How long should breastfeeding continue before weaning?
Nov 08, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhou Xiaofeng
Introduction
For infants under six months of age, breast milk can basically meet all their nutritional needs. However, after six months, the infant's growth and development accelerate, and their nutritional requirements become increasingly diverse. Exclusive breast milk alone can no longer provide sufficient nutrients. At this time, the infant's digestive system gradually matures, and they begin to develop the ability to digest and absorb foods other than breast milk.
Generally, it is better to wean a baby from breastfeeding between 6 to 12 months of age, although the exact timing should be determined according to individual circumstances.
For infants under six months old, breast milk generally meets all their nutritional needs. However, after six months, the infant's growth and development accelerate, and their nutritional needs become increasingly diverse. Exclusive breastfeeding can no longer supply sufficient nutrients. At this stage, the infant's digestive system gradually matures and they begin to develop the ability to digest and absorb foods other than breast milk. It is advisable to start introducing complementary foods and consider weaning, which will help the baby better adapt to different tastes and textures of food, obtain comprehensive and balanced nutrition from a diversified diet, and promote the development of various organs and systems.
If the mother's physical condition is poor, it may affect the quality of breast milk, or if the mother cannot continue breastfeeding due to work-related reasons, weaning can also be considered after six months, depending on the specific situation.
During the weaning process, it is recommended to proceed gradually by slowly reducing the number of breastfeeding sessions, while paying attention to the baby's emotional and physical responses, ensuring a smooth transition through the weaning phase.
