When to start feeding babies solids?
There is no possible doubt: the best food for newborns is breast milk, and in case of intolerance, the formula. Therefore, there must be fed solids until after 6 months. However, it is natural to wonder when exactly the baby’s body can absorb such nutritious foods for human health such as cereals and vegetables.
Signs that a baby is ready
After 4 months, especially coming at 6, infants begin to show signs that they are already accepting some solid food. You’ll notice that your child is more aware of your environment, you want your meals, but also puts objects in his mouth, stares while eating and often still hungry after being fed.
First solid food
Just then the best food to start the new habit is eating rice cereal fortified with iron. This mineral is very beneficial in this age and the type of rice is a grain with a low probability of allergic reactions.
You should start with very small amounts. Remember that it’s time to keep trying if you baby’s stomach can assimilate something solid. It is sufficient to provide a bite at first. Then you can increase the dosage to two tablespoons if you see that all is well.
Fruits and vegetables
Once the grain has been incorporated into the baby’s usual diet (combined with breast milk or formula) can start the same process but with pureed vegetables and fruits. Should be given one week between each feed, which helps ensure that no problems are treated. Give the little new foods for breakfast or lunch, not dinner. This prevents an accident on sleep schedules.
Pureed meat should not be given until after 7 or 8 months old. The protein levels of this nutrient are very high, even impossible to digest so young stomachs.
And very importantly, any food that you give your baby in these early stages should have a semi-liquid consistency, it is best for your digestive system. Over time, the body will become stronger and you can increase the texture and consistency even more.