‘Start Solids At 6 Months To Build Chewing Skills, Prevent Health Issues’: Pediatrician Dr Rakesh Bhargav

Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh): Introducing solids at six months helps babies learn to chew, swallow, and experience new textures, says noted paediatrician Dr Rakesh Bhargav.

In a conversation with Free Press Journal, he discussed key aspects of neonatal health, nutrition and common parenting mistakes.

Q. After breastfeeding, how should babies be given nutrition?

After six months, babies should be introduced to solid food to develop chewing habits and a taste for food. Prolonged reliance on milk is harmful for overall development. Even salty homemade snacks like matharis or mathiyas are good alternatives to teething nipples, as they help strengthen the jaw and introduce taste early.

Q. What are the disadvantages of bottle feeding?

Bottle feeding increases the risk of infections, especially when hygiene is poor. It can also lead to overfeeding and obesity. Sugary liquids like juice or formula in bottles may cause tooth decay and other dental problems due to constant exposure.

Q. Many parents grind fruits and vegetables in a mixer-grinder for babies. Is that safe?

It’s better to give babies homemade food with texture rather than pulpy, mixer-ground meals. Smooth food delays the development of chewing skills, which affects digestion and long-term health. Gradual exposure to taste and texture of vegetables is crucial for growth.

Q. Babies often cry in initial days. How should mothers respond?

Mothers should avoid feeding the baby every time it cries. There should be a gap of at least 1.5 hours between feeds. Continuous breastfeeding can lead to indigestion, vomiting and stomach pain.

Q. Some women avoid bathing their babies daily. How does this impact baby’s health?

Babies should be bathed daily. In winter, use lukewarm water. Even during fever, proper bathing is beneficial. Unfortunately, many mothers skip bathing for four to six days, which is not good for hygiene or health.

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