Starting solids naturally for baby

Starting solids for a baby naturally involves introducing whole, unprocessed foods and following their cues. Our Munch Baby Cookbook is a great resource to have in your kitchen. Along with our many Munch Baby starting solids products.

Here are some simple steps and tips to ensure a smooth and healthy transition:

When to Start

• Age: Typically around 6 months, when the baby shows signs of readiness (sitting up with support, showing interest in food, and losing the tongue-thrust reflex).

First Foods

1. Vegetables: Start with pureed or mashed vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots, peas, and squash.
2. Fruits: Introduce pureed or mashed fruits like bananas, apples, pears, and avocados.
3. Grains: Offer single-grain cereals like rice or oatmeal mixed with breast milk or formula.
4. Protein: Later, introduce pureed meats, beans, or lentils.

Preparing Food

1. Homemade Purees: Steam or bake vegetables and fruits, then puree them with a bit of water, breast milk, or formula to reach the desired consistency.
2. Avoid Salt and Sugar: Do not add salt, sugar, or sweeteners to baby food.
3. Texture: Start with smooth purees and gradually move to thicker purees and soft, mashed foods as your baby gets used to solids.

Introducing Foods

1. One at a Time: Introduce one new food at a time and wait 3-5 days before introducing another to monitor for any allergic reactions.
2. Small Amounts: Start with small spoonfuls and gradually increase the quantity as your baby gets used to eating solids.

Feeding Tips

1. Responsive Feeding: Pay attention to your baby’s hunger and fullness cues. Don’t force them to eat if they turn their head away or close their mouth.
2. Patience: Be patient as your baby explores new tastes and textures. It’s normal for them to reject foods at first.
3. Consistency: Offer solids at regular times each day to establish a routine.

Foods to Avoid

1. Honey: Avoid honey until after the first year due to the risk of botulism.
2. Cow’s Milk: Avoid cow’s milk as a drink until after the first year; small amounts in cooking are okay.
3. Choking Hazards: Avoid small, hard foods like nuts, whole grapes, and popcorn.
4. Processed Foods: Avoid processed foods with added sugars, salt, and artificial ingredients.

Gradual Transition

1. Breast Milk or Formula: Continue breastfeeding or formula feeding while introducing solids. Solids should complement, not replace, milk feeds.
2. Variety: Offer a variety of foods to ensure your baby gets a range of nutrients and to encourage a diverse palate.

Signs of Allergies

• Watch for signs of food allergies such as rashes, hives, vomiting, diarrhea, or breathing difficulties. If any of these occur, stop the new food and consult a pediatrician.

Introducing Allergenic Foods

• Common Allergens: Introduce common allergenic foods like peanuts, eggs, dairy, and fish one at a time and in small amounts, watching for any adverse reactions. Current guidelines suggest introducing these foods early rather than delaying, to potentially reduce the risk of allergies.

Starting solids naturally emphasizes fresh, wholesome foods and a gradual, patient approach. Enjoy this exciting milestone as your baby begins their journey into the world of solid foods!