When do I start introducing solid foods to my baby? She's 4 months.

Do I have to start feeding solid food to my baby at four months? We’re almost at that mark and I’m hesitant. She is breastfeeding well and on a great schedule now, but it took us a few weeks to get her there as a newborn - don’t wanna disrupt our good flow now.

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VC

Valeria posted July 9, 2019

No. Four months is early - the earliest possible age recommended to introduce solid foods. But it’s fine to stick to breastmilk for at least six months. Lots of moms prefer this - it can really boost a child’s immune system since breast milk carries antibodies from the mother that help fight colds, ear infections and other common illnesses that babies are prone to. 0 Likes

TP

Tania posted July 9, 2019

Aside from age, there are some safety factors and developmental cues to keep an eye out for when considering readiness for solid foods. This includes looking at when she can sit up on her own (or at least with support) and how well she can keep her head upright. 0 Likes

LQ

LaShonda posted July 9, 2019

You can also check out her behavior around food - see if she’s interested when you or another family member eat in front of her. Does she reach out to grab it? As she gets closer to six months or past, keep a close eye on these cues. Also, don’t worry about losing progress with your breastfeeding, because solid food can just be added to supplement (not replace) breast milk. 0 Likes

SW

Sarah posted January 8, 2022

When she has teeth and is interested in the foods you are eating. If you introduce solids before she has teeth, she had to swallow that without chewing and might have a gag reflex or cough it into her lungs and get a lung infection. My son did that with mushed carrots because we didn't know any better, and we spent $350 at the ER, even with insurance, because he couldn't breathe, and then had to spend maybe $50 in urgent care because he got a lung infection even after they dislodged it from his throat. Fun times that freaked me out majorly. 😭 0 Likes