Weaning

The gradual transition from breast milk to other liquid and solid foods, which could constitute a danger point in nutritional terms.

The process of gradually substituting solid foods for breastfeeding or bottle feeding with formula.

The gradual transition from getting nourishment from the breast or bottle to drinking from a cup. There is no right or wrong time to make this transition, but most doctors recommend weaning babies from the breast or bottle after the first birthday. (Solid foods are usually started between 4 and 6 months.) Breast milk or formula should be given to babies until their digestive system matures, at around age 1. After age 1, cow’s milk can be introduced. Giving cow’s milk before age 1 can be harmful because a child’s kidneys cannot yet excrete the excess calcium and phosphorus that are present in cow’s milk.

Usually in infancy, the gradual transition from breast or bottle to drinking from a cup and eating solid foods. Weaning is a natural step in growing up. There is no right or wrong time to make this transition, and often it is easiest to let the child control the timing of the process. Most doctors recommend introducing solid foods around 6 months of age and weaning babies from the breast or bottle after the first birthday. Breast milk or formula should be given to babies until the digestive system matures. After age 1 year, cow’s milk can be introduced to the child.

The process by which a baby is introduced to solid foods after having only had breast milk or artificial milk to drink. The transfer usually starts at around 4—5 months of age but many parents prefer not to wait.

Any gradual tapering of supportive therapy, e.g., of the ventilatory support provided to a patient in respiratory failure by a mechanical ventilator.