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Q&A: When to start solid foods?

My baby is 5 months old and I am so excited to feed her solids, I feel like I can't wait another day! Is it really a bad idea to start now?

Re: My baby is 5 months old and I am so excited to feed her solids, I feel like I can't wait another day! Is it really a bad idea to start now?

Introducing solids is a very exciting time for both you and your baby. Sometimes it is more exciting for us as parents -- we get caught up in the moment of the cute spoons and bowls and other fancy gadgets! Introducing solids can be a very pleasurable experience for a baby but it can also be quite scary, if your baby is not developmentally ready. It is very important to start feeding your baby solid foods when she is developmentally ready -- go by what she can do and not by how old she is.

Typically, your baby will start giving you signs that she is ready for solid foods around six months of age. At this time she will be able to play an active part in the feeding process. Here are some general indicators that your baby is developmentally ready to start tasting the delicious world around her:

[ ] She is sitting up (either assisted or unassisted) and holding her head up straight

[ ] She opens her mouth for a spoon and closes her lips over spoon

[ ] She is able to let you know that she is either full or hungry (turns head away from spoon if full or keeps mouth open if still hungry). This is important so that baby learns to self regulate the amount of food that she eats.

[ ] She keeps her tongue low and flat when you put the spoon in her mouth

[ ] She is showing an interest in food that others around her are eating

In addition, when a baby approaches six months of age, the enzymes in her digestive track are becoming mature enough to break down and digest solid foods. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, six months can be an important time for baby's nutritional needs. A baby may need additional iron that can be extracted from the nutrients in various solid foods, like the iron fortified cereals. Make sure to wait at least four to seven days in between new foods for signs/symptoms of any allergies. Remember, breastfeeding or formula feeding should remain the main source of nutrition throughout the majority of the first year.

Nicole Meadow, MPN, RD, nutritionist | May 11 , 2009 1:01 PM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

My son was 4 months old and consuming 120 oz. of formula a day! So the doctor told me to start him on baby food. Now he eats 3 "meals" a day, and is down to 36 oz. of formula. He is now 7 months old and weighs 20 pounds.

adamalex0508 | August 05 , 2009 12:22 PM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

My son will be tunring 4 months in 2 days. He is already 16 pounds without food. Every baby is different. Don't worry

soul12train | September 28 , 2009 11:59 AM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

my son is 4 mos and just had his check up. our dr told us we could start feeding him the rice cereal as early as 4 months if he wants it but try to get as close to 6 months as possible. right now we have him on 6oz bottles about 8 times daily with a tsp of rice cereal in 2 a day and an ounce of juice once a day to help his bowel movements. we also have to add this stuff called gripe water 1-2 times daily for his excessive gas (daddy's tummy). but we can't go to 8 oz yet cuz of gas and he won't keep it all down. maybe rice cereal at 5 months would work.

nsilverwood | October 01 , 2009 3:07 PM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

We started our breastfed daughter on rice cereal once a day at 4 1/2 months. She started sleeping 12-13 hours a night, and we did not give her any other solids until 6 months. Now she's up to rice cereal in the morning, oatmeal at night, and a vegetable in the middle of the day. She's drinking breastmilk 3-4 times a day. She's 6 1/2 months and 15 lbs 7 oz.

snygrl | October 15 , 2009 12:34 PM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

Try starting slow- a spoonful or less of cereal or puree here and there. You'll have better chances of success if your little one isn't obliged to finish a "meal" on the first try. Especially for breastfed babies, solids are for fun and experimentation before the age of one. My DS would rather play with a spoon than eat from one, so I let him have bits of roasted sweet potato from my fingers. Keep an open mind, and let your baby's interest and abilities be your guide.

Fashion Mujahid | October 25 , 2009 1:45 PM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

I would try starting right away. We're using this thing and it's been really helpful. I can even make fresh stuff for him on the go...loves it! http://www.mamaista.com/2009/09/24/your-babys-diet-will-never-be-the-same/

elsaklynch | November 02 , 2009 11:49 AM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

our daughter was showing all the "signs" of being ready exactly on her 4 month mark. we tried giving her food & she took right to it. she now has a jar mixed with cereal twice per day but she still has 4 or 5 6-8 oz bottles throughout the day. we've been lucky i guess because she hasn't had any extra trouble with gas or her bowels since introduction so hopefully it continues to go as well. good luck!

jmstone | November 11 , 2009 5:52 AM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

