What are the risks/evidence re: weaning between 4-6 months?

[Fedupofplaystation]

DD1 had reflux and struggled with milk. She was an unhappy baby and screamed most of the time until we introduced solids at 5 months. It was as though she could never drink enough milk to satisfy her before it hurt.
DD2 is 17 weeks. She also struggles with reflux, but not as bad as DD1. I've been researching weaning. The NHS advice says to wait until 6 months, but doesn't seem to link to the evidence for this.
Does anyone here know what the risks of weaning in this time frame are and what the percentages of these risks etc. Any links to studies would be appreciated.
Thank you.

[CultureSucksDownWords]

All the research that I have seen about increased risks is about early weaning defined as before 17 weeks. The NHS advice is actually around 6 months and not before 17 weeks, so you would not be going against the guidelines by weaning after 17 weeks.

There is advice about only offering fruit/veg and baby rice before 6 months which is based on allergy risk I think.

[squizita]

One issue with food 17-26 weeks is that due to the digestion and allergy risk, the food is just very low calorie veg. Worse than milk for weight gain.

I've a slow grower and was advised to wait till 6 months so solids I could give would be worth it - not filling her up without the calories she needs.

[Ohbollocksandballs]

DS had reflux, but was a very good weight gainer. I started offering single fruit/veg purees and baby rice at 18 weeks, then started BLW at 6 months

[Mimsey]

I was told before 6 months there is a greater chance of the baby choking. As they get older and their muscles get stronger this risk decreases. A good indicator is that the baby is able to sit unaided.