By Sarah Funnell14 January 2011 10:25Breast is best, that is what mothers are told. But new research suggests this may not be entirely true.
Mothers are being warned that breastfeeding exclusively for six months may not be best for their babies and could put them at risk of allergies, food aversion and even obesity.
New research, which contradicts nearly a decade of official advice, says babies can be safely given solid foods at least eight weeks earlier in life.
The latest research into breast feeding has come from British researchers who have questioned guidelines issued in 2001 by the World Health Organisation (WHO) – and supported by the Department of Health in 2003 – which told women to breastfeed for the first six months before giving solid foods to babies.
Based on WHO ‘global recommendations’, the aim was to help children worldwide avoid allergies and gastroenteritis.
But experts led by a paediatrician from University College London’s Institute of Child Health now claim the policy may actually have increased the risk of babies suffering allergies and iron deficiency. In addition, it could deter children from eating foods with bitter tastes that are good for them, fuelling the rise in obesity.
Commenting on the new study, Susie Willis, mum of three and founder of leading premium organic baby food Plum says: “These findings are well overdue – we have always believed that weaning is not about a text book answer.
"It should be about instinct and common sense, and as long as your baby is no younger than 17 weeks, it is appropriate to try and introduce them to new tastes and food sensations alongside their breast and bottle feeding.
The first two years are the most important in terms of setting up good eating habits and building an appetite for life.”
The new study in the British Medical Journal has sparked controversy, with the Royal College of Midwives claiming it can only benefit the baby food industry.
What do you think? Do you think the new research should be adhered to? Or do you think your baby gets all the nutrients he/she needs in the first six months from breast milk? Tell us your views by leaving a comment in the box below…
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