Wean wise, Gut thrive with Munchkin for National Weaning Week
Gut health has become a national obsession and ‘microbiome’ the latest wellness buzzword. It’s also high on the health agenda for babies, with this year’s National Weaning Week (13th – 17th May) theme “Wean Wise, Gut Thrive”.
This Weaning Week, lifestyle baby brand, Munchkin has teamed up with Paediatric Dietitian and Gut Health Specialist, Bahee Van de Boor. Bahee says good gut health for life starts early. “The weaning stage – when solids are first introduced – is a real turning point. The right foods during this window help build a diverse and balanced gut microbiome. And that matters, because a healthy gut supports far more than just digestion. It plays a crucial role in shaping the immune system, supporting sleep, and setting the stage for long-term health.”
Bahee’s top three tips for good gut health weaning:
1. Variety matters more than quantity
Explore bitter-tasting vegetables and grains with your baby before sweeter flavours like fruit. While fruit is an important source of fibre, vitamins, and antioxidants (all helpful for a healthy microbiome), it’s a great idea to begin with vegetables like broccoli, spinach, green beans, and iron-rich pulses such as lentils and legumes.
2. Don’t fear fibre
It’s a myth that babies shouldn’t have fibre! As with adults, fibre feeds the healthy bacteria in a baby’s developing microbiome. Without it, the gut can’t thrive. To help their tummy adjust, offer a mix of wholemeal and white bread or pasta. Start with small portions and gradually increase them as your baby becomes more confident with fibre-rich foods and textures.
3. Tread carefully with Probiotics
In the early months, healthy babies don’t usually need a probiotic supplement. Once your baby is well established on solids you can gently introduce probiotic-rich foods like yoghurt and kefir. Begin with small amounts – a spoonful stirred into porridge or mashed fruit is ideal. Aged cheeses, such as cheddar and gouda can also be used in cooking to introduce beneficial probiotics.
Nurturing little tummies is just part of the weaning experience. With thoughtfully created and safe weaning products Munchkin helps parents enjoy every messy, mealtime moment and embrace this first year milestone. Innovative products include the Stay Put Suction Bowls and Stay Put Suction Plates. Strong suction bases mean less ‘tipping up time’ and more fun feeding time for parents (as well as less cleaning up time!). Designed with safety in mind, the Munchkin White Hot Infant Spoons are the perfect feeding accessory. Parents don’t have to worry about food temperatures as the spoon tip turns white if the food is too hot for your baby. Risk of choking is also a top worry for parents. Munchkin’s Fresh Food Feeder helps minimise choking risk as fruits and veggies can be popped in the mesh bag, snapped shut and baby can chew and gnaw with only very small pieces of food getting through.
Munchkin knows that every weaning adventure is unique. As well as a safe, fun, bonding experience for parent and baby, it is most importantly the start of your baby’s good gut health journey nurturing healthy habits to last a lifetime.