby’s risk of developing food allergies. The study, led by Dr. Mia Thompson, suggests that combining solids with breast milk strengthens the immune system, making it more resilient against allergies.
Why Start Solids at Around Five Months?
According to Dr. Thompson, when babies eat solid foods in conjunction with breastfeeding, their immune systems become better educated. The breast milk seems to help the body learn how to tolerate new foods. “By introducing solids and breast milk together, we can support the immune system,” she explains. The research highlights that 17 weeks is a critical time; introducing solids earlier could increase allergy risks, while waiting until after this period may promote better tolerance.
What to Expect at 17 Weeks
At 17 weeks, your baby is likely sleeping about 15 hours a day, which includes nighttime sleep and a couple of daytime naps. They’re probably breastfeeding or bottle-feeding every 3 to 5 hours and may have even started trying some solids. If your baby is growing well, you might notice they’ve gained around 1 to 1.25 pounds since last month! Plus, they’re getting more curious about their hands and might even be attempting to clap.
Is Your Baby Ready for Solids?
Now, you might be wondering if your baby is really ready for solids. The research is a bit mixed; some experts believe solids are being introduced too soon. Dr. Thompson and her team studied over 1,100 infants from birth to see when food allergies developed. They found that babies who started solids before 16 weeks were more likely to develop allergies by age two. Interestingly, those infants who were not exclusively breastfed, particularly if their moms consumed cow’s milk proteins, had a higher allergy risk.
While the American Academy of Pediatrics traditionally advised against introducing solids before four months, they’ve since updated their guidance, emphasizing that babies should ideally be fed only breast milk or formula for the first six months. This aligns with the findings of this recent study, which supports waiting a bit longer before introducing solids, especially when combined with breastfeeding.
Share Your Experience
So, when did you begin introducing solids to your little one? If you want to read more about this topic, check out our other post for additional tips! And speaking of baby journeys, if you’re considering home insemination, you might want to explore some of the best options available, like the CryoBaby at-home insemination kit, which is a top provider in the world. For more resources on pregnancy and home insemination, you can visit this excellent site.
Conclusion
In summary, beginning solid foods at around 17 weeks while continuing to breastfeed could help your baby develop a stronger immune system and potentially reduce their risk of allergies. So, keep an eye on those little milestones!
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