I found a great app on iPhone My Family Food that helps track what food groups the kids have eaten each day. I have twins and can track them both separately (since I cant remember one from the other anymore!)

linzgoldberg | November 20 , 2009 9:17 PM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

homemade baby food is best. i have instructions on how to make it at brightmama.com. I started my baby on fruits at 4 months and veggies a little later. I also introduced rice cereal at 4 months. Hope you find my website helpful!

ruthiebell | November 21 , 2009 7:51 PM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

I started around 4 to 5 months as well. For a few weeks, my daughter kept pushing the food out of her mouth due to the gag reflex which is totally normal and wouldn't swallow anything. Due to the hectic holidays, moving, and having family in town, I didn't try again until she was 7.5 months old. This time she got it on the first try! She opens her mouth for more, and has even tried mushed up avacado only a few days after eating pureed baby foods. My advice is go ahead and try, but listen to your baby, and don't rush it. If she's ready it will become apparent, and if not take a little break and it won't be long before she is.

bocabunny79 | January 11 , 2010 6:15 AM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

We started my daughter on solids right around 4 months; but she was always "advanced" if you will. Holding her bottle at a few days old; trying to sit on her own at aout 2 months; holding ehr head steady at 2 days old. She also reflux but ever since shes been on solids it went away. my baby is now 7 months and hardly even takes to the bottle; and she is almost 20 lbs.

aniyahsmommy09 | January 11 , 2010 7:34 AM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

I Started my son on baby food at about 5 months. And Rice at 3. Some babies just aren't ready for it. If they take it off the spoon well and are not thrusting their tongue it's normaly a good sign that they are ready for solids. We would slowly introduce the food with his rice. We would mix in about 2 baby spoonfulls of food. That seemed to work well. He is now 7months and and on 28oz of formualy and baby food 4 times a day! And he weighs 21lbs, big boy =D

erstrick505 | January 20 , 2010 12:58 PM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

I was the same way but i did give my baby solids not often maybe half of a jar a day then gradually increase amounts if they have a good reaction to it.

MrsWelling | February 19 , 2010 9:16 AM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

At my sons 4 month doctor appointment the doctor said we could start solids. She said when they can hold their head up well is a good time to start. To start with cereal and then go to veggies - not fruit. She also said do not put the cereal in the bottle. To feed him with a spoon. And to feed something for about a week before trying something new to watch for allergies. We started with cereal and he loves it. At about 5 1/2 months he started staring at us intensely when we were eating. And his teacher said he would get upset when she fed the other babies cereal. So now she feeds him cereal too.

ash138 | March 06 , 2010 7:47 AM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

Our pediatrician, too, told us to start our son on solid foods at 4 months. He was 18lb 11oz at his four month check up - and 'satisfies' all of the 'requirements' baby should have to begin eating solid food. We started with rice cereal, and about two weeks into this new venture have already had sweet peas, carrots, and pears. I think it's important to encourage your baby and teach them how to 'eat'. We still have three 8-oz feedings of his bottle during the day and two 4-oz bottles with his food. He LOVES his food - opens his mouth for each 'bite', 'chews'...so far it's been very successful!!!

gregalina@yahoo.com | April 06 , 2010 4:32 PM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

i started feeding my son solids a little over 5 months being that he had acid reflux as a newborn i had to wait a little bit but within 2-3 weeks i tried it again and he was fine... u will know all you can do is try if they throw up wait a couple of weeks then try again it won't hurt them. p.s i started with the rice cereal w/ a little banana in it ;)

littlefeet1 | May 20 , 2010 11:06 AM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

my doctor had me start my lil one one solids when she doubled her birth weight at 3 1/2 months

dallas110 | May 21 , 2010 11:18 AM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

We started our daughter on solids at 8 months. We waited until we knew without a doubt she was ready with a top-notch digestive system and the patience payed off! She ate like a pro from day one, has never spit anything out, has no allergies, and loves every food we give her! She started self feeding 2 weeks after we started solids.

