#asktheexpert my sister's daughter spits alot while eating. She is 13 months old. Is that normal? What can be done

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Accepted Answer

Spitting food or milk is quite common for babies, especially around the age of 13 months. At this stage, babies are still developing their chewing and swallowing skills, and it's normal for them to sometimes spit food out. However, if it's happening frequently or accompanied by other symptoms, it’s good to monitor and take some steps to help reduce the spitting.

Reasons for Spitting: Development of Chewing Skills: At 13 months, babies are still learning how to chew properly. They may spit out food because they’re not yet able to break it down as efficiently. Teething: Teething can make babies fussy during meals and can contribute to spitting food out. Disinterest or Preference: Sometimes babies don’t like the taste, texture, or temperature of the food and may spit it out. Eating Too Fast: Babies may sometimes spit food out if they’re eating too quickly or trying to take in too much at once. Mouth Sensitivity: Some babies have sensitive mouths and may find certain textures uncomfortable, leading to spitting. Tips to Reduce Spitting: Offer Smaller Portions: Provide smaller pieces of food so your baby doesn’t feel overwhelmed. Offer bite-sized pieces they can easily handle. Ensure Proper Chewing: Encourage your baby to chew their food thoroughly. You may also want to offer softer foods that are easier to chew. Make Mealtime Calm and Relaxed: Create a calm environment during meals so your baby doesn’t feel rushed or distracted. Check for Teething Discomfort: If your baby is teething, offering a teething ring or giving some chilled foods can provide comfort during meals. Introduce New Textures Gradually: If your baby is not used to solid food, slowly introduce new textures and flavors. This helps them get used to eating solids without overwhelming them. Use a Bib or Napkin: While the spitting may not be preventable at this age, using a bib or napkin can help keep things less messy. Modeling: Eating together and showing how to chew and swallow can encourage your baby to mimic the behavior. When to Seek Medical Help: If the spitting is accompanied by other signs like difficulty swallowing, choking, vomiting, or if your baby consistently refuses to eat, it may be a sign of a feeding issue or an underlying condition, and it’s a good idea to consult a pediatrician.

In most cases, spitting is a phase that will pass as your baby develops better eating habits. If your sister remains concerned or notices any unusual signs, seeking guidance from a pediatrician or feeding therapist can provide additional support.