As babies grow stronger and more active, their level of activity also increases, signaling the appropriate time to introduce complementary foods has quietly arrived. Many new parents inevitably have questions when facing complementary feeding for the first time: What should be the baby’s first taste of complementary food? How to scientifically start the journey of complementary feeding?
At around five months old, babies naturally show an interest in food, liking to explore the taste by putting nearby items into their mouths. Therefore, 4 to 6 months is the ideal time to introduce complementary foods. It is important to spark the baby’s curiosity and love for food, rather than force-feeding.
The introduction of complementary foods is not only to meet the increasing nutritional needs of babies, supplement the limitations of exclusive breastfeeding or formula milk, but also to promote the maturation of the baby’s digestive system, exercise their chewing and swallowing abilities, and lay a solid foundation for diversified future diets.
When it comes to the first attempt at complementary feedingesidencec, rice cereal is often the recommended first choice. It is rich in essential nutrients for the baby’s growth, such as calcium, iron, zinc, and is easily accepted by the baby’s delicate stomach. Rice cereal can be given before daytime breastfeeding, three times a day initially, one spoonful each time, mixed with warm water. If the baby resists initially, a bottle can be used for transition, then continue breastfeeding.
Once the baby is accustomed to rice cereal, mothers can gradually mix in a small amount of vegetable puree or fruit puree (note that this should be done after the baby reaches six months), to enrich the taste and nutrition.
Patience is key during the complementary feeding process. Each new food introduced should be given enough time for the baby to adapt. After observing no adverse reactions, gradually increase to 2-3 times a day, and, ensuring safety, gradually try more types of food. Although the path of introducing complementary foods is meticulous, it is also a warm journey of growth for every mother and baby. May each mother and baby enjoy exploring together and have patience during this time.
