Introducing Solids: A Guide to Starting Strong at 6 Months
by Nightingale Nursing
When babies approach the half-year mark, their feeding needs begin to shift. While human milk or formula remains essential, this is also the time when solids start to play a supporting role. Known as “complementary feeding,” this phase helps meet nutritional needs that milk alone may no longer cover—particularly iron and zinc.
What Is Complementary Feeding?
Complementary foods are introduced in addition to breast milk or formula—not in place of it. Solids provide extra energy and nutrients as babies grow, while milk continues to be their main source of nutrition for most of the first year.
Timing: Around 6 Months Is Ideal
Major health authorities, including the American Academy of Pediatrics, recommend starting solids at about 6 months of age. The exact timing can vary slightly depending on the baby’s readiness—but introducing solids too early is NOT recommended.
How to Know If Baby Is Ready
Look for these developmental signals:
- Sits upright with minimal support
- Good head and neck control
- Reaches for food and shows interest in eating
- Loss of tongue-thrust reflex
- Has approximately doubled birth weight
Nutrient Priorities
Iron and zinc become more important around 6 months. Suggested starter foods include:
- Puréed meats and poultry
- Lentils and beans
- Iron-fortified cereals (rotated—limit rice cereal due to arsenic concerns)
- Soft egg, tofu, and other nutrient-rich options
Want more details about…..
- Allergenic Foods
- Foods to avoid
- Baby led weaning vs Parent led weaning
- Introducing textures
- Safety for solid foods
- And when it’s time to wean from breastfeeding….
Read the full blog at Nightingale Nursing!
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