Bringing a baby into the world is one of life’s greatest joys—and challenges. Among the many milestones your little one will reach, starting solid foods is a big one. As exciting as this new stage can be, it often comes with a lot of questions. What should I feed my baby? When should I start? What foods are safe?
If you’re feeling a little overwhelmed, you’re not alone. Let’s break down the basics of baby food to help make this transition easier for both you and your baby.
When to Start Solid Foods
Most babies are ready to start solid foods around 6 months of age. Signs your baby might be ready include:
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Sitting up with little or no support
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Good head and neck control
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Showing interest in food (watching you eat, reaching for food)
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Losing the tongue-thrust reflex (they no longer push food out of their mouth automatically)
Always check with your pediatrician before introducing solids, especially if your baby was born prematurely or has any medical concerns.
First Foods: What to Offer
When your baby is ready, start with soft, single-ingredient foods. These can include:
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Iron-fortified baby cereal (like rice, oatmeal, or barley)
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Pureed fruits (bananas, apples, pears)
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Pureed vegetables (sweet potatoes, carrots, peas)
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Pureed meats (chicken, beef, turkey)
Start with one new food at a time and wait about 3 days before introducing another. This helps you spot any signs of allergies or sensitivities.
Homemade vs. Store-Bought
Both homemade and store-bought baby food can be healthy choices. Here’s a quick comparison:
Homemade Baby Food:
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Pros: You control the ingredients, fresher options, more economical
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Cons: More prep time, requires safe food handling and storage
Store-Bought Baby Food:
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Pros: Convenient, long shelf life, portioned for ease
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Cons: Can contain additives, more expensive over time
No matter what you choose, always read labels and avoid added sugars, salt, and unnecessary preservatives.
Texture and Progression
As your baby gets more comfortable with eating, you can gradually increase the texture and variety of foods:
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6–8 months: Smooth purees and mashed foods
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8–10 months: Thicker mashed foods, soft finger foods (like cooked carrots or banana slices)
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10–12 months: Finely chopped or minced foods, more variety in textures
Let your baby lead—some babies take to solids quickly, while others may need more time.
Foods to Avoid
Some foods should be avoided in the first year:
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Honey (risk of botulism)
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Cow’s milk as a main drink (can cause digestive issues)
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Choking hazards like whole grapes, popcorn, nuts, raw carrots
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Added sugar and salt
Also, be cautious with highly allergenic foods like peanuts, eggs, and seafood—introduce these under your pediatrician’s guidance.
Final Tips
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Always supervise your baby while eating.
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Don’t stress about the mess—it’s part of the learning!
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Trust your baby’s cues. They’ll let you know when they’re full.
Remember, introducing solids isn’t just about nutrition—it’s also about discovering new tastes, textures, and the joy of shared meals. Take your time, have fun, and savor every tiny bite.