Solid foods for babies

One of the first challenges that first-time parents face is introducing solid foods to their babies. Typically, this introduction occurs between 4 and 6 months of age. Specialists recommend breastfeeding or formula feeding until six months as it provides all the necessary calories and nutritional value, but how can you tell if the baby is ready to take the next step?

It is common for children to show signs that they are ready to eat solids on their own since they cannot speak. When they can control their head, have lost the extrusion reflex, and make chewing movements, they are asking for other food. Also, if they are increasingly hungry, gaining weight, and showing curiosity about what their parents are eating, then these are undeniable signs that they are ready.

What foods can be introduced into their diet?

From four months onwards, the following foods can be gradually introduced:

• Vegetables in puree or mashed form
• Fruits in puree or mashed form
• Meats in puree form
• Semi-liquid cereal

These changes should be introduced in a way that does not cause rejection. It is advisable to introduce them one by one, with several days between each one. Apart from getting used to the new textures and flavors, the aim is to identify possible allergies or intolerances.

More foods are added to the list from six months onwards.

• Cottage cheese
• Natural yogurt
• Legumes
• Water

At eight months, small pieces of food that can be picked up with fingers can be introduced.

It is very important not to overfeed the baby. The baby itself can determine when they are satisfied or full. In terms of growth, it will be the pediatrician who will decide whether more or fewer changes need to be made to their diet. Equally important is not to force the baby to eat foods they don't like in the early stages.

Don't be alarmed if the baby's stool changes color and odor when introducing solid food.

And most importantly of all, be patient. Do not rush the baby to eat quickly and enjoy each new discovery together with them. This is the only way to establish healthy eating habits.