Amylizz | May 23 , 2010 8:56 AM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

Just a quick FYI, it's actually a 'digestive tract' not a 'digestive track'.

cassiesetssail | May 26 , 2010 1:01 PM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

I was so excited to give my exclusively breastfed baby rice cereal when she turned 6 months, but each time I tried giving it to her she would eat two bites and become uninterested. This continued for the next 2.5 months even after introducing her to new (even homemade!) types of purees and jarred babyfood. I threw away dozens of barely eaten organic jars of food. After all that she just started eating food off my husband's and my plate. Anything and everything. She had teeth, could sit up, and could do all the things at this point a "solids" baby is ready to do. My advice: Wait! Your baby will let you know. Now, she's 1 and trust me, breastfeeding was much easier than making sure you have enough snacks and food packed in the diaper bag. A boob and a blanket is more convenient than bibs, spoons, and spilled snacks in the carseat:-)

rickyandmarissa | June 04 , 2010 9:45 PM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

The biggest thing to focus on is what the Aap says.. Now a days they recommend to wait until the baby is atleast 6 months to introduce solids not just bc of the digestive tract but also to prevent childhood obesity diabities. My pediatrian recommended rice cereal for month 5 then solids for month 6... Hope that helps! I did this for my son and now for my daughter...

jamandamartin | June 23 , 2010 12:16 AM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

My son was 4.5 months old when we first started solids. His first taste was broccoli because he reached for it--not a conventional choice, but he ate a tiny bud of the floret. He ate applesauce as his first real "baby" food, taking the spoon out of my hand and shoving it in his mouth by himself. Then he tried peanut butter 2 days later. Then mashed carrots and peas, mashed potatoes...everything 2 days a part, not the week or so they recommend--he's been fine. He was exclusively breast fed. We exchange one meal a day now for 2 feedings. He nurses about 6-8 times a day still. I've been very fortunate he sleeps through the night for 10 hours since he was 2mo. The real food seems to help him get through the day (I have milk production issues, and the solid foods have given him and me a break.). There's a great feeding tool you can get at Walmart that is a mesh bag with a teething ring cap. It holds fresh fruit and veggies in the bag so the baby can suck or munch on it to mush out the food--prevents choking but gives them real food instead of processed "baby food".

sublime_savvy | July 18 , 2010 9:59 PM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

I was all too excited to start feeding my son solids, in the hopes that he would sleep through the night. We started him on rice cereal at 4 months only in the evenings. Once he was six months I fed/nursed him all throughout the day.

GracieA | August 10 , 2010 9:50 PM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

another great site if you want to make your own is http://wholesomebabyfood.com. They have everything you need to know what foods you can start a certain ages and food you will never think of if giving jarred stuff. I"m on it everyday lol

Caleb201088 | August 13 , 2010 11:07 PM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

With my paediatrician's guidance, We skip the purred "baby foods" on the belief that if you have to mash them and feed them then they are not ready to eat.We also believe that force-feeding babies makes it so that they can't control the quantities of food they are consuming and can't learnt he signs of being full and stopping which causes problems later on. Because solid food in the first year is for experimenting tastes and textures and is not supposed to replace breastmilk, we start when baby shows all signs of readiness and we give them what we are eating, letting them eat whatever they want/can. Even if no food goes in, they are learning the social aspect of eating together as a family and they are tasting all different foods and spices. Soon enough they start eating everything you give them and love all types of flavours and textures...

paxye | August 26 , 2010 7:08 AM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

We started with rice cereal right before 5 months... and it took him about a month before anything actually went down the hatch. It took him a while to figure out how to actually eat, and he's gotten better & better!! His favorite foods are the Ella's Organic baby foods - the carrots, apples & parsnips.

hgravely | September 09 , 2010 9:14 PM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

i started my son @ 2 months lil by lil. His on sep 3 n is 6 1/2 months he loves happy baby n plum organics

Jazbmomo2 | September 19 , 2010 9:45 PM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

My son is 5 months old and we haven't started him yet. I'm getting excited but we're going to be traveling for a while, so I don't think it will be too practical. I think I'm going to wait until he starts mooching my food. He's been eyeing it lately and he can sit up pretty well, so I don't think it will be too much longer.

rocket2japan | October 21 , 2010 7:35 PM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

My son is almost 7 months and we started him on solids at 4 months im sure u can start now just give them the veggis first

queeneliza | November 08 , 2010 12:34 PM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

My baby is 16 weeks next week... just about 4 months. She has reflux and spits up a lot and I thought to try rice cereal with her today. The pediatrician suggested it in her bottle earlier but I don't support putting rice cereal in bottles. Anyway I tried today and i did it in the middle of her mid morning bottle... not too hungry.... but she seemed frustrated that it was not the bottle. She did lean into the spoon and put it in her mouth with her hands. She sits up almost on her own unassisted but her hands do not seem coordinated enough to play with food yet. Do you think I should wait? Or maybe keep trying once a day a little bit and stop once she is frustrated?

