Introducing solids to your baby is an exciting milestone in their life. It’s a time when they transition from solely relying on breastmilk or formula to eating real food. But with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to decide what the best first food for your baby is. The good news is that the best first food for your baby is one that is nutritious, easy to digest, and safe. In this guide, we will explore some of the best first foods for your baby and provide tips on how to introduce them. From fruits and vegetables to grains and proteins, we’ll cover it all so you can make an informed decision about what to feed your little one.
Understanding the Importance of Introducing Solids
Why It’s Necessary to Introduce Solids
- Nutritional needs:
- Babies require additional nutrients for proper growth and development beyond breastmilk or formula.
- Introducing solids provides a diverse range of essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber that are not readily available in liquid feedings.
- Supports oral motor development:
- Chewing and swallowing solid foods help strengthen the muscles in the mouth and throat, preparing the baby for future food textures and speech development.
- This also promotes healthy weight gain and prevents potential feeding difficulties later in life.
- Encourages self-feeding and independence:
- Introducing solids allows the baby to actively participate in mealtime, developing fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination.
- This helps build confidence and self-esteem, as well as fostering a positive relationship with food and mealtime.
- Improves digestive system:
- Solid foods introduce new textures and flavors that help the digestive system mature and become more efficient.
- Introducing solids also helps prevent constipation and other digestive issues that can arise from a diet consisting solely of breastmilk or formula.
- Prepares for eventual transition to table foods:
- Gradually introducing solids helps the baby adjust to different tastes and textures, making the eventual transition to family meals smoother and less stressful.
- This also allows for the introduction of family foods from an early age, encouraging healthy eating habits and family bonding over meals.
When to Introduce Solids
When it comes to introducing solids to your baby, timing is key. While the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends waiting until your baby is around 6 months old, there are several factors to consider when making this decision. Here are some things to keep in mind:
Signs Your Baby is Ready for Solids
While the age of 6 months is a general guideline, there are certain signs that your baby may be ready for solids. These include:
- Being able to sit up unassisted
- Showing an interest in food, such as reaching for or trying to grab food from others
- Being able to swallow and digest food without difficulty
- Demonstrating good head control when sitting up
Developmental Readiness
Introducing solids too early can lead to overfeeding, which can increase the risk of obesity later in life. On the other hand, waiting too long to introduce solids can make the transition more difficult for your baby. It’s important to consider your baby’s developmental readiness when making the decision to introduce solids.
Family Preferences and Cultural Practices
Your family’s preferences and cultural practices may also play a role in when you decide to introduce solids to your baby. For example, some cultures may introduce solids earlier or later than the general guideline of 6 months. It’s important to consider these factors and make the decision that is best for your family.
In summary, while the age of 6 months is a general guideline for introducing solids, it’s important to consider your baby’s developmental readiness, as well as any family preferences or cultural practices.
The Benefits of Introducing Solids
Introducing solids to your baby is an important milestone in their development, and there are numerous benefits to doing so. Some of the key benefits of introducing solids to your baby include:
- Supporting Development: Introducing solids helps support your baby’s development in a number of ways. For example, it can help them develop new tastes and preferences, support their growth and development, and help them learn how to chew and swallow.
- Enhancing Nutrition: Introducing solids can also help enhance your baby’s nutrition. While breastmilk or formula provides all the necessary nutrients for the first few months of life, introducing solids can help provide a wider range of nutrients and support your baby’s overall health and growth.
- Encouraging Socialization: Introducing solids can also be a great opportunity for your baby to socialize and interact with others. Eating is a social activity, and introducing solids can help your baby learn how to interact with others during mealtime.
- Building Independence: Introducing solids can also help your baby build their independence. As they learn how to eat solid foods, they will also learn how to feed themselves and become more self-sufficient.
Overall, introducing solids is an important milestone in your baby’s development, and it offers a wide range of benefits that can support their growth and development in many different ways.
The Best First Foods for Your Baby
Pureed Fruits and Vegetables
When it comes to introducing solids to your baby, pureed fruits and vegetables are a great place to start. These foods are packed with essential nutrients, such as vitamins, minerals, and fiber, that are important for your baby’s growth and development.
