This term is often used when we have children, but what is the real story behind food diversification?
First of all, what is food diversification?
The definition given by the famous Larousse is as follows: in infants, a gradual transition from exclusive milk feeding to a varied diet.
IN THE ANTIQUITY
At that time, colostrum (the liquid secreted by the mammary gland in the first few days after birth, before the milk comes in) was considered unfit for consumption by the newborn.
Mothers were encouraged to fast their infants or to give them porridges (or various flours) from their first days. Knowing today the numerous nutritional and immune virtues of colostrum, it is easy to understand that this was not at all appropriate!
FROM THE 16TH TO THE 19TH CENTURY
As early as 1550, we begin to see the beginnings of a food introduction chart with advice to give poultry from 15 months and meat from 2 years.
On the other hand, to flavour the porridges, it was recommended to add milk, egg yolk, aniseed, but also wine or beer!
IN THE 20TH CENTURY
C’est l’ère de l’huile de foie de morue que les générations qui nous précèdent ont bien connu ! Celle-ci étant reconnue comme moyen d’éradiquer le rachitisme grâce à sa forte teneur en vitamine D. Heureusement, il existe aujourd’hui des suppléments sans ce goût particulier…
The medical profession is doing a lot of trial and error: vegetables and fruit are introduced from the first weeks of life; shrimps, tuna and sardines are given from 4 weeks onwards; cereals between the 2nd and 3rd day of life; vegetables from the 10th day; meat from the 14th and fruit from the 17th.
It was not until 1960 that diversification became more consistent, but it still began at around 3 months.
TODAY
The many medical researches and discoveries have made food diversification very codified (and quite complicated) for some parents.
It is recommended to start between the end of the 4th month and the 6th month with the gradual introduction of food.
If you feel lost, don't feel guilty! As you can see, it hasn't always been easy throughout history!
Remember to consult your paediatrician if you have any questions. There are no silly questions 🙂