bino63 | December 14 , 2010 10:57 AM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

my daughter is 6 months now but i started giving her rice when she just turned about 5 months and she loves it i also mix the rice in with the baby food

ash1992 | December 21 , 2010 1:43 PM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

I may get crap from people, but I started to feed my son rice cereal the feeding before bed at 5 weeks. He was ready. He just wasn't satisfied with the breastmilk and I knew he wouldn't survive til 5 or 6 months! He right away started sleeping better and seemed satisfied. It only took him a week to learn how to not push all of the food out. At 10 weeks, he barely makes a mess and sleeps almost 5 hours at a time during the night. (which is great cause I am back to work!)

amyf07 | January 04 , 2011 11:34 AM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

i started feeding my son at 3 months...because he was so interested in food.....he even acts like he chews his food...i remeber people asking me why i was feeding him to early?...but even his peditrician said it was fine...cuz he was wanting food...he is now 4 months and loves breastfeeding and eating food...his favourite is banana`s...:)...he got weighed today and hes 20lbs ..i dont think anyone should tell anyone when there baby is ready to eat....but you can always tell when your baby is ready to eat...they seem so curious or try grabbing at what your eating.......

xotinkabella | January 18 , 2011 11:38 AM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

I started my LO (who is a preemie) on cereal when he was 4 mos! He did well with it and it helped him start sleeping through the night and also stop spitting up so much!

adelepickle | January 28 , 2011 2:17 PM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

I gave my daughter her first taste of baby food when she was 4 months old, she LOVED it! and did very well, now shes eats it like crazy shes, 6months old and 18lbs! and very healthy!

AJEN720 | January 31 , 2011 8:22 PM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

i started at 4 mos on the dot, my pediatrician gave me the go, now my son eats a small container of food mixed with rice or ioatmenal cereal every night at dinner, soon he will go 2x a day. he loves it and is getting very good at it. my son was 18 lbs at 4 months and 27ninched eating about 40-45 oz of formula a day and not sleeping thru the night, he now sleeps a bit longer and takes about 36 oz. You know ur baby if he seems interested try it hell let u know if hes not ready anf fyi if u do be prepared for some constipation for a couple weeks prune juice worked great for him. good luck

beth3p | February 02 , 2011 7:12 PM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

I started with my daughter at 3 months with like cereal but I did only little. I been giving my daughter like sugar free cookies and alot of hard food because of her teeth. She has had her teeth since 4 months. I showed her how to chew and just watch her carefully. I would try somethings then go from there! :D

lilypiearmstrong | February 06 , 2011 9:24 PM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

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Prudence78 | February 17 , 2011 5:57 AM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

after one year of exclusevily nursing. The more breastmilk the healthier the baby. Plus if you start your baby on solid foods too soon they are finding too many fat babies that have health problems later on in childhood.

jack321 | February 25 , 2011 9:46 AM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

I am horrified how this one monther had answered on here that she started her baby on cereal at 5 weeks old. OH my god! She's putting her baby's life on the line here.

jack321 | February 25 , 2011 9:51 AM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

My child was having bad acidy bowels, which i myself have had when i was a child, that was burning his lil butt when he had a bowel movement. I tried everything from topical ointments, baby oil, and even trying to wash his lil tush everytime he had a movement, but the only thing that would level out his bowels were to feed him Apple Sauce since he was 2 weeks old! He is now 4 months old and having to eat the apple sauce up to 3 times a week to keep his poor lil tush from being rashed and now he is wanting to eat anything that mommy and daddy is. I am trying to wait until what the doctor says tomorrow.

Jeankies1 | February 28 , 2011 11:35 AM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

My daughter is 21 weeks. She has been on baby food since 17 wks. As long as she is sitting up and can take from the spoon properly, she is ready. Start her on it and see how she is. I was excited when mine started. She is already 24 lbs.

MamaKay10 | March 01 , 2011 10:46 AM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

I introduced my baby to cereal at 4 months and actual babyfood at 6 months. I don't think it's a bad idea at all. You may want to try introducing one food at a time for several days just in case your baby develops an allergy, you can isolate the problem. =)

RunningMommy | March 02 , 2011 6:24 PM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

my daughter is almost 4mths. and i started rice cereal @ 3 1/2 mths old. she watched us put food to our mouths and wanted the silverwear. she only eats a few spoonfuls but i don't feed it to her every night yet. but it gives her a new experience and it gives me enough excitement feeding her even just a lil ..she eats it and won't open her lips if she is full. trying to hold off on other foods till she gets older..

