| Introducing
Solids
The time to introduce solids can vary between babies. Your baby
may be ready for solids any time between four months and six months.
Baby will show several signs that they are ready such as having
sufficient head and neck control, so that they can tell you when
they have had enough by turning their heads away. Baby will have
sufficient tongue control, from front to back of the mouth so that
food is moved in this direction. Your baby starts life with tongue
movement that only goes up and down and will automatically spit
the food out if they are not ready. Baby will start to look around
and show an interest when you are eating. They may not put on the
expected weight gain, as they cannot obtain all their energy needs
from their milk feeds.
The order in which to introduce
foods is usually rice cereal, vegetables, fruit, milk puddings,
cheese, meats, legumes and egg yolk. All foods should be introduced
one at a time over a period of days in case of allergies. Only a
small amount of babies will suffer from food allergies however,
it is always best to be cautious. Babies start with one meal per
day. This is usually given after the 10.00am feed. About two weeks
later a second meal can be introduced after the 6.00pm feed, however,
it is best to introduce new foods in the mornings. A third meal
is usually introduced in a month’s time.
The first month rice cereal
mixed with either breast milk or water can be introduced. Initially
give 1-2 teaspoons of rice cereal mixed with 15-30ml of either breast
milk or water. Gradually increase both the consistency and amount
given. Follow your baby’s appetite in increasing the amount. Diluted
fruit juice is also suitable around this time.
Once rice cereal is well established
pureed vegetables and then fruit (not berry fruits or passion fruit)
may be introduced. Pumpkin, sweet potato or potato are usually introduced
first. Baby food should always be spoon fed, not given through a
bottle.
When baby has been eating solids
for about two months, usually between 6 and 8 months old finely
minced meat, chicken and fish can be added as well as yoghurt, custard,
bread (not wholegrain) and other baby cereals.
Between 7 and 9 months vegetables
and fruit can be coarsely mashed and mild cheese, legumes such as
baked beans and lentils and egg yolk can be introduced. Between
8 and 9 months finger foods such as cooked vegetable strips, peeled
soft fruit wedges or slices, small tender pieces of meat, rusks
and pasta can be added to the diet and baby should be encouraged
to start drinking formula or juice from a cup with help.
From 10 to 12 months baby can
start feeding themselves serving them vegetables, fruit, cereal,
bread, weetbix, porridge, fish, meats, chicken and cheese. Egg whites,
cows milk and peanut butter should not be given until baby is 12
months old.
Always remember to wait two
to three days before introducing a new food. Never force your baby
to finish a bottle or food. Avoid adding sugar and salt and do not
give your baby small hard food such as nuts, seeds, popcorn or small
lollies as these can choke your baby.
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