Feeding Practices in the Introduction of Complementary Feeding and Implications for Future Healthy Eating

Professor Elvira Verduci talks about complementary feeding as a critical window for shaping future health, emphasizing its role in bridging nutrient gaps beyond six months. She explains the importance of introducing solids between 17 and 26 weeks, noting that earlier introduction may have health risks, while delays may cause deficiencies. She further explains how responsive feeding and parenting styles help build healthy eating habits, while starting before four months may raise obesity risk. Approaches should be tailored to each child’s needs, culture, and family practices to encourage lifelong healthy eating.