Kapan Bayi Mulai Mpasi?

What is MPASI?

MPASI stands for Makanan Pendamping ASI, which means complementary feeding for breastfed babies. This is the process of introducing solid foods to a baby’s diet while continuing to breastfeed. MPASI should only be started when a baby is ready and has reached the appropriate age and development stage.

When Should You Start MPASI?

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months of a baby’s life. After 6 months, babies should be introduced to solid foods while continuing to breastfeed until they are at least 2 years old. However, it is important to note that every baby is different and may develop at their own pace. Some babies may be ready for solid foods before 6 months, while others may not be ready until after 6 months. Therefore, it is important to look for the signs of readiness before starting MPASI.

What are the Signs of Readiness?

Here are some signs that your baby may be ready for MPASI: Q: Is your baby able to sit up with support?
A: Your baby should be able to sit up with support before starting MPASI. Q: Has your baby doubled their birth weight?
A: Your baby should have doubled their birth weight before starting MPASI. Q: Does your baby show interest in food?
A: Your baby should show interest in food and may try to grab food from your plate. Q: Can your baby hold their head up?
A: Your baby should be able to hold their head up and not have a tongue-thrust reflex. If your baby shows these signs of readiness, you can start introducing solid foods.

What Foods Should You Start With?

When starting MPASI, it is important to start with soft and easy-to-digest foods. Here are some foods you can start with:

• Soft fruits, such as bananas, avocados, and cooked apples or pears
• Vegetables, such as sweet potatoes, carrots, and squash
• Iron-fortified cereals, such as rice cereal or oatmeal
• Protein-rich foods, such as pureed meats, tofu, and well-cooked beans

It is important to introduce only one new food at a time and wait a few days before introducing another new food. This will help you to identify any potential food allergies or sensitivities.

What Foods Should You Avoid?

When starting MPASI, there are some foods that should be avoided to reduce the risk of choking and food allergies. Here are some foods to avoid:

• Honey: Honey can contain spores of bacteria that can cause botulism in babies
• Salt and sugar: Babies do not need added salt or sugar in their diet
• Cow’s milk: Cow’s milk is not recommended for babies under 1 year old
• Raw or undercooked eggs, meat, and fish: These foods can contain harmful bacteria

Advantages and Disadvantages of Starting MPASI

Advantages:

• Provides additional nutrients that breast milk may not provide
• Helps babies learn how to chew, swallow, and develop their jaw muscles
• Allows for a wider variety of foods in a baby’s diet

Disadvantages:

• Increased risk of choking if the baby is not ready for solid foods
• Potential for food allergies or sensitivities
• Can lead to overfeeding and obesity if not done in moderation

Conclusion

Starting MPASI is an important milestone for babies and should only be done when they are ready. Look for the signs of readiness and start with soft, easy-to-digest foods. Introduce only one new food at a time and wait a few days before introducing another new food. Remember to avoid foods that can be harmful to babies and always supervise them while they are eating.

FAQs

Q: What age should I start MPASI?
A: You should start MPASI when your baby is ready and has reached the appropriate age and development stage, which is usually around 6 months. Q: Can I mix breast milk with solid foods?
A: Yes, you can mix breast milk with solid foods to make them easier for your baby to swallow. Q: How much solid food should I give my baby?
A: Start with a small amount of solid food, around 1-2 teaspoons, and gradually increase as your baby gets used to it. Q: What should I do if my baby is choking?
A: If your baby is choking, call for emergency help right away. Learn how to perform infant CPR and choking rescue techniques in case of an emergency. Q: Can I give my baby water?
A: Breast milk or formula provides all the hydration your baby needs. Water is not necessary until your baby is older and eating solid foods regularly.