Starting solid foods is one of the most exciting milestones in your baby’s first year, but it can also be confusing. Many parents ask the same question: when should I start solids, and how do I know my baby is ready?
When do babies start solid foods?
Most health professionals recommend starting solids at around 6 months of age. Before this point, a baby’s digestive system and motor skills are still developing, and breast milk or formula provides all the nutrition they need.
Signs your baby is ready for solids
Your baby may be ready if they can:
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Sit upright with minimal support
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Hold their head steady
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Show interest in food when others are eating
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Bring objects or food to their mouth
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Move food from a spoon to the back of their mouth
If these signs aren’t present yet, waiting a little longer is perfectly fine.
Best first foods for babies
When starting solids, focus on simple, single-ingredient foods:
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Iron-rich foods like mashed lentils or soft meats
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Vegetables such as sweet potato, pumpkin, and carrot
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Fruits like pear, apple, and avocado
Textures should be smooth or softly mashed at first. As your baby grows, gradually introduce thicker textures and soft finger foods.
How much should my baby eat?
In the beginning, solids are about exploration, not quantity. A few spoonfuls once a day is enough. Milk feeds should remain the primary source of nutrition until 12 months.