Yogurt is often one of the first solid foods mothers introduce to their babies when they begin complementary feeding—while continuing to breastfeed. Yogurt (also known as laban or roob) is widely considered a rich, unmatched source of nutrition, which is why many mothers are eager to incorporate it into their baby's diet. However, this enthusiasm may lead to several common mistakes that reduce yogurt’s nutritional benefits for the infant.
In an exclusive interview with Nadormagazine, nutritionist Dr. Mai Younes highlighted the most frequent errors mothers make when offering yogurt to babies, including offering low-fat varieties or yogurt with artificial fruit flavors. Here are the key insights:
1. Introducing Yogurt Before Six Months of Age
Avoid offering yogurt of any kind—whether full-fat, low-fat, or flavored—before your baby reaches six months of age. The infant’s digestive system is not yet developed enough to process anything other than breast milk or formula at this stage.
Offering yogurt too early can result in:
-
Digestive discomfort
-
Gas, bloating, and colic
-
Continuous crying due to abdominal pain
Solid food introduction should only begin after four months under medical supervision, and preferably after six months, according to pediatric feeding guidelines.
2. Avoiding Yogurt During Gastroenteritis
A common misconception among mothers is to withhold yogurt when a child has diarrhea or stomach flu. On the contrary, full-fat, preferably homemade yogurt can be very beneficial during episodes of diarrhea—as long as it is not accompanied by vomiting or signs of severe dehydration requiring medical treatment.
Yogurt contains probiotics, particularly Lactobacillus, a beneficial type of bacteria that naturally exists in the intestines and urinary tract. Probiotics help:
-
Improve gut health
-
Reduce the severity and duration of diarrhea
-
Prevent digestive and urinary infections
So, unless advised otherwise by a doctor, it is safe and beneficial to give yogurt to your baby after six months of age—even during mild diarrhea.
3. Giving Yogurt with Artificial Fruit Flavors
Do not give your baby yogurt with artificial fruit flavors such as strawberry or banana, which are commonly found on supermarket shelves. These products typically:
-
Contain artificial flavorings and color additives
-
Include preservatives unsuitable for infants
-
Are high in added sugars, which are prohibited for babies under one year—including honey
Instead, enhance plain yogurt with fresh fruit pieces like banana, pear, or apple to increase nutritional value safely. Fresh fruits contain essential vitamins and minerals that support immunity and overall development.
4. Replacing Breast Milk with Yogurt
It is incorrect to consider yogurt as a substitute for breast milk or infant formula. Some mothers mistakenly reduce the number of breastfeeds once they introduce yogurt, believing it can fulfill the baby’s dairy needs.
Yogurt should only be offered as a single meal, once daily, and should not replace any breast or bottle feeding sessions. Breastfeeding should continue throughout the first year to ensure the baby receives its full benefits, including immune and emotional support.
5. Offering Low-Fat or Fat-Free Yogurt
Avoid giving your baby low-fat or fat-free yogurt. Some mothers worry that full-fat yogurt might be too heavy for their infant's stomach, but this is a misconception. An infant’s digestive system can handle full-fat yogurt easily.
Full-fat yogurt contains healthy fats, which are essential for:
-
Brain development
-
Muscle growth
-
Cognitive and physical development
These fats do not contribute to unhealthy weight gain in infants like processed fats do. Instead, they are crucial for healthy growth during this vital developmental stage.
Therefore, always opt for full-fat plain yogurt for your baby after six months. You can also enhance it with vegetables or fruits to provide complete, well-balanced meals.
Post a Comment