Introducing your baby to solid foods is a milestone that comes with many questions and concerns. When exactly should you start? What foods are safe to give? How much should you give them?.
When should you introduce solid foods?
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that babies should be exclusively breastfed or formula-fed for the first six months of life. After that, you can start introducing solid foods alongside breast milk or formula.
This does not mean that you have to stop breastfeeding or giving formula. Instead, you can begin to introduce solid foods in small amounts.
How do you know if your baby is ready?
There are a few signs that can indicate your baby is ready to try solid foods:.
- They can hold their head up on their own
- They can sit up with minimal support
- They have lost the tongue-thrust reflex (where they push food out of their mouth with their tongue)
- They show an interest in food by watching you eat and reaching for food
If your baby can do all of these things, they may be ready for solid foods. However, it’s important to note that every baby is different and may reach these milestones at different ages.
You should always talk to your pediatrician if you have any concerns.
What foods are safe to introduce?
When you’re first starting solid foods, it’s important to begin with soft foods that are easy to swallow. You can start with single-ingredient purees, such as:.
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- Avocado
- Banana
- Sweet potato
- Cereal mixed with breast milk or formula
- Peas
You can also try giving your baby small, soft pieces of food that they can pick up and eat on their own, such as soft fruits or cooked vegetables.
It’s important to avoid any foods that could be a choking hazard, such as popcorn, nuts, and raw vegetables.
How much should you give them?
When you’re first starting solid foods, you should only give your baby a small amount at a time. One or two teaspoons of puree or soft, mashed foods is a good place to start.
As your baby gets used to eating solid foods, you can gradually increase the amount you give them.
It’s important to pay attention to your baby’s hunger cues and not force them to eat more than they want. Remember, breast milk or formula should still be the main source of your baby’s nutrition until they are one year old.
What else do you need to know?
Here are a few more things to keep in mind when introducing solid foods:.
- Always supervise your baby when they’re eating
- Introduce new foods one at a time and watch for any signs of an allergic reaction
- Never add salt, sugar, or honey to your baby’s food
- Use a soft, rubber-tipped spoon for feeding
- Don’t give your baby juice or any other sugary drinks
The bottom line
Introducing your baby to solid foods is a milestone that can be exciting and nerve-wracking at the same time. By following these tips and talking to your pediatrician, you can make the transition as smooth as possible for your little one.
