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Published on: April 19, 2024
[What is currently known about the baby-led weaning method-BLW?]
Valeria Fuentes Alfaro1, Giannella Leonelli Neira1, Gerardo Weisstaub2
1Departamento de Clínicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Católica del Norte, Coquimbo, Chile.
Abstract:
The most used method for starting complementary feeding is the parents-led weaning with foods of puree consistency; however, in recent years, the Baby-Led Weaning (BLW) has been positioning itself as a new method of choice, in which the baby guides the feeding process. The BLW presents benefits recognized mainly by mothers who implement the method, among which are the integration of the baby into family meals, greater autonomy, and less food selectivity. On the other hand, health professionals, despite recognizing its advantages, tend to be a little more reluctant to recommend the method, expressing concern about a possible deficit in energy and nutrients intake, risk of choking, and delayed growth. However, the results between studies are mixed, and the evidence supporting both benefits and risks needs to be analyzed in more studies. The objective of this update is to know in depth the BLW as a method of introducing complementary feeding, as well as the benefits and risks defined in the studies analyzed.
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