Mashed Food: Is it right or wrong to feed mashed food to babies? Learn how from Dr. Nihar Parekh

Baby Food Type: Young children's eating patterns vary with age. Many children continue to eat mashed food even after they grow up, but do you know whether this is right or wrong? Let's find out when a child should be given mashed food.

Mashed Food Baby Side Effects: After completion of 5-6 months, small children start eating and drinking other things apart from milk. Mashing food is necessary for small children in the initial months, especially when their nervous system and teeth are developing. But after a certain age, if the child is continuously given mashed food, it can prove to be harmful for their growth. Many parents feed mashed food to their small children even after they grow up, on this Dr. Nihar Parekh says that it is very important to make children habituated to chewing food after the age of one year. Let us know from the doctor why children should not be fed mashed food after a certain age.

Why is it important to chew food?

When children chew food, saliva and digestive juices are activated in their mouths. This process breaks down food into smaller pieces and makes it digestible. If food is always mashed, this natural digestive process doesn't fully occur. Consequently, nutrition isn't properly absorbed, which can lead to a child's weight loss, weakened immunity, and impaired overall development.

How to inculcate chewing habits in children

Playing with food and encouraging children to chew it is a great way to encourage them. Colorful food options, fun stories, jokes, and small portions help keep children interested. Gradually introducing hard foods like vegetable pieces or soft fruits strengthens their muscles and joints. Always give children chewable foods like dried fruits, nuts, and bread.

Should we give up mashing food altogether as we age?

Dr. Nihar explains that after one year of age, your child should gradually transition from mashing to solid foods. It's easier to start with small pieces and soft foods, but gradually transitioning to solid foods over time is beneficial for their teeth, gums, and digestion.

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