When should I start introducing solid foods to my baby?

Introduction to Complementary Feeding — Step by Step Guide 💙

In short: The World Health Organization recommends 6 months of breastfeeding only before you start complementary feeding. At 5 months it might be a bit early — but every baby is different. Look for signs of readiness.

Signs that your baby is ready

• ✅ Sits up with minimal support — good control of head and neck
• ✅ Shows interest in food — reaches out, opens mouth
• ✅ Tongue thrust reflex has decreased — doesn't push food out of mouth
• ✅ Can grasp objects and bring them to mouth

What to start with?

First suitable foods:

• Cooked sweet potato — soft and sweet, babies love it
• Carrot or pumpkin puree — rich in vitamins
• Avocado — rich in healthy fats
• Banana — easy to prepare
• Yogurt — excellent for digestion
• Pear or apple puree — cooked, no added sugar

Golden rules

1. Only one new food per day — wait 3-4 days (for allergies)
2. No salt and sugar — until 1 year old
3. No honey — until 12 months (risk of botulism)
4. Breastfeeding continues — complementary food is added alongside breastfeeding, not instead of it
5. Be patient — your baby may need 10-15 tries before accepting a food

What other moms say?

"My mother used to tell me 'we started with soups at 3 months'. But the doctor said to wait until 6 months. I trusted the doctor and my baby started eating very well when she was ready."

When should you see a doctor?

• If your baby has allergic reactions (redness, swelling, vomiting)
• If she refuses every food even after several weeks
• If you have questions about specific foods

This information does not replace medical advice.