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Ask the Expert: Take a balanced approach to weaning

Although it will likely upset your inner clean fiend, babies need to handle food when weaning
Although it will likely upset your inner clean fiend, babies need to handle food when weaning Although it will likely upset your inner clean fiend, babies need to handle food when weaning

Q: "What's the best way to wean my baby?"

A: Nutritionist and weaning expert Dr Rana Conway says: "Rather than opting for just one method, the current trend is to take a more balanced approach, and a recent survey by Vital Baby found that 64 per cent of parents choose to combine elements of both spoon-feeding and baby-led weaning methods to create a plan that suits their family life.

"So, offer your baby a wide range of foods. Babies naturally like sweet foods to start with, but offer slightly bitter foods too such as spinach, broccoli and green beans. Don't be surprised if these are rejected at first as your little one gets used to different flavours and textures. Every time you try, the chances of success increase.

"Let your baby set the pace. Responsive feeding is key, so if your baby shows signs that he's had enough, don't keep trying for one more spoonful. Teething and colds can put a baby off their food and pressure to eat will just cause food battles.

"Don't give too much milk – this is one of the main reasons for babies not taking to solids. Babies under 12 months need three to four breast feeds or 500-600ml of formula a day and giving more than this can make them too full for meals.

"Give your baby plenty of opportunities to handle food. Whether you're starting with spoon-feeding or baby-led weaning, give some finger foods every day. Steamed vegetables such as carrot sticks or pieces of broccoli and soft fruit like bananas and pears are ideal.

"Make meal times enjoyable by sitting and eating together whenever possible. If you relax and take your time, it will help your baby develop a healthy relationship with food."