Pureed fruits and vegetables are also easy to digest, making them a good option for babies who are just starting to eat solids. They can be pureed to a smooth consistency, which makes them easy for babies to swallow and digest.
Some great options for pureed fruits and vegetables include:
- Sweet potatoes: Sweet potatoes are a great source of vitamin A, which is important for your baby’s vision and immune system. They are also a good source of fiber, which can help with digestion.
- Peas: Peas are a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals, including iron and calcium. They are also a good source of fiber, which can help with digestion.
- Avocado: Avocado is a great source of healthy fats, which are important for your baby’s brain development. It is also a good source of vitamins and minerals, including potassium and vitamin C.
- Apples: Apples are a good source of fiber, which can help with digestion. They are also a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C and potassium.
When pureeing fruits and vegetables for your baby, it’s important to remove any skin or seeds, as these can be difficult to digest. You should also avoid adding any sugar or salt to the purees, as these can be harmful to your baby’s health.
In addition to pureed fruits and vegetables, you can also introduce other types of foods, such as lean meats, whole grains, and dairy products. It’s important to introduce a variety of foods to ensure that your baby gets all the nutrients they need for optimal growth and development.
Whole Foods to Avoid
When introducing solids to your baby, it’s important to be mindful of certain whole foods that should be avoided. These foods may pose a choking hazard or may not provide the necessary nutrients for your baby’s growth and development. Here are some whole foods to avoid:
- Honey: Honey should be avoided as a first food because it may contain harmful bacteria that can cause infant botulism. It’s best to wait until your baby is at least 12 months old before introducing honey.
- Nuts and seeds: Nuts and seeds, including peanuts, should be avoided as first foods because they can be a choking hazard. They should also be avoided if your baby has a history of food allergies or if you have a family history of food allergies.
- Whole eggs: Whole eggs should be avoided as a first food because they can also be a choking hazard. It’s best to wait until your baby is at least 6 months old before introducing eggs, and even then, it’s best to start with scrambled or puréed eggs rather than whole eggs.
- Salt: Salt should be avoided as a first food because it’s not a necessary nutrient for your baby’s growth and development. It’s also important to be mindful of the amount of salt in the other foods you’re feeding your baby.
- Raw or undercooked meat, fish, or poultry: Raw or undercooked meat, fish, or poultry should be avoided as a first food because they can contain harmful bacteria that can cause foodborne illness. It’s best to cook these foods thoroughly before feeding them to your baby.
- Whole fruit: Whole fruit should be avoided as a first food because it can be a choking hazard. It’s best to wait until your baby is at least 6 months old before introducing fruit, and even then, it’s best to start with puréed fruit rather than whole fruit.
By avoiding these whole foods, you can help ensure that your baby is getting the necessary nutrients for their growth and development while also minimizing the risk of choking or foodborne illness.
Ideas for Combining Foods
When introducing solids to your baby, it’s important to start with a single food at a time to monitor for any potential allergies or intolerances. However, as your baby becomes more accustomed to eating solid foods, you can start to introduce combinations of foods that offer a variety of textures, flavors, and nutrients. Here are some ideas for combining foods:
- Pair fruits and vegetables: Fruits and vegetables can be combined in a variety of ways to create a well-rounded meal. For example, you can mix cooked carrots with steamed broccoli and a little bit of breast milk or water to create a purée that’s rich in vitamins and minerals.
- Mix grains and protein: Grains like rice and quinoa can be combined with protein sources like beans, lentils, or tofu to create a hearty and nutritious meal. You can also add a bit of grated cheese or yogurt to the mixture to add extra flavor and calcium.
- Incorporate healthy fats: Healthy fats like avocado or olive oil can be added to purées or mashed vegetables to add flavor and nutrients. You can also add a bit of mashed sweet potato or squash to your baby’s meal to add extra fiber and beta-carotene.
- Experiment with textures: As your baby becomes more accustomed to eating solids, you can start to introduce different textures. You can mix cooked vegetables with some soft, cooked pasta or mashed potatoes to create a dish with a variety of textures.
Remember to always check with your pediatrician before introducing new foods to your baby, and to monitor for any signs of allergies or intolerances.
Preparing and Feeding Your Baby
Safety Tips for Preparing and Feeding Your Baby
When it comes to preparing and feeding your baby their first solid foods, safety should always be your top priority. Here are some essential safety tips to keep in mind:
- Wash your hands thoroughly before preparing and feeding your baby. This will help prevent the spread of illness and bacteria.