CMurrell0912 | March 03 , 2011 3:42 PM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

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LauraStark | March 07 , 2011 12:07 AM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

My Doctor said it was ok to start my breastfed baby rice cereal by 4 months. I did wait to start baby food until I got the ok at his 6 month checkup, but, Dr. said babies usually show signs when they're ready. Usually they show interest in food by grabbing your food off your plate, opening and closing their mouths when you're eating, etc. A strong interest in food is a pretty good indication that your baby is ready!

stefanie071605 | March 19 , 2011 12:50 AM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

I'm pretty convinced that the person who said a year of exclusively breast feeding has never breast fed a baby with teeth. I had a friend who had that mindset... Three days after her firstborn's second tooth came in, he was on solids. Yeah, a year of exclusively breast feeding would be great, if it didn't mean having your boobs chewed on for six months.

Ladymouse | March 19 , 2011 2:52 PM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

I started Maddie on solids at 4 months. We give her half a container of veggie and half a container of fruit 2x a day. We mix the fuit and veggie with a little rice cereal to thicken it a bit. She is also taking 5-8oz bottles a day! She loves lunch and dinner time! She gets so excited when I bring out the spoon!! So far we have not found anything she is allergic to and we have tried every gerber 1 food out there! My doctor said as long as she continues to drink her formula she is good to take solids! He said to make sure she was taking 40oz formula a day on top of the food. I guess soon enough we will be lessening the formula and increasing the food! Have fun and enjoy!! Take lots of pictures of your LOs first time eating with a spoon! It is hilariously messy!

kreeves979 | April 21 , 2011 8:50 AM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

With my first 3 kids (I have had 7) I started at 4 months exactly because the doctor told me to. Then I did some research. After that I waited till at least 6 and 1/2 months but more often 7 months. My brother and his girlfriend started at 2 months because my mother insists that it will make the baby sleep through the night, but their baby still woke up at night. I tried to tell my brother's girlfriend that solids that early were not good for the baby's tummy but she doesn't want to listen to anything like that. These are the same people who got their son circumcised so he would look "normal"

autumn56789 | April 27 , 2011 11:45 AM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

honestly i dnt think its ever a bad idea to star on the solid foods early unless u think ur babii isnt quite ready but mii babii boii jus turned 4 months on sat and i started him on solid foods almost 3 weeks ago so unless u think ur babii isnt ready u can really start wen ever u want to

mouser2009 | May 17 , 2011 1:29 PM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

I have six children. The first two, I started on rice cereal at four months and worked up from there. The next two weren't ready till about five months. The last one, who is almost seven months, started about two weeks ago. For her , she had some difficulty for a day or two flattening out her tongue, but now she's doing great, oatmeal cereal in the morning w/fruit and rice cereal at night w/vegetable. It never made any difference to their sleep patterns whether they ate solids or not. I did read an article about chances of getting diabetes higher in children introduced to solids too early. As they don't need solids for their nutrition, I would suggest waiting until five or six months, unless you like spending unnecessary money! I am both bottle and breastfeeding. I hope this helps

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Q&A: When to start solid foods?

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carlino | June 06 , 2011 1:58 AM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

My baby is 5 and half months and i started giving her cereal when she was a little over 3 and half months and started jar food when she was 5 months. :) It depends on the baby my nephews i raised i started the oldest(he is 8) when he was 4 months and the youngest at(4) when he was 6 and half months hope this helps:)

saigesmommy10 | June 12 , 2011 9:38 PM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

my son started cereal around three months, jar food at four and a half months, and has been eating most of the same food we do since he was six months. buy a baby food grinder, you save a bundle on baby food.

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Q&A: When to start solid foods?

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Q&A: When to start solid foods?

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Q&A: When to start solid foods?

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Q&A: When to start solid foods?

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Q&A: When to start solid foods?

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Q&A: When to start solid foods?

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peterallen | July 18 , 2011 7:19 AM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

At least 5 months of age, preferably 6 months for most babies. This is a very important milestone, and one that should be decided upon with your baby's pediatrician or Dr. ~ do not take anyone's advice except your Dr. or pediatrician's advice based upon your own baby! Yes, you can breastfeed easily until your baby is one year old, even when your baby gets their first teeth. If your baby ever tries to bite or does bite you while breastfeeding, you simply stop breastfeeding and baby will very quickly learn that biting is not acceptable. It worked great for me and my babies did not continue to try to bite. Happy Breastfeeding and remember to wait 3 to 4 days between starting each new food to watch for any allergies.

