Welcoming a new member into the family is an exciting journey filled with numerous milestones. One significant transition in a baby's life is the introduction of supplementary food. This pivotal step not only marks a shift in nutritional needs but also plays a crucial role in their overall development. In this article, we'll explore the various aspects of when and how to start supplementary food for babies.

Around 6 months of age

Exclusive breastfeeding or formula feeding is recommended for the first six months of life. Around the age of 6 months, most babies show signs of readiness for solid foods. These signs include:

Head control

The baby can sit up with support and hold their head steady.

Loss of the tongue-thrust reflex

The baby no longer automatically pushes out food with their tongue.

Ability to move food to the back of the mouth and swallow.

Interest in what others are eating: The baby may watch others eat with curiosity.

1. Introduction of single-grain baby cereal: Start with single-grain baby cereal mixed with breast milk or formula. Rice cereal is commonly recommended due to its low allergenicity, but other grains like oat or barley can also be used.

2. Gradual introduction of pureed fruits and vegetables: After a few weeks of introducing cereal, you can gradually introduce pureed fruits and vegetables one at a time. This allows you to monitor the baby for any allergic reactions.
3. Introduction of protein sources: Once the baby has successfully tolerated single-ingredient fruits and vegetables, you can introduce pureed meats and other protein sources.
4. Introduce one new food at a time: To help identify any potential allergies or sensitivities, it's recommended to introduce one new food at a time and wait a few days before introducing another.
5. Gradual transition to textured and finger foods: As the baby becomes more adept at eating and shows signs of chewing, you can introduce textured and finger foods appropriate for their developmental stage.

Always consult with your pediatrician before introducing solid foods, as individual babies may have unique needs or considerations. Additionally, it's important to be aware of potential food allergies and introduce common allergens, like peanuts, eggs, and dairy, in consultation with your healthcare provider.