- Cook all fruits and vegetables before feeding them to your baby. Raw fruits and vegetables can be difficult to digest and may pose a choking hazard.
- Avoid feeding your baby any foods that are high in sugar, salt, or fat. These can be harmful to your baby’s health and development.
- Always check the expiration dates on any packaged or processed foods before feeding them to your baby. Expired foods can be dangerous and may contain harmful bacteria.
- Be aware of any food allergies or intolerances that your baby may have, and avoid feeding them any foods that could cause an allergic reaction.
- Always monitor your baby while they are eating to ensure that they are swallowing properly and not choking. If you notice any signs of choking, such as difficulty breathing or blue lips, call emergency services immediately.
- Never give your baby honey or any other foods that contain high levels of sugar, as this can lead to a serious condition called infant botulism.
- Always prepare and store food in a clean and sanitary environment to prevent the spread of illness and bacteria.
By following these safety tips, you can help ensure that your baby’s first experiences with solid foods are safe and enjoyable.
How to Introduce Solids to Your Baby
Introducing solids to your baby is an exciting milestone, but it’s essential to do it right to ensure a smooth transition from breastmilk or formula. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to introduce solids to your baby:
1. Start with single-ingredient purees
Begin by introducing single-ingredient purees made from fruits, vegetables, and grains. These purees are simple and easy for your baby to digest. Start with the following foods:
- Fruits: pureed bananas, peaches, and mashed avocado
- Vegetables: pureed sweet potatoes, carrots, and squash
- Grains: cooked rice cereal or barley cereal
2. Introduce a new food every 3-5 days
Introduce a new food every 3-5 days to help your baby’s digestive system get used to the new textures and flavors. If you notice any signs of a food allergy or intolerance, such as diarrhea, vomiting, or rash, stop feeding the food and consult your pediatrician before introducing another new food.
3. Start with small amounts
Start with small amounts of food and gradually increase the amount as your baby gets used to the new texture. A good rule of thumb is to start with a small spoonful and increase the amount by a spoonful each feeding until your baby is eating about 3-4 tablespoons of food at a time.
4. Offer solids with a familiar liquid
Offer solids with a familiar liquid, such as breastmilk or formula, to help your baby swallow the new food more easily. As your baby gets used to the new texture, you can gradually reduce the amount of liquid until they are eating the puree on their own.
5. Pay attention to cues
Pay attention to your baby’s cues that they are ready for solids. Signs that your baby may be ready include:
- Being able to sit up unsupported
- Showing interest in solid foods
- Being able to grasp and bring a hand to their mouth
- Having a healthy weight gain
If your baby is not showing these signs, it’s best to wait until they are ready.
Feeding Your Baby: What to Expect
Introducing solid foods to your baby is an exciting milestone in their life, and it’s essential to know what to expect during this process. Here are some key points to keep in mind when feeding your baby solid foods:
How often to feed
Your baby will need to be fed solid foods about twice a day, in addition to their regular breastmilk or formula feedings. This will help them get used to eating solid foods and will also help with their digestion.
How much to feed
When starting with solid foods, it’s best to start with a small amount, about 1-2 teaspoons, and gradually increase the amount as your baby becomes more comfortable with eating solids. It’s important to note that babies don’t need a lot of food at this stage, as they are still getting most of their nutrients from breastmilk or formula.
Signs of readiness
There are several signs that your baby is ready to start eating solid foods, including:
- Showing interest in food by reaching for it or opening their mouth when they see you eating
- Being able to swallow food without difficulty
- Having regular bowel movements
If your baby is not showing these signs, it’s best to wait a bit longer before introducing solid foods.
Choosing the right foods
When it comes to choosing the right foods for your baby, it’s important to choose ones that are safe, nutritious, and easy to digest. Some good options include:
- Iron-rich foods like lean meats, beans, and fortified cereals
- Fruits and vegetables like sweet potatoes, peas, and avocados
- Grains like oatmeal and rice
- Dairy products like yogurt and cheese
It’s also important to avoid certain foods, such as honey, eggs, and fish with high levels of mercury, until your baby is older.
