According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, you can begin introducing solid foods to your baby around 6 months of age. Solid foods should add to — not replace — breastfeeding or formula feeding until around 12 months. Make sure to always discuss your baby’s feeding next steps with their doctor before introducing any foods, including those known to cause allergic reactions, such as nuts, dairy, and eggs.
Here Are Some Healthy “First Foods” for Babies
- Vegetables: Mashed or pureed sweet potatoes, carrots, and peas are rich in vitamins and fiber.
- Fruits: Bananas, avocado, unsweetened applesauce, blueberries, and raspberries are nutritious, fiber-rich, and easy to digest.
- Meats: Minced turkey, chicken, or beef provide protein, iron, and zinc.
Introduce one new food at a time. That way, if your baby has a reaction, you’ll know exactly which food caused it. Start with pureed foods like bananas, carrots, and avocados at 6 months. Once your baby handles purees well, move on to softened chunks about the size of a marble, or harder pieces about the size of a pea. Since iron levels in breastfed babies often dip around 6 months, prioritize iron-rich foods early on.
A Door of Hope’s parenting education and mentorship program addresses feeding your baby. To learn more about the Hope Program, call 302-998-9000.
Visit https://americanpregnancy.org/healthy-pregnancy/breastfeeding/how-to-wean-your-baby/ for more information on Baby Weaning and Introducing Solid Foods.