Introducing Solid Foods

There are factors considered in determining when to feed your baby with solid foods. These factors include age, appetite and growth rate. As to age, most babies are ready for solid foods between ages 4 months and 6 months. At six months of age, milk alone may not be enough anymore to satisfy his physical needs. Solid foods supply the key nutrients that his body may now need such as iron.

Parents need to determine if their babies are ready to receive solid foods. Do not rush to start giving solids to your babies. Starting solid foods early can cause your baby to develop food allergies. Before giving solid foods, the baby must have met the following requirements:

* able to swallow and digest solid foods
* sit well with support
* can hold and control head upright
* interested in seeing other foods
* able to close lips over a spoon

Introducing your baby on solid foods is the start of lifelong eating habits that will aid to his overall health. It should be done with the help of your pediatrician. Keep on feeding your baby breast milk or formula as usual. Solid food can’t replace all the nutrients that breast milk or formula provides during that first year. When your baby’s doctor says it’s ok to begin supplementing your baby with solid food then that’s the time you can start.

Start with rice cereal, which is gluten-free and less allergenic than other foods. It contains the highest levels of iron, a basic need for fast-growing infants. When feeding your baby, use a rubber-tipped spoon to avoid injuring his gums. Begin with just a small amount of cereal on the spoon tip. Allow your baby to get used to the taste and texture of food. Babies need practice keeping food in their mouths and swallowing.

Introduce other solid foods gradually, one at a time, waiting at least three days after each new food. It will also allow you to observe for signs of food allergy to your baby then you will know which food caused it and you will be able  to avoid giving it again next time you feed. If your baby has high risk of food allergies, you should delay offering solids until he is at least six months old.

You may give solid foods in the following order:
* rice cereal/oatmeal
* other cereals
* fruits
* yellow vegetables
* green vegetables

Make sure the foods you’re introducing are safe for his young digestive system. Avoid foods like cow’s milk, citrus fruits and juices and egg whites until your infant is at least a year old. If your baby turns away from a particular food, don’t force him to take it. Try again in a week or so. To enhance the success, offer the first solid foods when your baby is not full. You need to listen to your baby, support and encourage his own natural development as much as possible.