Food before 1 is not just for fun!
I keep seeing comments with the phrase “food before 1 is just for fun” and I want to point out that this is a myth. A baby would be way worse off if they didn’t have solids before they turn 1. If you refer to paediatricians and nutritionists they will not say that solids are just a bonus. Exposure to solids is so important for nutrition, iron, hand eye coordination, sensory development, allergies etc.
Yes breast milk or formula will be their primary source of nutrients and energy for a while still and their main drink, but it’s very normal for the amount they have to start to decrease. From 7-9 months, per the NHS, babies will have approx 600ml of formula and from 10-12 months around 400ml. This will of course vary.
It’s also perfectly fine for babies to take time adjusting to solids, but it’s essential to keep trying and offering variety. Just don’t want anyone to think that they shouldn’t because “it’s just for fun”.
Links:
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/baby/weaning-and-feeding/babys-first-solid-foods/
https://www.weaning.ie/food-before-1/
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This 100% furthermore anyone in SALT will say that oral skills are developed and learned early on by 12 months and it links with feedings and solids. People shouldn’t place so much pressure on themselves and babies, however food isn’t just for fun.
I've thought recently how odd this phrase is despite using it myself. I think the pressure to have your baby 'eating' by 7 or 8 months is there so this is supposed to encourage you to try but not stress that they're not having main meals.
Like you said milk is the main source of nutrition but solids need to be increased in stages. This phrase doesn't suggest that and it comes from the NHS!!
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