When to start solids for babies?

Indian Academy of Pediatrics recommends exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months continuing with breast feeds on demand. There are few prerequisites for starting solids for baby.

What are the signs that indicate your baby is ready for solids?

• Your baby can hold her head, Head control milestone is mostly achieved by the end of 3^rd month.
• The baby can sit upright with or without support.
• The baby can move the tongue and does not push the food out that means that the Baby has lost the tongue thrust reflex.
• Baby is making chewing motions.
• Baby shows interest in food and tries to grab food while the family eats.
• Now that your baby is ready for solids, please read the below precautions before starting solids. 

Precautions to follow before starting solids

• Always keep the baby seated while feeding solids. 
• Never place the baby on the lap or legs while feeding.
• Sterilize all baby utensils before feeding.
• Always follow the 3 day rule while introducing any new foods.
• What is 3 Day Rule?
• First Day – One tablespoon once a day
• Second Day – 2 Tablespoon twice a day
• Third Day – 3 Tablespoon twice a day
• Always prepare fresh food for babies.
• Use a soft tipped spoon for feeding.

Characteristics of the first food for Babies

• The first food mostly can be a softly mashed puree or dal ka paani or chawal ka paani.
• It should be easily digestible.
• Make the puree runny at first by adding breastmilk or formula and slowly increase the consistency of the food.
• It is always advisable to start with homemade baby food rather than commercial preparations.
• To make puree, steaming is preferred over boiling of the vegetables and fruits as steaming preserves the nutrients.

Author Bio

I am Dr.Hemapriya, a.k.a the “Doctor Mommy”. I am a medical doctor by profession, no longer into active medical practice as my two little moppets keep me pretty much busy. But, this has not stopped me from putting my medical knowledge to good use.