Just like salt, introducing sugar into a baby’s diet should be approached with caution and timing.In conversation with indianexpress.com, Aastha Grover, lactation consultant, Fortis Hospital, Vasant Kunj, Delhi explained, “At the infancy stage, babies develop taste preferences and nutritional habits that may last a lifetime. Introducing sugar too early can lead to a preference for sweet foods, increasing the risk of obesity, tooth decay, and even metabolic disorders later in life.”Dr Akanksha Parikh, onsultant, Paediatric Endocrinology, Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Mumbai said that The Indian Academy of Pediatrics recommends “exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life.” After this period, the baby should be weaned onto solid food without any added sugar till 12 months of age. Beyond one year, sugar intake should be limited and preferably in its natural form, not in its free form.What happens if sugar is introduced too early in a baby’s diet?Dr Parikh said that overconsumption of fruit juices in infancy can cause gastrointestinal issues such as chronic diarrhea, flatulence, bloating, and abdominal pain. Interestingly, children who consume large amounts of free sugars may still suffer from nutrient deficiencies. Despite weight gain, they may be lacking in key nutrients such as iron, vitamin A, calcium, and others—largely due to the poor nutritional quality of their overall diet. Should your baby have sugar before a year? (Source: Freepik)Dr Neema Sharma, director and unit head, Obstetric and Gyanecology, Fortis Hospital, Vasant Kunj, Delhi, added, “Introducing sugar too early can have negative impacts on a baby’s health, including a higher likelihood of developing dental cavities, unhealthy dietary preferences, nutritional deficiencies, insulin resistance, and unhealthy weight gain. In later stages of life, it may also impact on the cardiovascular health.”How can you incorporate sugar into their diet?According to experts, the healthiest way to introduce natural sweetness is through whole fruits. “Options like mashed bananas, steamed apples, or ripe pears offer natural sugars along with essential nutrients and fiber. These also help babies develop a taste for wholesome, unprocessed foods. Avoid fruit juices and sweetened snacks, as they offer concentrated sugars without the benefits of fiber and may displace more nutrient-rich options in the diet,” advised Grover. Honey should be avoided completely until after 12 months due to the risk of botulism.ALSO READ | What post-dinner sugar cravings are doing to your sleep, metabolism, and healthEarly exposure to sugary foods may dull the palate to naturally sweet and nutritious foods, making it more challenging to encourage healthy eating habits as the child grows. “Parents and caregivers should focus on building a balanced, diverse diet rich in vegetables, fruits, grains, and proteins, as it sets the foundation for lifelong good health and positive eating behaviours,” Dr Sharma added.Story continues below this adDISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.📣 For more lifestyle news, click here to join our WhatsApp Channel and also follow us on Instagram© IE Online Media Services Pvt Ltd