What are the complications of giving solids too early?

Question

My partner was a forumla-fed baby who had solids from as young as 5 & a half weeks!!!

He has hayfever, but no food allergies. Is there any other possible complications that giving solids too early could have caused?

Answer 1

Basically it's just not the healthiest thing to do. Yes there are plenty of people who were started on soilds too young and they are perfectly fine, but that doesn't mean it's not unhealthy. I teach parents about feeding as part of my job and eveyone in my profession agrees it's best to wait until 6 months. The only thing a baby needs for the first 6 months is breastmilk and/or formula and anything else takes away from that. Also a baby's digestive system isn't ready before then.

Answer 2

A baby's digestive system is simply not ready for solids until around 6 months. there is some speculation (and some anecdotal evidence) that early solids could contribute to a risk of digestive problems like irritable bowel syndrome, although I do not know of any studies.

There's absolutely no NEED to feed a baby solids prior to six months, so isn't it better to wait and be safe rather than sorry?

Answer 3

I've never heard of it causing allergies. The major problem is that the child will not be getting enough milk (with propper nutrients) or that they cannot digest the food. It really depends on the baby. Larger children often need solids more quickly.

Answer 4

Google open gut. A baby's digestive system is simply not prepared for anything other than breastmilk. Anything else is harder to digest, and can cause gas, stomach cramps, indigestion, colic, fussiness, constipation/diarrhea and acid reflux. Even formula is harder on a baby's digestive system than breastmilk, but is better than anything else.

A baby younger than six months should have NOTHING but breastmilk and formula. There's simply no need for anything else.

There's no evidence that it causes long-term effects, but it's not good for the baby.

Answer 5

Starting solids too early usually doesn't cause any problems, BUT, there's no benefit to it either.
The hayfever is most likely unrelated.

Answer 6

Can cause allergies period, may cause diverticulitis and celiac disease ( possible link) constipation and gastroenteritis. You gotta suck it up and feed formula or BM until baby is at least 4 months , 6 months is better though.

Answer 7

no,i gave my baby rice cereal at 3in a half mths and he is fine just give him the cereal for 1 week once a day ethier in the morning or the night to see if it gives him problems good luck