Introduction of solids and formula to breastfed infants: a longitudinal prospective study in Uppsala, Sweden

The introduction of solids and formula was studied among 506 breastfed infa nts in Uppsala, Sweden, based on daily recordings during the first year. Th e mothers had previously breastfed at least I infant for at least 4 mo. Thi rty-four per cent of the infants were introduced to solids before the age o f 4 mo (4-6 mo is recommended in Sweden). Accustoming the infants to solids was a lengthy process. Life-table analyses showed a median duration of 28 d from the first introduction of solids to consumption of > 10 ml daily, an d 46 d before the infants ate greater than or equal to 100 ml of solids in 1 d for the first time. These durations were longer the younger the infant was at the introduction of solids. Thirty-two per cent of infants given for mula consumed greater than or equal to 100 ml the first time it was given, and 49% did so within 1 wk, regardless of infant age. Conclusion: Parents and healthcare personnel need to be aware that accustom ing breastfed infants to solid food is a lengthy process, and that there is a strong age effect on this duration. It is also important to consider wha t consequences the (usually) more abrupt introduction of formula might have on breastfeeding.