Find out why your 1-year-old baby may be nursing more than eating and how to handle this developmental stage.
If your one year old seems to be breastfeeding more than eating solid foods, you are not alone. This is a very common phase and often linked to normal developmental changes, teething, illness, and emotional regulation. Understanding the reasons behind this behaviour can help you feel more confident and relaxed about feeding.
Read More: Why does my 12-month-old prefer the bottle over solids?
Developmental Leaps After 12 Months
One of the main reasons your baby may start nursing more often after their first birthday is a developmental leap that commonly happens around this time. Many babies are mastering big new skills such as walking, climbing, and communicating more intentionally, all of which require extra energy and can feel overwhelming.
During this stage, breast milk continues to play an important role, providing both nutrition and comfort. Nursing helps meet increased energy needs while also offering reassurance and emotional regulation as your child adjusts to rapid physical, cognitive, and emotional growth.
Illness and Reduced Interest in Solids
When babies are unwell, it is very common for them to prefer breast milk over solid foods. Breast milk is gentle on the stomach, easy to digest, and helps keep them hydrated. It also contains immune supporting components that can help their bodies fight off illness and recover.
If your one year old is nursing more than eating during sickness, this is usually temporary and part of normal self regulation.
Teething and Increased Breastfeeding
Teething is another common reason a 12 month old may show less interest in solid foods. Sore or swollen gums can make chewing uncomfortable, especially for foods with more texture. Breastfeeding can feel soothing and familiar during this time, which is why many babies nurse more frequently while teething.
Once discomfort eases, interest in food often returns gradually.
Changes in Routine or Environment
Major changes, such as moving to a new home or adjusting to a new schedule, can feel unsettling for babies. Travel, starting daycare, or changes in caregivers can all increase a child’s need for reassurance. During these times, more frequent nursing helps them feel safe and connected.
Read More: 5 things you should never do when introducing solids
Is It Normal for a One Year Old to Prefer Breast Milk?
Yes, it can be completely normal for a toddler to breastfeed more than eat at times. Many parents worry that their one year old is not eating enough solid food, but breast milk can still provide a meaningful part of a toddler’s nutrition, especially during periods of growth, illness, or stress.
Signs things are generally going well include steady growth, regular wet diapers, meeting developmental milestones, and some interest in food even if intake varies day to day.
How to Encourage Solids Without Pressure
While breast milk continues to play an important role, solid foods are also essential for your baby’s growth and development. One of the best ways to encourage interest in food is by modelling it yourself. Sitting together at the table and offering a variety of nourishing foods helps your baby feel curious and more willing to explore new tastes and textures.
If your baby refuses certain foods at first, that is completely normal. Keep offering them calmly and without pressure. Repeated exposure over time supports familiarity and confidence with eating.
When to Seek Support
If you have ongoing concerns about growth, weight gain, or feeding stress, speaking with a pediatrician or feeding professional can offer reassurance and personalised guidance. Support is not a sign that something is wrong, but a way to feel more confident moving forward.
A Gentle Reminder
If your one year old is nursing more than eating, remember that this phase is often temporary and developmentally appropriate. Stay relaxed, continue breastfeeding, and keep gently introducing solid foods at meals. Every baby moves at their own pace, and this stage of increased reliance on breast milk will pass.
Now that you understand the reasons behind this behaviour, take a moment to breathe and appreciate this stage of your baby’s growth and learning. If you would like to learn more about breastfeeding and complementary feeding, you can download the BLW Meals app for free and explore the guides available.
Further Reading:
Feeding Infants from Birth to 24 months https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK559362/
