Teething & Weaning: What's the Connection?

Teething and weaning often happen around the same time, which can make it difficult to know what's causing changes in your baby's behaviour. While every baby is different, it's common for teething to temporarily affect their appetite (and even what's happening in their nappy!).

As new teeth start to come through, it can be uncomfortable and some babies become less enthusiastic about eating. You may notice your baby:

• Eating smaller amounts than usual
• Refusing favourite foods
• Wanting to breastfeed or bottle feed more often
• Preferring softer foods
• Becoming frustrated during mealtimes

This is usually temporary - and let’s be honest - may or may not be due to teething (you’ll never know for sure!) - but the good news is, it’s generally passes quickly.  

Continuing to offer a variety of foods, without pressure, helps your baby maintain confidence around eating. It's normal for intake to fluctuate from day to day, particularly during periods of rapid development.

Many parents also notice changes in their baby's nappies during teething. It’s a common myth that teething can cause diarrhoea – but the scientific evidence is lacking here, and if diarrhoea is persistent, or occurs alongside vomiting, a raised temperature or any other symptoms, you should consult your doctor. 

 What is for sure, is that you’ll notice an increase in drooling and even more things end up in the mouth than before – and this can sometimes lead to rather ‘interesting’ nappies!  

Practical Tips for Teething During Weaning

1. Offer chilled foods
   Cold cucumber sticks, yoghurt, fruit purées or chilled fruit can help soothe sore gums.
   
   
2. Follow your baby's lead
   Some days they may eat less. That's okay. Continue offering food without pressure.
   
   
3. Keep mealtimes relaxed
   A calm environment helps reduce frustration when babies are already uncomfortable.
   
   
4. Continue offering opportunities to self-feed
   Even if your baby eats less, exploring food still supports sensory development and learning.
   
   
5. Offer water with meals
   Drinking can help babies stay hydrated, particularly if they're dribbling more than usual. Using an open cup rather than a spout can be gentler on sensitive gums.

Teething can make weaning feel more challenging, but try not to worry.  Changes in appetite and food preferences (and even nappies!) are often a normal part of this developmental stage - but it will pass.   With patience, flexibility and plenty of opportunities to explore food, most babies quickly return to their usual eating habits - once those pesky teeth come through.