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Introducing Foods to Your Baby

Table of Contents


Overview

When to start giving your baby solid foods

Breast milk or formula is the only food that babies need for the first 6 months of life. At about 6 months, you can slowly start to introduce solid foods along with breast milk or formula. But each baby is different. Ask your doctor when you can start feeding your baby solid foods.

Knowing that your baby is ready to eat solid foods

Your baby may be ready to eat solid foods when your baby:

Introducing solid foods to your baby

There are many ways you can start feeding your baby solid foods. Finding what works for you and your family takes time and practice. Here are some ways you can start giving your baby their first solid foods.

Good first foods for your baby

There isn't one "best" first food for your baby. Instead, it can be helpful to think about the many first foods your baby will try. These foods can come from a jar or be cooked at home. Either way, make sure foods are served soft and chopped small for your baby to eat.

Here are some good first foods for babies.

Foods to avoid when introducing foods to your baby

When you start to feed solid foods to your baby, there are some things you want to avoid. Some foods aren't safe or healthy for babies.

Here's a list of foods to avoid for your baby:


Credits for Introducing Foods to Your Baby

Current as of: October 24, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff (https://www.healthwise.org/specialpages/legal/abouthw/en)
Clinical Review Board (https://www.healthwise.org/specialpages/legal/abouthw/en)
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.


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