Quick tips on introducing your baby to solid food

When

Not before 4 months of age. Studies have shown that babies introduced to solid foods before then are at increased risk of obesity, diabetes, celiac disease, and eczema. Not to mention that it can interfere with breastfeeding.

For exclusively breastfed infants, 6 months is the ideal time to introduce baby’s first foods.

In general, most babies show interest and readiness to take in pureed foods between 5-6 months of age. See below.

Readiness Signs

Your baby is 4-6 months old. 6 months old for exclusively breastfed babies.
Your baby can sit up with support, has good head and neck control, can push up with straight elbows when on her belly, and shows interest in food by opening her mouth and leaning forward when the rest of the family is eating.
Your baby no longer has a strong extrusion reflex wherein his tongue forces out anything that is placed between his lips. This reflex typically disappears by 4-5 months of age.
From a practical standpoint, most babies appear to be ready closer to the 5-6 month mark. Don’t rush it, wait until your baby is truly showing you that he’s developmentally ready.

Ideal first foods

Contrary to popular belief and past customs, rice cereal is no longer thought to be the ideal first solid food for baby. Dr. Alan Greene has championed a WhiteOut campaign aimed at getting our babies off to a healthy start and away from refined and processed foods.
Think pureed whole fruit or vegetable. Pureed avocado is a great first food for baby.
Once your baby has accepted the common first foods such as a variety of fruits and vegetables, go ahead and begin introducing foods that contain dairy (save the cow’s milk until after 1 year of age), wheat, eggs, peanuts, and fish. These highly allergenic foods were previously recommended to be introduced on a delayed schedule in order to avoid development of food allergies. However, recent studies reveal that there is no reason to wait and that introducing them sooner rather than later, might actually prevent food allergies in some children. One caveat: if there is a strong history of food allergies in your family, consult with a pediatric allergist prior to forging on.
Introduce a new food once every few days to observe your child for any reactions.

Introducing your baby to solid foods is an exciting milestone for both of you. Have fun with it and be patient with your little one. Let her explore with her hands and follow her lead. Now is the time to foster healthy eating habits that will ensure mealtime is pleasant for everyone. Sure, it’s messy but just think of all the great pictures you’ll have of blueberry covered faces and tiny fingers dipped in squash puree.