Simranjit Kaur

Mother of one, Master of Education with specialization in child-psychology. After becoming mother, I met with real me. I am now learning new concepts of parenting every fresh day and sharing my experiences with other mothers. I believe, one of the most important things that you, as a parent, should work on is - your child's psychology. Understanding the child-psychology will help you build stronger bonds and know them better.

Indisputably, there is no substitute to breastfeeding. But, there comes a time, when as a mother, you need to explore options for the first solid food for your newborns.

This exploration becomes very important because your baby is growing and his body need more nutrients. This is the time when you look out for the best possible solution to some very basic questions like when to introduce solid foods, what should be the first solid food and others. Let us try to find out answers to these queries.

When to introduce solid foods?

What I have learned from the recommendations of my pediatrician, I must tell you that there is a no definite answer to this because it varies, but it is safer to start after the age of 6 months.

The first item

Regarding the first item that should be used for feeding; discussions are ongoing. There is no clear answer because it is important to consider the child’s weight and the presence of allergies.

Some mothers believe a fruit purée is a good idea to start with. But, my pediatrician suggested me to start with yogurt and beverages containing bifidobacteria because after sweet food kids may refuse to eat vegetables.

Beverages containing bifidobacteria are more suitable for a baby’s digestive system because they are closest to the milk. In addition, yogurt is useful for children who suffer from food allergies or dysbiosis.

Introduction of complementary foods

It is good to start with vegetable puree or mash. If the child has gained gaining enough weight, porridge will be the ideal option. It is best to start with buckwheat or rice porridge, later, you can try corn.

It is best to choose vegetables – zucchini, broccoli, cabbage, carrots, or pumpkins. These foods are best if your baby suffers from constipation problems.

In the case of diarrhea, put zucchini on hold. Do keep in mind that porridge should be thick because your child is only accustomed to a liquid food.

The vegetables should be boiled until cooked. Once done, you need to sieve vegetables or use a blender to obtain a homogeneous mass.

In the case of my baby, I used to try these dishes in the morning. I started with half a teaspoon then increased the volume. I started with 50 grams of food, then added 50 gm each month. Let me tell you, do not focus on the volume, but the child’s signals.

Baby reactions after food

Watch your child carefully after the introduction of complementary foods. Should you see rashes, itching, dryness, intestinal cramps or you see your baby upset for any reason; see your pediatrician. You must avoid new foods until symptoms disappear.

By the year, you can offer dry biscuits, juices, and broth. I used to give my baby a variety of products.

Always remember that feeding rhythm is important. It is not necessary to force the child to eat if he is unhappy.