Introduce solids gradually starting around 6 months

Begin offering solid foods around 6 months of age while continuing breast milk or formula as the primary nutrition source. Start with 1-2 tablespoons of single-ingredient purees (iron-fortified cereal, pureed vegetables, fruits, or meats) once or twice daily. By 8-9 months, increase to 3 meals per day with varied textures. By 12 months, most calories should come from solid foods, with breast milk or formula as a supplement.

Why It Works

At 6 months, babies' iron stores from birth begin to deplete, and breast milk alone no longer meets all nutritional needs. The AAP and WHO both recommend introducing complementary foods at this age. Starting with small amounts allows the digestive system to adapt and helps identify any food allergies or intolerances one ingredient at a time.

Tips

• Iron-rich foods first — iron-fortified infant cereal, pureed meats, or mashed beans are recommended as early foods because iron needs increase at 6 months
• Introduce common allergens (peanut, egg, dairy) early and regularly — the AAP now recommends this approach to reduce allergy risk
• Wait 2-3 days between new single-ingredient foods to watch for allergic reactions
• Avoid honey until 12 months due to botulism risk
• Let the baby set the pace — never force food into the mouth or insist on finishing a portion
• Expect mess and food refusal; it can take 10-15 exposures before a baby accepts a new food