Preparing the food
When preparing your baby’s food, it’s important to make sure it’s safe and easy to digest. Here are some tips for preparing your baby’s food:
- Cook the food until it’s soft and mushy
- Avoid adding salt, sugar, or other seasonings
- Chop the food into small pieces to prevent choking hazards
- Mix the food with breastmilk or formula to thin it out
By following these guidelines, you can help ensure that your baby gets the nutrients they need while enjoying the benefits of solid foods.
Transitioning to Table Foods
When to Start Transitioning
The timing of when to start transitioning your baby from breastmilk or formula to solid foods is an important consideration. It is recommended that babies begin eating solid foods around 6 months of age, when they are developmentally ready to start exploring new textures and tastes.
Here are some key factors to consider when deciding when to start transitioning your baby to solid foods:
- Age: As mentioned, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends starting solids around 6 months of age. This is because babies’ digestive systems are not fully developed until around this time, and they need the nutrients from breastmilk or formula to support their growth and development.
- Developmental Readiness: While 6 months is the general guideline, it’s important to note that every baby is different. Some babies may be ready for solids earlier or later than 6 months. Signs that your baby may be ready for solids include:
- Sitting up unassisted
- Showing interest in food (e.g. reaching for food, opening their mouth when they see food)
- Demonstrating good coordination and the ability to chew and swallow
- Family History: If there is a history of food allergies or sensitivities in your family, it’s important to introduce solids carefully and under the guidance of your pediatrician. Some babies may need to wait until 9-12 months to introduce certain foods to reduce the risk of allergies.
- Special Needs: If your baby has special needs, such as a tongue-tie or other oral motor issues, it may be necessary to work with a speech therapist or other professional to ensure that your baby is able to safely and effectively transition to solid foods.
It’s important to remember that the timing of when to start transitioning your baby to solid foods is a personal decision that should be made in consultation with your pediatrician. They can help you determine the best approach based on your baby’s individual needs and developmental readiness.
Tips for Transitioning to Table Foods
Introducing solid foods to your baby is an exciting milestone in their life, but it can also be overwhelming for parents. To make the transition from breastmilk or formula to table foods as smooth as possible, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Start with a single-ingredient puree: When introducing your baby to solid foods, it’s best to start with a single-ingredient puree. This will allow your baby to get used to the taste and texture of the food without being overwhelmed by multiple flavors and textures. Good options for first purees include sweet potatoes, squash, and avocado.
- Introduce new foods one at a time: To avoid any potential allergies or sensitivities, it’s important to introduce new foods one at a time. Start with a new food every three to five days, and watch for any signs of an allergic reaction, such as hives, itching, or difficulty breathing.
- Use a baby-led approach: Once your baby is around 6 months old, you can start using a baby-led approach to introducing solids. This means giving your baby a piece of food to hold and eat on their own, rather than spoon-feeding them purees. This approach helps your baby develop hand-eye coordination and self-feeding skills.
- Be patient: Introducing solids to your baby is a process, and it may take some time for them to get used to the new textures and flavors. Be patient and allow your baby to take their time getting used to the new foods.
- Consult with your pediatrician: It’s always a good idea to consult with your pediatrician before introducing solids to your baby. They can provide guidance on the best foods to introduce, when to start, and any other concerns you may have.
Introducing Table Foods to Your Baby
Introducing table foods to your baby is an exciting milestone in their life, as it marks the beginning of a new phase of eating and nutrition. This is an important stage, as it sets the foundation for your baby’s dietary habits and preferences for years to come. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind when introducing table foods to your baby:
When to Introduce Table Foods
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends starting solid foods at around 6 months of age, but it’s important to discuss this with your pediatrician to determine the best time for your baby. Your baby may be ready for table foods if they are showing signs of readiness, such as:
- Holding their head up while sitting
- Moving food from side to side in their mouth
- Weighing more than twice their birth weight
When selecting table foods for your baby, it’s important to choose foods that are safe, nutritious, and easy to swallow. Some good options include:
- Pureed fruits and vegetables
- Whole grain cereals
- Mashed potatoes
- Soft cooked meats
- Plain yogurt
It’s also important to avoid foods that are choking hazards, such as nuts, seeds, popcorn, and whole grapes.
