When compared with parental spoon-feeding, infants allowed baby-led weaning learned to regulate their food intake leading to lower BMI and a preferance for healthier dietary patterns. When children were introduced to solid foods by feeding themselves, they preferred carbohydrates over other types, as well as protein-based foods and whole grains. If spoon-fed with pureed foods the children tended to become obese and prefer sugar-sweetened foods. More research is needed to explore these fascinating findings.
PositiveTip: Baby may know best! Parents should be patient and not force solid foods on their young children.