Is It Time to Start Your Baby on Solid Foods?

As your baby grows, it’s common to wonder when he will be ready for solid foods. For breastfed babies, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends they should only receive breastmilk until six months of age before starting solid foods. If the baby is formula fed, he or she may be ready to start solids as early as four months. You can consider adding solid foods if your baby has the strength enough to sit up, hold the head up high, and show you a desire to take feedings to the next level. Here's some information you need to know about transitioning to solid foods.

When to Introduce Solid Foods

Babies usually show signs when they are ready to have something more fulfilling added to their menu. You may notice that your baby starts opening her mouth and looking for something additional after the bottle feeding. You might also see the baby looking at your food when you eat close by. Additionally, you can tell that your baby is ready when he or she can sit up and signal you about being satisfied or unsatisfied with the food you've provided.

Good Foods to Try

You should only introduce one new food item every three days so you can gauge the baby's reaction and tolerance to each item. Start with things that do not have added salt and sugar. Make sure they are soft items such as infant cereal, mashed bananas, sweet potatoes, and so on. You should watch the baby's diaper to make sure that no food allergies exist as diarrhea is a sign of a possible food allergy.

Foods to Avoid

You will need to avoid certain solid foods to prevent your child from choking. Don't offer your baby hard candies, nuts, or popcorn. You also want to avoid foods such as hot dogs and raw vegetables if they aren't crushed to prevent issues.Contact us and schedule a visit with our experienced pediatrician if you have any questions about starting your baby on solid foods or other pediatric concerns.