Preparing Table Foods
To prepare table foods for your baby, you’ll want to make sure they are soft and easily mashed or pureed. This may involve cooking them until they are very soft, or pureeing them in a blender or food processor. It’s also important to avoid adding any salt, sugar, or other additives to your baby’s food.
Introducing Table Foods to Your Baby
When introducing table foods to your baby, it’s important to start with small amounts and monitor their reactions. You can start by offering a small spoonful of food, and gradually increasing the amount as your baby becomes more comfortable with eating solids. It’s also a good idea to offer table foods alongside breastmilk or formula, as this will help your baby transition to solid foods more easily.
Remember, the introduction of table foods is a gradual process, and it’s important to be patient and give your baby time to adjust to this new stage of eating. By following these guidelines and working closely with your pediatrician, you can help ensure that your baby gets the nutrients they need to grow and thrive.
What to Expect When Transitioning to Table Foods
As your baby grows and develops, they will eventually reach the stage where they are ready to transition from pureed baby food to table foods. This can be an exciting time for both you and your baby, as it marks a significant milestone in their development. However, it’s important to approach this transition with care and consideration to ensure that your baby’s nutritional needs are met and that they are safe when eating solid foods.
Here are some things to expect when transitioning to table foods:
Developing Fine Motor Skills
One of the key benefits of transitioning to table foods is that it helps your baby develop their fine motor skills. Eating with utensils requires precise movements of the fingers, hands, and wrists, which can help build strength and coordination in these areas. Encouraging your baby to use utensils such as a spoon or fork can also help them learn to feed themselves, which is an important skill for independent eating.
Encouraging Self-Feeding
Another benefit of transitioning to table foods is that it encourages self-feeding. When your baby is fed pureed baby food by an adult, they may not develop the same level of awareness and control over their eating habits. By encouraging them to feed themselves with utensils, you can help them develop a sense of independence and autonomy when it comes to mealtime.
Exploring New Textures and Flavors
As your baby transitions to table foods, they will have the opportunity to explore a wider range of textures and flavors. While pureed baby foods are often smooth and pureed, table foods can be more varied in terms of their texture and consistency. This can be an exciting time for your baby, as they learn to navigate different tastes and textures.
Nutritional Considerations
When transitioning to table foods, it’s important to consider your baby’s nutritional needs. While table foods can be a great source of nutrients, they may not provide all of the necessary vitamins and minerals that your baby needs. It’s important to continue to offer a variety of fruits, vegetables, and other nutritious foods to ensure that your baby is getting a balanced diet.
In summary, transitioning to table foods is an exciting time for both you and your baby. It can help your baby develop fine motor skills, encourage self-feeding, and explore new textures and flavors. However, it’s important to approach this transition with care and consideration, and to continue to prioritize your baby’s nutritional needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the right time to start introducing solids to my baby?
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends starting solids at around 6 months of age, when your baby is developmentally ready and has demonstrated the following milestones:
- Can sit upright with support
- Shows interest in food by reaching, grasping, and mouthng
- Has some control over head and neck movements
What order should I introduce different foods to my baby?
It’s important to introduce a variety of foods to your baby in order to ensure they get all the necessary nutrients. The general recommendation is to start with iron-rich foods like meat, poultry, and fish, then introduce fruits and vegetables, and finally, grains and cereals.
How much solid food should I give my baby at each meal?
Start with small amounts of solid food, about 1-2 teaspoons, and gradually increase the amount as your baby becomes more accustomed to eating solids. Aim for 2-3 times a day, and make sure to offer a variety of foods to ensure your baby is getting all the necessary nutrients.
What if my baby doesn’t seem interested in solid foods?
Some babies may be slow to adopt to solid foods, but it’s important to continue offering them and not to worry too much. It’s normal for babies to be more interested in solids as they get older and start to develop their sense of taste and smell. Offer a variety of foods and be patient, as it may take some time for your baby to adjust to eating solids.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Introducing solids to your baby is an exciting milestone, but it can also be a nerve-wracking experience for many parents. To ensure a smooth transition and avoid any potential problems, it’s important to be aware of some common mistakes that should be avoided when introducing table foods to your baby.
One of the most common mistakes is to introduce too many new foods at once. This can overwhelm your baby’s taste buds and make them less likely to accept new foods in the future. It’s best to introduce one new food at a time, so your baby can get used to the taste and texture before trying something new.
