Introducing Solids

Introducing solid foods can be confusing for parents because of the mixed information available. Reference THIS post on introducing solids and for great links to baby food recipes. 

Additional information on starting solids can be found at HealthyChildren.org, with information from the American Academy of Pediatrics.

Click HERE for information on when to introduce solids.

Click HERE for information on introducing specific foods.

Here are a few highlights from the articles;

-Infants are often ready to start solids between 4 and 6 months.

-Start with a single grain cereal such as rice cereal.

-Make certain that the cereal is fortified with iron.

-Mix cereal with breast milk or warm formula.

-The first feedings should be somewhat runny, with 1 Tbs cereal for every 4-5 Tbs fluid.

-Gradually introduce other single-ingredient baby foods such as fruits, vegetables and meats.

-Wait 2-3 days (some pediatricians suggest waiting up to a week, click here for specifics) after introducing a new food before introducing another. This will help you to rule out specific food allergies.

HAPPY EATING!

Taken in part from:

http://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/feeding-nutrition/pages/Getting-Started-with-Solid-Foods.aspx

http://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/feeding-nutrition/Pages/Switching-To-Solid-Foods.aspx

http://life.familyeducation.com/allergies/feeding-baby/61918.html