Introducing Solids: The Basics
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends the introduction of solid food at about 6 months of age. Starting solid foods is a very important (and fun) step in your baby’s development.
Add New Foods—One at a Time
As you start to introduce solid food, there is no need to offer foods in a special order. First foods can include: infant cereal, meat, vegetables and fruits that have a smooth consistency. However, iron-rich foods, such as infant cereal or pureed meats (beef, pork, turkey, and chicken) are a good start.
Breastfed infants especially benefit from starting with iron-rich foods. Talk to your healthcare provider about which foods to start first.
Introduce foods slowly; there is really no reason to rush. You can simply follow a “One at a Time” plan; by feeding only one new food to your baby every 3-5 days. This will allow enough time for your baby to get used to a new flavor and to see whether your baby has any allergies to the food.