Another mistake is to give your baby foods that are too soft or too mushy. While pureed foods are great for babies who are just starting out, it’s important to gradually introduce more textured foods as your baby grows and develops new eating skills. Starting with soft, ripe fruits and vegetables and gradually working up to firmer foods like carrots and potatoes can help your baby develop the necessary chewing and swallowing skills.
Additionally, it’s important to avoid giving your baby foods that are high in sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats. These can lead to obesity, tooth decay, and other health problems later in life. Instead, focus on giving your baby nutrient-dense foods that are rich in vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats.
Finally, it’s important to be mindful of potential food allergies and intolerances. If you have a family history of food allergies, it’s especially important to introduce new foods slowly and watch for any signs of an allergic reaction. It’s also a good idea to consult with your pediatrician before introducing any new foods to your baby’s diet.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can help ensure a smooth and successful transition to table foods for your baby.
Additional Resources for Introducing Solids
There are numerous resources available to guide parents in introducing solids to their baby. These resources include books, websites, and even classes that provide valuable information on the best first foods for your baby. Some popular resources include:
- The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) provides guidelines for introducing solids to your baby, including recommendations on when to start and what foods to offer.
- The Baby-Led Weaning website offers information on the baby-led weaning approach, which emphasizes letting the baby self-feed rather than spoon-feeding.
- The La Leche League provides information on breastfeeding and introducing solids, including tips on how to combine breastfeeding and solid feeding.
- Books such as “Baby-Led Weaning: The Surprisingly Easy Way to Introduce Solid Foods—and Help Your Baby to Eat Well, Sleep Well, and Grow Strong” by Gill Rapley and “Healthy Eating for a Healthy Life: Introducing Solid Foods to Your Baby” by Dr. Sears offer comprehensive information on introducing solids to your baby.
- Classes offered by lactation consultants or pediatricians can provide hands-on guidance and support for parents as they introduce solids to their baby.
By utilizing these resources, parents can feel confident in their ability to introduce solids to their baby in a safe and healthy manner.
FAQs
1. What should be my baby’s first food?
When it comes to introducing solids to your baby, the best first food is usually a single-ingredient puree made from a fruit or vegetable that is easy to digest, such as pureed peaches, sweet potatoes, or avocados. It’s important to start with a simple, pureed food that is easy for your baby to swallow and digest.
2. When is the best time to start introducing solids to my baby?
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends starting solids at around 6 months of age, when your baby is developmentally ready and has the ability to swallow and digest solid foods. However, it’s important to follow your pediatrician’s guidance and start introducing solids when they recommend it.
3. How much solid food should I give my baby at a time?
Start with a small amount of pureed food, about 1-2 teaspoons, and gradually increase the amount as your baby becomes more accustomed to eating solids. Aim for 1-2 meals of solid food per day, in addition to breastmilk or formula.
4. Can I give my baby foods that are different from the recommended first foods?
Yes, you can give your baby a variety of different foods as long as they are appropriate for their age and stage of development. However, it’s important to start with simple, pureed foods and gradually introduce more complex textures and flavors as your baby becomes more experienced with eating solids.
5. How do I prepare pureed food for my baby?
To prepare pureed food, simply chop the food into small pieces and steam it until it is soft. Then, blend the food with a little bit of water or breastmilk until it reaches a smooth consistency. You can also puree cooked vegetables, such as carrots or sweet potatoes, or mix in some breastmilk or formula to make a smooth puree.
6. What order should I introduce different foods to my baby?
There is no strict order in which you must introduce different foods to your baby. However, it’s generally recommended to start with fruits and vegetables before introducing other foods, such as grains and proteins. This is because fruits and vegetables are typically easier for babies to digest and are less likely to cause allergies.
7. How often should I introduce new foods to my baby?
It’s generally recommended to introduce new foods to your baby one at a time, every 3-5 days, to monitor for any signs of an allergic reaction. This is known as the “one-food-at-a-time” approach. If your baby tolerates a new food well, you can introduce another new food after 3-5 days. If your baby shows signs of an allergic reaction, such as vomiting or diarrhea, stop feeding them the new food and consult your pediatrician.
