New research has shown that it might be better to start weaning babies and introducing solids at around 4 months.
In 2003, The Department of Health issued advice, based on a World Health Organisation report, that weaning shouldn't start until 6 months. The WHO said that babies just given breast milk for six months had fewer infections and experienced no growth problems. Now, however, experts, led by Dr Mary Fewtrell, a paediatrician from University College London's Institute of Child Health, say breast-feeding exclusively for six months may possibly make it harder for a baby to adapt to new tastes.
A spokesman said: "Bitter tastes, in particular, may be important in the later acceptance of green leafy vegetables." Rejection of veg could damage health when the child is older.
The team said that 33 different studies suggested solids could safely be introduced into a baby's diet at around four to six months. They say that that by waiting till 6 months, parents could increase the danger of a baby developing anaemia amongst other things.Breastfeeding Health BenefitsBut Janet Fyle, of the Royal College of Midwives, said the UK should definitely NOT reconsider its current advice. She said: "It would be a retrograde step ..... It plays into the hands of the baby food industry which has failed to support the UK's six-month exclusive breast-feeding policy. Breast milk confers many health benefits on the baby that last a lifetime."
And a Department of Health spokeswoman said: "Breast milk provides all the nutrients a baby needs up to six months of age and we recommend exclusive breastfeeding for this time. Mothers who wish to introduce solids before six months should always talk to health professionals first."
Our Breastfeeding Section
January 14 2011 | 
Top Tips For Weaning Your Baby