Amie41000 | July 30 , 2011 11:14 AM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

i started my baby on solids @ 5 months too,. today she weighs 25 lb. and is @ 31 inches and she is only 9 months old. she will not take the baby food WIC offters but will jump at table food if offered. she has only two fron teeth and loves to nibble on table food. so far its spaghetti cut into tiny lil pieces.

nettatc | August 01 , 2011 11:34 AM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

My daughter will be 4 months in 11 and all she does is watch what we are eating so I started feeding her baby food and she is doing great.

ashleyqwho | August 02 , 2011 1:10 PM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

My daughter is 6 1/2 months old and 15 pounds (that's 16th percentile). She hates being spoon fed - she'll cry and cry when I put a few tiny spoonfuls of cereal or pears or sweet potato in her mouth. I have to give her the bottle for a few sucks so she'll swallow the food. Plus she only takes about 20 - 24 oz of formula per day. Any suggestions how to make eating with a spoon enjoyable? Not sure how much longer I can dance and sing to try to make it a pleasant experience for her. Help!

CowboyMick | August 09 , 2011 12:06 PM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

i might catch hell for this but like another mom on here i gave my son rice cereal at 6.5 wks in his bottle and just this past wk he is 3 mths old almost he has been opening his mouth to a spoon so i mix some rice cereal pretty thin and feed it to him and he opens his mouth to it and doesnt spit it out but he only gets it like once a day for now

luvnhd14 | August 25 , 2011 5:19 PM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

I think some of these moms need to get off their high horse for a min. In my opinion, as long as YOU are doing what YOU think is best for your baby your on the right track. It's not like these moms are making selfish decisions by saying well I started my baby early on cereal so I could have a better chance at a full nights sleep, I was tired of feeding them so often or it works best for me. No, they are saying it was the best thing to do for their baby. Just because it was best for your baby to start at a later age doesn't mean it's the answer for everyone. Personally I started my little girl at 4 1/2 months because thats what worked best for her. Babies are people, individuals if you will. Different strokes for different folks as many say. Moms give themselves a hard enough time as it is without help from others. As long as your making the best effort and doing the very best you can and making self-less decisions your doing great. Being a great mom is hard work so don't take criticism from people who don't even know your circumstances. I've come to learn that most advice I've been given isn't about them telling me I'm doing it right or wrong but really they want to talk and brag about their own children and who doen't want to talk up something, someone that they have put so much love and energy into.

JnellNiz | September 07 , 2011 5:32 PM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

Most babies are ready to begin eating solid foods as a complement to breast-feeding or formula-feeding between ages 4 months and 6 months.-Any Lab Test Now Franchise

shantelle1109 | October 08 , 2011 8:13 PM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

I just had my sons 4 mo check up and the pediatrician said that the new guidelines are 4 mo given the baby can sit atleast with little support and hold head up on his own really well, of course as long as there are not any other health issues going on.... gerber has a lot of information on starting solids as well.

belindadubry | October 11 , 2011 11:28 PM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

Childhood obesity is not based on when you start your baby on food. Of course, now you don't want to overfeed your baby. You can actually train your baby's stomach as to how much he's given during each feeding. I would personally rather feed my baby smaller portions, but more times throughout the day then getting him stuffed to where he lasts for while. My baby boy is 3 1/2 months. I gave him baby cereal a few times during the first couple months because he was waking up every 2 hours on the dot to eat. He was a big boy to begin with (9 lbs. 9 oz). He's 3 1/2 months now and I've started mixing rice cereal or oatmeal cereal with different veggies and fruits here and there, and gosh I can't seem to feed him fast enough! You know the little dipping sauce glass bowls from restaurants? I use something that size and mix about a 1/3 of fruit or veggie with it. Like I said, you don't want to overfeed them. I usually give him a 2 oz bottle with that. I breast feed him and give him 2 or 3 4 oz bottles a day. I couldnt imagine giving my almost 4 month old 6-8oz of formula each feeding! That just seems like so much. But, babies are hungry! I can't believe they switched it to where you aren't suppose to feed them baby foods until 6 months! Starting your baby on baby food early wont lead your child to be "obese." It also depends on how active your child is. Kids aren't obese these days because their parents overfeed them (well that could be the case.) It's mostly due to lack of physical activity. Give your baby some tummy time! Help them with leg exercises. You'll know when your baby's ready for the good stuff.

