You should avoid giving biscuits or any packaged foods to your baby before they are 2 years old.
Here's a breakdown of why and when to consider introducing solid foods, including biscuits, based on expert recommendations:
Key Considerations for Introducing Solids
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), solid foods should only be introduced to babies after they reach 6 months of age. Before this milestone, babies should primarily get their nutrition from breast milk or formula.
- Timing: Introducing solids too early can interfere with nutrient absorption from milk and may increase the risk of allergies.
- Nutritional Needs: Babies younger than 6 months lack the digestive maturity to process complex solids effectively.
- Safety: Early introduction can pose a risk of choking or digestive problems.
Why Avoid Biscuits Before 2 Years?
The primary reason for avoiding biscuits and other packaged foods for babies under two years is their potential negative impact on health:
- Sugar Content: Most commercial biscuits are high in added sugars, which can lead to unhealthy eating habits, tooth decay, and weight gain.
- Salt Content: Babies' kidneys are not fully developed to process high levels of salt, which can cause health problems.
- Preservatives: Many packaged biscuits contain preservatives that may be harmful to babies and toddlers.
- Nutrient Deficiencies: These processed foods offer limited nutritional value and may displace healthier, more nutritious foods.
When to Introduce More Variety (Including some types of biscuits)
While processed, packaged biscuits are not recommended before age 2, once your child is over 2 years old, you can start to consider some types of biscuits in moderation, as part of a balanced diet. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Choose Wisely: Look for biscuits with low sugar, salt, and preservative content.
- Homemade Alternatives: Consider making your own biscuits with natural ingredients. This allows you to control what goes into them and avoid additives.
- Moderation: Biscuits, even healthier ones, should be given in small amounts as an occasional treat, not as a daily food.
Here’s a summary in a table:
| Age | Recommendations |
|---|---|
| Under 6 months | Exclusive breastfeeding or formula feeding. No solids should be given. |
| 6-24 months | Begin solids at 6 months; Avoid biscuits and other processed, packaged foods due to sugar, salt and preservatives. |
| Over 2 years | Can start some biscuits in small amounts, in moderation as an occasional treat with emphasis on healthier alternatives. |
In conclusion, avoid biscuits before age 2 and focus on healthier, nutritious meals tailored to your baby's age.
