INTRODUCING SOLIDS
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Introducing your baby to new foods can be a daunting prospect; read our guide on when to start weaning and discover the best weaning tips so that you and baby can relax and enjoy this new and exciting stage of their development.
Begin by offering new foods to baby gradually, one at a time, so his digestive system can adapt and he can get used to different tastes and textures. You will also be able to tell if he has a reaction to a particular food. You could start by offering a small amount of mashed vegetable or fruit after a milk feed or in the middle of one, so that he is not too hungry when faced with something new.
Expect mealtimes to be a little messy ! If your baby refuses food, wait and try again later. Be patient: let him touch the food if he wants to, and allow him to feed himself with his fingers when he shows an interest in doing this. Make sure he is sitting up straight and facing forward, so he can see and explore the food and is less likely to choke.
If you are able, use cooled home prepared food, as your baby will get used to eating what you eat, and you know exactly what is in it: never add salt or sugar to a baby’s food. If you would like to change the consistency, expressed breastmilk is ideal.
Once your baby is used to eating vegetables and fruit add other foods, for new flavours and textures. When introducing dairy products, such as yoghurt or fromage frais, always use the full-fat version, as babies have small tummies and need the calories and energy. Low fat foods are not suitable for babies under two.
While your baby is exploring new flavours, breastmilk is recommended as the main source of food for the first year. You may want to offer a beaker of water with meals, but avoid fruit juice, even if it is diluted, as it can damage a baby’s teeth. Full fat cow’s milk is not suitable as a drink until your baby is 12 months old (but can be used in cooking). Semi-skimmed milk is not recommended for babies under two, and skimmed milk not until the age of five.
Discover the tell-tale signs of when your baby is ready for weaning with our help and advice on introducing solids.