akhaberer | October 18 , 2011 9:02 PM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

My son is 2 1/2 months & he's 16 lbs. When he was born he was 8 lbs but a .month early. He eats so mucch its insane! Rite now he's eating 8oz every hour, &thts stretching it. Surprisingly my doctor said he's not concerned & he's not over weight. Because he's so tall his height evens out with it. But already the doctor suggested me giving him cereal, rice & oatmeal so he'll get fuller on that ¬ have to eat formula so often. Well now he got that its like milk is water! Soo frustrating but I know ill be starting food soon I'm just so scared. I mean he looks at me & practically drools at my food lol

sarahfrbs2110 | October 25 , 2011 12:01 AM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

to be honest with you we are the only country that doesnt feed our babies babyfood i did it when my daughter was 2 weeks old my mom did it when my brother was right out of the hospital and same with me

aalbiar89 | October 27 , 2011 9:51 PM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

my son was about 2 mos old when I start feeding him rice cereal. He was 6/14 when he was born. When he when for his 2mos checkup he was almost 14 pounds. It was like he was eatin hour. so I say if the baby is hungry feed them.Thats why I start giving him a little cereal in his bottle and he stopped been hungry so much.

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Q&A: When to start solid foods?

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beverlymeltista | November 08 , 2011 4:37 AM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

I started both my kids early, but my son didnt care for it. He was 9 3 when he was born and by 2 months, 16 lbs. About 3 1/2 months he wad grabbing my food off my plate, the rice cereal was too thin for him, so I mixed ther oatmeal with afruit and he did really well. He is 5 months now and eats 2-3 meals a day, oatmeal and fruit in the am, and veggies the rest. He is breastfed, so im not sure how much milk he gets, but he will nurse about 5-6 times a day, about 1-2 times ay night. He weighs almost 20 lbs now

prkhg | December 01 , 2011 11:29 AM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

The best time to start solids is when the baby is showing interest in starting. Some babies will become very interested in the food on their parents’ plates as early as four months of age. By five or six months of age, most babies will be reaching and trying to grab food that parents have on their plates. Write My Essay || Essay Help || Research Paper Writing Service UK

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Q&A: When to start solid foods?

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ethanlord | December 08 , 2011 8:42 AM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

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ianjark | December 10 , 2011 5:00 AM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

Health experts and breastfeeding experts agree that it's best to wait until your baby is around six months old before offering solid foods. The American Academy of Pediatrics, the World Health Organization, and many other health organizations recommend that babies be exclusively breastfed (no cereal, juice or other foods) for the first 6 months of life. Some doctors may recommend delaying solids for the first year if there is a family history of allergies. MyPCBackup Review Chamberlain Garage Door Opener

tanishagerstein | December 20 , 2011 3:41 AM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

at 4 months my baby girl weighted 13 lbs and the dr said to go ahead with cereal. It took a few tries for her to get the hang of it. But, now she loves it. And I have slowly introduced (shes 21 weeks now) fruits and veggies. But, she does now have a LOT of gas. Keeps her up at night. I don't know whether its the food, or all the formula now. (we make formula for the cereal, its just easier).

ClaireF26 | December 22 , 2011 10:40 AM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

Yesterday my Baby turned 5 months and as i asked the doctor about solid foods and how my baby spits them out she said it was fine, because it is better to wait until the are 6 months, that giving babies food at 4 months (like i did) was just to try and see, but that she will get intrested as she gets older. She weights 17.01 and she is 5 months

Kimbo0987 | December 29 , 2011 1:25 PM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

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shreyabhatt | December 30 , 2011 8:40 PM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

My baby hasn't started anything yet. She is almost 5 months and maybe drinks about two 6-7oz bottles a day then breast feeds morning and night. She already weighs well over 20 lbs. She is always looking at everyone eat and drink. She sits up unassisted as well. I will ask at our next appointment in a few weeks. No need to rush anything, a friend of mine started rice cereal for her 4 month old and her baby had bowel movement problems.

photogal99 | December 31 , 2011 1:07 PM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

My daughter is 7 1/2 months old.. We started fruits at 5 months.. She would not and still will not eat cereal, even if it was mixed with fruits. She used to love applesauce, bananas, sweet potatoes, and carrots.. Now she WILL NOT eat anything BUT bananas. She turns her head and cries if it is anything else. I also just started giving her the graduates lil' munchies. She loves those as well. She likes to try some of mommy's food, but will only eat bananas when it comes to baby food. Picky child, lol. (:

kadiesmom2011 | January 01 , 2012 3:58 PM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

My son is 4 months old & does everything they listed above to indicate they are ready for solid foods. My son eats 5-6 formula bottles a day (5-6oz each), a 4oz juice bottle with a half a jar of the small stage one fruits or veggies in the middle of the day. And one 6oz cereal bottle before bed (either barley or oatmeal) only about 2tbsp. of cereal in the bottle though. He sleeps all night & is very advanced in everything for his age! He weighs 18lbs (his dad & i were both large babies) & is very healthy!

