Introducing Solid Foods to your Baby

Around four to six months your baby will start to have more control of their own bodies. For example, they will have better head control and will start to sit up. At this time, you may also start to notice your baby gaining weight at a steady, healthy rate. You will also see your baby become more curious about foods that you and your family are eating. When you see these changes, you will know they are a sure sign to start your baby on solid foods. Introducing solid foods is an exciting time to learn and educate yourself and your baby about what foods are healthy and what they like or dislike.

Introducing solid foods should be done with caution and care. Your baby is now getting more nutrition and vitamins than milk or formula has to offer. They are also trying new flavors and textures some of which they will like and some they will spit out. As a parent, you also have to be aware of food allergies. It's really important to record any foods that your baby doesn't like or experiences food allergies with.

Starting solid foods wills also need to be supplemented with milk or formula (preferably a raw milk formula). You don't want to drastically make the switch to solids, but gradually work your way to only feeding your baby solid foods. It is best to start at feed your baby once a day with foods that are easy to digest for one meal, and have them bottle feed or nurse the rest of the day. Some good first foods are organic, soft boiled egg yolk from pastured hens, banana, avocado, papaya or mango. Feeding grains at this young age could lead to grain allergies as they get older. As they reach 10 months you can start incorporating more fruits, vegetables, and meats into their diet.

When preparing foods, remember not add any other seasoning or sweeteners. Sugar is very unhealthy for young children, and this also includes honey. Anything with honey or corn syrup can make your child very ill, and should only be introduced into their diets after they are one year old. Fruit juice should be avoided as well, they provide empty calories and may keep your baby from eating more nutrient dense foods. You may start to notice that your baby will start to get really bad diaper rash with the solid food, so be sure to use diaper ointment when you change them.

The introduction of solid foods should be done at a gradual rate. Let your baby get used to using the muscles in their mouths to swallow food. The taste and texture will be new. Also, you should introduce one type of solid food at a time., and then when adding a vegetable or fruit only try one type a day. Introduce bananas one day and peas the next day for example. Your baby will start to develop an interest in certain types of flavors.