Is baby-led weaning (BLW) evidence-based? Yes, it is, and for many, it is an excellent method.

However, responsive feeding, regardless of the food texture, is also evidence-based.

Studies comparing BLW and parent-led weaning (PLW) have shown that both methods can result in picky eaters, but slightly fewer picky eaters came from BLW. A 2019 study examined the factors that go into weaning and found that responsive feeding is more important than specific food textures or types offered.

Responsive feeding involves being attentive to your child’s hunger and fullness cues and letting them decide when to stop eating without your pressure or praise. Other essential practices include exposing your child to various textures and flavors and advancing them to table foods as quickly as possible.

All in all, there are evidence-based practices for feeding your baby, and you can choose the best method.

Posted by FIA BATUA -MAMBUAY, RND on MARCH 10, 2023