Breastfeeding to solid foods: what to watch out for?

Is your baby around 6 months and are you thinking about first bites? That transition from breastfeeding to solid foods is an exciting time! Of course, you want the best for your little one and make sure they get all the nutrients they need. In this blog you will read about what to look out for during this important period.

Why is this transition period so important?

Until now, your baby has gotten everything through breast milk or formula. Breast milk naturally contains all the nutrients a baby needs, including DHA. This omega-3 fatty acid is important for your baby's development. DHA contributes to normal visual development in infants up to 12 months of age.*

Around 6 months, however, your baby's iron stores are depleted and it needs more energy than milk alone can provide. So it's time for those first spoonfuls!

When is your baby ready for solid foods?

Do you doubt that your baby is ready yet? This is very recognizable! Each baby develops at its own pace, but there are a few clear signs you can watch for:

Physical signs 

Your baby can sit up straight with some support from you. You can also see that it is showing interest in what you are eating - maybe it is reaching for your plate! Another good sign is that your baby can bring food to its mouth and the tongue thrust reflex (where solid food is automatically pushed away) has disappeared.

The timing is right 

Most babies are ready for first bites around 6 months. Some babies are ready a little earlier (around 17 weeks), others a little later (up to 26 weeks). Above all, pay attention to your own baby's signals rather than just looking at the calendar.

What if your baby doesn't seem ready yet? 

Is your baby already around 6 months but you don't notice the physical signs yet? Or is the timing right, but your baby doesn't seem interested in eating yet? Then wait another week and try again. Some babies just need a little more time to develop. No rush: your baby will show you when the time comes.

Which nutrients deserve extra attention?

Now that your baby is transitioning to solid foods, there are some nutrients that are extra important. This is because not all nutrients are in the same amounts in breast milk, and some are needed more after 6 months. These are the most important ones to keep an eye on:

Iron: the No. 1 priority

Iron is really at the top of the list. Your baby is born with an iron supply that lasts about 6 months. After that, it must come in through food. Iron contributes to normal cognitive development in children* and is good for concentration*.

Therefore, give iron-rich first snacks such as finely ground meat, fish or porridge enriched with iron. Green vegetables such as spinach and broccoli also contain iron. Tip: Combine iron-rich foods with vitamin C (think some orange juice or peppers). This helps your baby's body absorb iron better.

Zinc and vitamin D

Your baby also needs zinc. Zinc plays a role in the cell division process* and contributes to the normal functioning of the immune system.* You can find it in meat, fish and whole grain products. For babies, meat and fish are especially good sources.

Vitamin D is usually given to babies via drops, as there are few foods that naturally contain vitamin D. Vitamin D is needed for normal growth and development of children's bones* and contributes to the normal functioning of the immune system in children.* Therefore, continue to give vitamin D to your child even when you start solid foods.

DHA for the eyes and brain

DHA remains important after 6 months of age. This omega-3 fatty acid contributes to normal visual development in infants until 12 months of age.* Your baby needs about 100 mg of DHA per day for this effect.

Are you still (partially) breastfeeding? Then your baby will still get DHA through your milk, provided you get enough of it. As a mother, you need an additional 200 mg of DHA per day while breastfeeding.* Fish such as salmon or cod are good sources of DHA for your baby's first bites. 

Worried about whether your child is getting enough DHA? Then you can also choose omega-3 from fish oil, algae oil or gummies from Arctic Blue. These are specially designed for children 1 year and older and also contain vitamin D.

Practical tips for transitioning to solid foods

Now that you know what nutrients are important, it's time for practice! Those first spoonfuls can be exciting - for you and for your baby. But with these tips, it will be a lot easier:

• Start with one new flavor at a time and wait a few days before introducing something new. This way you can see if your baby tolerates it well and gets used to the new flavors. Does your baby get a rash or tummy ache? Then you'll know immediately what's causing it.
• Give your baby different flavors, colors and textures. This way it will learn to eat a variety of foods and get many different nutrients. Think orange vegetables (carrot, sweet potato), green vegetables (broccoli, spinach) and different fruits. 
• Put some more fish on the menu. Start with mild fish like salmon or cod. Just make sure all the bones are out! Once or twice a week is enough. Or use omega-3 for kids from Arctic Blue as an alternative.
• Continue breastfeeding. The World Health Organization recommends continuing breastfeeding until age 2, in addition to solid foods. Through your breast milk, your baby will still receive valuable nutrients, including DHA. 
• Some days your baby eats a lot, other days little. This is perfectly normal! Never force and make it a pleasant time. Babies sense when you are stressed, and that doesn't help with eating.

Finally, trust your gut! 

That transition to solid foods need not be stressful. Each baby develops at his own pace. The important thing is that your baby eats a variety of foods and gets all the important nutrients. And remember: those first messy meals may be chaotic, but they are also very special. Enjoy them!

*Approved EFSA health claims. For the visual development of infants, a daily intake of 100 mg DHA is recommended. For pregnant and breastfeeding women, an additional daily intake of 200 mg DHA is recommended.