Baby Weaning Guide: Expert tips from Lucy Upton

With over 14 years of experience in paediatric nutritional health, Lucy shares her expert advice to help parents navigate the exciting (and sometimes messy) journey of introducing solid foods to their babies.

About Lucy Upton

Lucy Upton is a leading UK Paediatric Dietitian and Nutritionist with extensive NHS and private practice experience. Her expertise includes weaning, food allergies, feeding challenges, and children’s growth. Lucy’s evidence-based, pragmatic advice empowers parents to support their children’s nutrition with confidence.

For more information on the Weaning Guide, visit Milk & More or contact us for exclusive insights and quotes from Lucy Upton.

The guide offers 10 top tips designed to make weaning a positive experience for both parents and babies, supporting everything from palate development to motor skills. Here’s an exclusive look at Lucy Upton’s expert weaning tips:

1. Know When to Start

The best time to start weaning is around six months, when babies show signs of readiness—such as sitting up unaided or showing interest in food. Remember, each baby develops at their own pace, so trust their unique timeline.

2. Off to a Great Start

Begin with simple, single-ingredient foods like vegetables. Once your baby is comfortable, gradually introduce fruits, iron-rich foods, starchy carbohydrates, dairy, and healthy fats to ensure a well-rounded diet.

3. Be Consistent

Consistency is key. Offer solids regularly but don’t worry if your baby doesn’t eat much at first. New flavours and textures may take several attempts before acceptance, so keep offering a variety of foods.

4. Offer Plenty of Variety

Babies are naturally curious about new tastes and textures. Introducing a diverse range of foods early helps develop a broad palate, reducing food aversions later and supporting gut health.

5. Let Them Learn

Whether you’re using traditional weaning or baby-led weaning, give your baby the freedom to explore food. Letting them touch, play, and self-feed aids in developing fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination—embrace the mess!

6. Introduce Key Food Groups

As you progress, create balanced meals by combining various food groups. Aim for a mix of proteins, healthy fats, and carbohydrates to build nutritious “mini-meals.”

7. Milk & More

Cow’s milk can be used in foods from the beginning of weaning but not as a primary drink until after 12 months. Opt for full-fat milk to meet your baby’s energy needs.

8. Introduce Allergens Early

Introduce common allergens like peanuts, eggs, and milk before your baby turns one. Early exposure may help prevent allergies. If your child has existing allergies or eczema, consult a healthcare professional for tailored advice.

9. Trust Your Baby’s Appetite

Babies are intuitive eaters. Follow their hunger and fullness cues by offering more when they show interest and stopping when they seem satisfied. Progress may be gradual, so patience is essential.

10. Make Mealtimes Social

Eating together as a family helps babies learn by watching others. Share meals whenever possible to build your baby’s confidence and enjoyment at mealtimes.

Bonus Tip: Tummy Troubles

It’s common for babies to experience digestive issues like constipation during weaning. Although cow’s milk often gets blamed, it’s not always the cause. If concerned, consult a doctor before making dietary changes.

About Milk & More

With over 100 years of history, Milk & More continues to deliver fresh milk and groceries to doorsteps across Britain. Offering everything from organic fruit and veg to store-cupboard essentials, Milk & More brings convenience with a touch of tradition.