#asktheexperts is it okay to let baby sleep on nursing. Because he only sleeps when nursing otherwise he started crying and irritated to get him sleep the other way. Or what can we do to get him sleep beside rely on nursing sleep.

Question

Accepted Answer

It is generally okay for a baby to fall asleep while nursing, especially in the early months, as it provides comfort and bonding. Babies naturally find nursing soothing, and the combination of warmth, closeness, and being fed can make them feel secure enough to fall asleep. However, there are a few things to keep in mind:

1. Habit Formation: If your baby consistently falls asleep while nursing, it could become a sleep association, meaning your baby might expect to be nursed every time they want to sleep, which could make independent sleep challenging later on.

2. Burping: Babies who fall asleep while nursing may swallow air during feeding. It's important to burp the baby gently afterward to reduce gas or discomfort.

3. Dental Health (later months): Once your baby starts teething, falling asleep with milk in the mouth can increase the risk of tooth decay (if still breastfeeding or bottle-feeding at bedtime). Once the baby has teeth, wiping the gums or brushing the teeth before sleep is recommended.

If your baby is nursing for comfort and it helps them sleep, there’s generally no harm in allowing it during the earlier months. However, over time, you may want to gradually encourage independent sleep habits to avoid dependency.

Accepted Answer

Here are a few vegetable recipes suitable for an 8-month-old baby:

1. Carrot and Pea Puree:

Ingredients: 1 carrot, a handful of peas, water.

Method: Steam or boil the carrot and peas until soft. Blend into a smooth puree. Add a little water or breast milk for desired consistency.

2. Sweet Potato and Spinach Mash:

Ingredients: 1 small sweet potato, a handful of spinach.

Method: Steam or boil the sweet potato until soft. Steam the spinach for a few minutes. Mash both together and serve.

3. Zucchini and Potato Mash:

Ingredients: 1 zucchini, 1 small potato.

Method: Boil or steam both veggies until tender. Mash or blend together with a little water or formula.

4. Pumpkin and Broccoli Puree:

Ingredients: A small piece of pumpkin, a few broccoli florets.

Method: Steam both until soft. Blend into a smooth consistency, adding water as needed.

5. Mixed Veggie Soup:

Ingredients: Carrot, peas, potato, spinach, and a pinch of cumin (optional).

Method: Boil all veggies until soft, blend into a soup, and strain if necessary.

Tips:

Always ensure that vegetables are well-cooked and soft enough for your baby to eat.

Introduce new vegetables one at a time to ensure there are no allergies.

You can add a small amount of ghee or butter for extra flavor and nutrition.

These simple and nutritious recipes will help your baby get used to different textures and flavors.