文摘
Triggered by recent publications on possible effects of the timing of introducing complementary foods and the development of food intolerance, the Committee on Nutrition of the German Society of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine comments again on this topic. We confirm the recommendation based on different considerations to introduce complementary foods not before the age of 17 weeks and not later than 26 weeks. At the same time products with strong allergenic potency can also be introduced. An early introduction of glutens from the age of 17 weeks onwards does not reduce the later risk of celiac disease, based on current knowledge. Delayed introduction of gluten-containing cereals in genetically predisposed children appears to delay the manifestation of celiac disease without reducing the incidence. The introduction of complementary foods with strong allergenic potency from the age of 17 weeks onwards might be potentially beneficial for allergy prevention, but conclusive evidence is lacking. Considering oral motor development, nutrient supply, allergy prevention and an adequate duration of exclusive breast feeding, introduction of complementary foods prior to the age of 17 weeks is explicitly discouraged.