Understanding the different types of sugar

Many mothers start introducing solid foods to their babies at around six months of age. As babies growthey need different foods to support their development.

However parents should understand that not all types of sugar are the same. Some occur naturally in foods while others should be avoided during early childhood.

The first year of a baby’s life is very important for physical and mental development. Proper nutrition during this period helps support healthy growth brain development, digestion and the immune system.

Different types of sugar

According to Indian media reports, parents should know the difference between the main types of sugar found in babies’ diets. These include lactose sucrose and fructose. Each type has different sources and effects on a child’s health.

Lactose

Natural sugar in breast milk

Lactose is a natural sugar found in breast milk and most standard infant formulas. It provides energy that babies need for growth and development. It also supports brain development during the early stages of life.

Lactose helps the body absorb calcium which is important for strong bones and teeth. Breast milk also contains special substances called Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMOs). These help good bacteria grow in the baby’s gut and support the immune system.

Sucrose

Added sugar babies do not need

Sucrose is the common white sugar used in everyday foods. It is made up of glucose and fructose. Unlike lactose, it is not naturally present in breast milk and babies do not need extra sucrose in their diet.

It may be found in baby biscuits sweet cereals and sugary drinks. According to paediatric experts, giving babies sweet foods regularly at an early age may affect their taste preferences.

They may become more interested in sugary foods and less willing to eat vegetables and other healthy foods.

Too much added sugar can also increase the risk of tooth decay and provide extra calories without offering important nutrients.

Fructose

•Natural sugar found in fruits

Fructose is a natural sugar found in fruits and honey. When babies start eating solid foods at around six months, parents can introduce soft mashed fruits as part of a balanced diet.

Experts generally recommend giving whole or mashed fruits instead of fruit juice.  This allows babies to get fibre, vitamins and other useful nutrients.

However, honey should never be given to babies under one year of age. It may contain bacteria that can cause a serious illness called infant botulism.

Important feeding tips for parents

Experts recommend following a few simple guidelines when introducing new foods to babies

Exclusive breastfeeding

Babies should ideally receive only breast milk during their first six months. Infant formula is an alternative when breastfeeding is not possible or suitable.

Introduce foods slowly

Start solid foods at around six months and offer one new food at a time to observe the baby’s response.

Check food labels Read the ingredients of packaged baby foods to identify added sugar honey and syrups.

Avoid sugary foods Do not make sweet biscuits, desserts and sugary drinks a regular part of a baby’s diet.

Choose healthy options

Soft vegetables, mashed fruits and other nutritious foods can help babies develop healthy eating habits.

When should parents be concerned?

Paediatrician Dr B. Prashant Babu advises parents not to assume that gas discomfort or irritability automatically means a baby has lactose intolerance.

Parents should consult a paediatrician before changing their baby’s formula milk. Unnecessary changes in feeding can affect a baby’s nutrition.

Developing healthy eating habits during the first year can help children become familiar with nutritious foods and make healthier food choices as they grow.