MeganLeeF | January 07 , 2012 8:49 PM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

An interesting discussion. As a G'ma and Great G'ma I have a few comments. since there has been a lot of study re babies and food, Moms should probably listen to their doctors for advice -. It seem to be up in the air as to whether solid foods help a young baby sleep. My experience is that sleep patterns depend on the individual baby and the whole family's work and sleep patterns. Baby stomachs are really small - so many need frequent feedings. I noticed entries that said that babies always know best about their own needs and that if they take new food then they are obviously ready. I hope those moms remember that when her 7 year old decides to cross town on her own, or the ten year old starts smoking, or the 13 year old takes the car keys and goes on a joy ride, or the older teen ... well - we all know the possibilities. Raising children is a challenge at any age - and requires a lot of parental time and patience, even if we would like to be able to our child is advanced and is starting to eat solids earlier than most.

JaneS44 | January 10 , 2012 3:31 PM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

Just kind of responding to the person who said we are in one of the only countries that doesn't feed our babies baby food... you are in correct. As a matter of fact most countries exclusively breastfeed there children for as long as possible for economic and health reasons. That being said, I've noticed that the average recommendation is to start solids between 4 and six months. Breast milk and or formula should still remain your babies main food source until they are a year old. You should not replace the nutrients they are getting from breastmilk or formula with solid foods. My daughter's pediatrician recommended that we start her on solid food at 4 months because she could support her head well while sitting up with us supporting her. She said to feed her solids 3 to four teaspoons at a time up to 2 times a day (3 to four tablespoons equals out to about half a stage one food container). The doctor also recommended that instead of starting rice cereal first that we start with vegetables, then move to fruits and then cereal later on because she is already getting all of the carbohydrates she needs from breastmilk and formula. I have never heard of babies becoming obese because you start them on solid foods. That is just a ludicrous idea. Who is concerned about having a fat baby anyway, aren't they suppose to be?

Jamie1025Adam | January 13 , 2012 1:31 PM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

this is such a great advice " Make sure to wait at least four to seven days in between new foods for signs/symptoms of any allergies. Remember, breastfeeding or formula feeding should remain the main source of nutrition throughout the majority of the first year"...I will surely try this... background check

Apollosan | January 22 , 2012 1:44 PM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

Holy smokes. I was giving my daughter rice cereal at 2 months, and baby food at 4! Oh! And DON'T listen to the "No peanut butter until their one" bologna! As long as peanut allergies don't run in the family it is BEST to give babies peanut butter as early as sixth months! It actually prevents them from becoming allergic to it. I mean, look how many of us are allergic to peanuts, and then look how many kids are allergic ever since they said not to give it to them. They're full of crap!

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Q&A: When to start solid foods?

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aneechris88 | February 13 , 2012 11:23 PM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

this is such a great thing to know "Introducing solids can be a very pleasurable experience for a baby but it can also be quite scary, if your baby is not developmentally ready. It is very important to start feeding your baby solid foods when she is developmentally ready -- go by what she can do and not by how old she is"..more power personal injury claims

Apollosan | February 27 , 2012 3:35 PM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

a very informative advice "Typically, your baby will start giving you signs that she is ready for solid foods around six months of age. At this time she will be able to play an active part in the feeding process. Here are some general indicators that your baby is developmentally ready to start tasting the delicious world around her:"..thanks for sharing.... Tenant Screening

Apollosan | February 29 , 2012 12:53 PM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

I think that you should continue with baby formula until you talk to somebody who actually knows what he has to do or say.The best advice I can give to you is to first talk to somebody who knows all about this things.

MissyElly255 | March 27 , 2012 11:21 AM

Q&A: When to start solid foods?

Yes, the very first comment clearly explain everything starting solid food. Well, that is a topic for a research essay for young moms, I guess we should gather some cumulative information and present it as a useful tips.

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Q&A: When to start solid foods?

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Q&A: When to start solid foods?

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