If you are having doubts about introducing solid foods to your little one, you’re at the right place. This article is all about starting your baby on solids, with tips, do’s and don’ts. So, let’s get started!
What is weaning?
In simple terms, the introduction of adult food without the withdrawal of breast milk is called weaning. However, you should start weaning only if your child is ready to taste the real flavor of solid food.
When should you start weaning?
Generally, your baby is ready for weaning between 4 to 6 months as a complement to breastfeeding. But, you must make sure of the following before starting your baby on solids:
- Your baby can sit without or with little support and has good head control.
- Your baby’s tongue-thrust reflex has disappeared.
- Your child is hungry even after breastfeeding (32 Ounces a day)
So, what do you think? Is your little hero ready?
How to start weaning your baby
Remember, your child needs solid food as a complement to breast milk or formula, not as a total replacement initially. So, you should follow certain rules:
- You can offer one food at a time for 4 to 5 days to see how your baby’s body reacts and look out for allergies, diarrhea, a rash, or vomiting.
- You should find the perfect time after analyzing your milk supply and your baby’s mood.
- Don’t worry too much about proper portions.
Common foods for weaning
No matter what you cook, if you are starting your baby on solids, you have to make super smooth purees for your little one. You should smash the solid foods and then thin it with liquid, if necessary.
Gradually as your baby grows into an experienced eater, you can thicken the texture of the purees.
Now, how do you decide what is essential for him? So, here’s the list:
- Cereals – Brown rice, whole-grain barley, iron-rich cereal
- Vegetables – Green vegetables, sweet potatoes, carrots
- Fruits – Mashed banana, pears, peaches, baby applesauce
You can also introduce mashed eggs, beans, tofu, minced meat, and many other things.
Food to avoid
You must not give your baby any food items that won’t dissolve readily in the mouth, can’t be mashed with the gums or doesn’t easily move down the food pipe. You should avoid:
- Uncooked raisins
- Large chunks of meat or poultry
- Chunky nut butter
- Hot dogs
- Nuts
- Popcorn
Try Cup Feeding
Here’s an idea. Why don’t you try feeding your baby using a cup? You can take any cup, maybe your teacup, a plain cup or even the cup-shaped cap that covers the feeding bottle. Now, fill this cup with milk or any other liquid, to a level just enough to enable your baby to take a sip without much effort.
Did you know that according to the World Health Organization, cup feeding is a superior method as compared to bottle feeding? Yes, it’s true!
Final Words
If you are still confused about your decision of starting your baby on solids, take your time. Analyze your little one’s habits and then start with simple mashed foods. Your baby’s first solid food can be served at room temperature or slightly colder or warmer.
An adventurous new taste will definitely amaze your little one.
