By what age is a baby's digestive system typically ready for baby-led weaning (BLW)?

The correct answer is six months. By this age, most babies have generally developed the necessary physiological readiness for baby-led weaning (BLW). At around six months, babies typically have a stronger neck and back muscles, allowing them to sit independently and control their head movements, which are crucial for safely managing solid foods. Additionally, their digestive systems tend to be more mature, making it easier for them to process solid foods without compromising their health.

Around six months, babies also begin to lose the tongue-thrust reflex, which is the reflex that causes them to push food out of their mouths rather than accepting it. This developmental milestone is significant as it allows them to explore and accept solid foods more readily. It is considered a pivotal moment in their transition from a milk-based diet to one that includes a variety of solid foods. Introducing foods before this age, such as at four months, may not provide the same readiness for safely handling solid food textures. Conversely, waiting until eight or ten months may delay the opportunity for babies to explore food independently, which is a fundamental aspect of BLW.