Baby’s First Solid Food: Later is Not Necessarily Better
More and more mothers are putting off the introduction of first solid food to infants out of fear of food allergies and celiac disease. Two recent reports indicate that this delay is actually unwarranted and can lead to health problems. In a recent review, Guandalini reports that not only early but also “late (7 months or after) first explosure to gluten may favor the onset of celiac disease in predisposed individuals” [1]. Too early and too late gluten introduction can also result “in a significantly higher risk of the appearance of islet cell immunity,” a condition that can lead to type-1 diabetes.
In another study, German researchers did not find any association between the time of solid food introduction, the type of food, and the incidence of eczema in a cohort of 4753 infants. The results of the study indicate that „neither a delayed introduction of solids beyond the fourth month nor a delayed introduction of the most potentially allergenic solids beyond the sixth month of life“ can prevent eczema in infants [2].
Based on recent evidence, introduction of solid foods to babies should occur between 4 and 6 months and only as complementary food to breast milk. Breasfeeding during the introduction of gluten can delay the onset of celiac disease [1].
Sources:
[1] Issues in Complementary Feeding (2007). Nestle Nutr Workshop Ser Pediatr Program 60: 139-155.
[2] Journal of Pediatrics 151:352-358 (October 2007)
2 Comments
- Baby Food Industry replied:
Food for Your Vegetarian Baby
The earliest food for any baby, including a vegetarian baby, is breast milk. It promotes your baby’s immune system, reduces the risk of allergies and offers protection against infection.
February 23rd, 2008 at 10:34 pm. Permalink.
- Babys And Allergies To Baby Foods replied:
Babys And Allergies To Baby Foods
I don’t mean to be too in your face, but I’m not sure I agree with this. Anyhow, thanks for sharing and I think I’ll come to this blog more often.
March 18th, 2008 at 2:18 pm. Permalink.