How to start solids?

1. Go slowly

Starting solids is a gradual process. Your baby still gets most of their nutrition from breast milk or formula at first.

2. Start small

In the beginning, a few spoonfuls is enough. Some babies may only eat 1 to 2 tablespoons at first.

3. Match the texture to your baby’s skills

Start with foods that are soft, mashed, pureed, or easy to swallow. As your baby gets better at eating, you can slowly move to thicker, lumpier, and more textured foods.

4. Introduce one new food at a time

Offer one new food, then wait a few days before introducing another one. This makes it easier to spot possible allergy or intolerance reactions.

5. Keep trying

It is normal for babies to reject a new food at first. They may need to try the same food many times before accepting it.

6. Choose nutrient-rich foods

Once solids start, it is important to include foods rich in nutrients, especially iron.

7. Do not add salt or sugar

Babies do not need added salt or sugar in their food.

Sources

• WHO: Complementary feeding
• CDC: How Much and How Often To Feed
• CDC: When, What, and How to Introduce Solid Foods
• NHS: Your baby’s first solid foods
• HealthyChildren: When to Introduce Egg, Peanut Butter, and Other Common Allergens