🥄 First Foods to Introduce at 6 Months

At around 6 months, babies are usually ready to start solid foods alongside breast milk or formula. Introducing the right first foods helps meet nutritional needs, supports growth, and develops taste preferences.

✅ Signs Your Baby is Ready

• 🪑 Can sit upright with minimal support.
• 👄 Shows interest in food and opens mouth for spoon.
• 🤲 Can move food from front to back of mouth and swallow.
• 🍼 Less tongue-thrust reflex, allowing solid foods to stay in mouth.

🌾 Best First Foods

• 🍌 Mashed bananas – soft, sweet, and easy to digest.
• 🥔 Pureed sweet potatoes – rich in vitamins and gentle on the tummy.
• 🥕 Steamed and mashed carrots – high in fiber and nutrients.
• 🍎 Applesauce – mild flavor, helps with digestion.
• 🥛 Iron-fortified single-grain cereals – essential for growth.
• 🥑 Mashed avocado – healthy fats for brain development.

🧴 Feeding Tips

• 🥄 Start with small amounts (1–2 teaspoons) and gradually increase.
• 🕰️ Offer one new food at a time for 3–5 days to watch for allergies.
• 💧 Ensure food is soft, pureed, or mashed for safe swallowing.
• 🧴 Avoid added sugar, salt, honey, and choking hazards.
• 🤲 Encourage self-feeding as your baby grows for motor skill development.

🥗 Nutritional Benefits

• 🧠 Supports brain and cognitive development with healthy fats.
• 💪 Provides iron, vitamins, and minerals for growth.
• 🛡️ Boosts immunity and supports digestive health.

⚠️ Disclaimer

This article provides general guidance on introducing solids to babies. Always consult your pediatrician before starting solids to ensure safety and nutritional needs are met.

🌟 Conclusion

Introducing solid foods at 6 months is an exciting milestone. By offering nutritious, safe first foods and following feeding guidelines, parents can support healthy growth, development, and lifelong healthy eating habits.