What is the ideal time in which a baby can start consuming solid foods?

The introduction of solid foods in a baby's diet It is one of the most important milestones during the first year of life. But what is the right time to take that step? According to the World Health Organization, The ideal time to start this transition is around six months of ageThat age, the physiological and motor development of the baby allows them to begin to eat food other than breast milk or formula, without this representing a risk to your health. Besides, Your body begins to need additional nutrients, such as ironwhich no longer obtains in sufficient quantity of the milk. The first recommendation is to speak with your child's doctor before introducing the solids in his diet (illustrative photo: Pexels) “From approximately 6 months of age, Babies need added nutrition (Iron, zinc …) that the solids offer them. It is also the right time to introduce new flavors and textures in your child's diet, ”they point out in the Kids Health portal. However, they also point out that There are some babies who are prepared to eat solids before turning 6 monthsbut you should not start until the baby is at least 4 months old. At that age, most babies gather the following characteristics that will allow them tablespoons of cereal porridge mixed with breast milk, formula or water. Do not add cereals or other foods to your baby's bottle because that could lead to excessive weight increase. Let your baby practice the behavior of eating using a teaspoon and letting them eat when you are satisfied, ”they indicate. Another recommendation is that, When your baby gets used to eating your first food, introduce other foodssuch as puree of meat, fruits, vegetables and legumes (such as beans or lentils) or yogurt. “Try a food every time and wait a few days before trying a new food to be sure that your baby does not present an allergic reaction.” The specialists recommend starting with simple and easy to digest foods, such as fruit purés (apple, banana) or cooked vegetables (carrot, pumpkin), as well as cereals fortified with iron. It is important to introduce a new food every time and wait for three and five days before offering another, to be able to identify possible allergic reactions. The texture must progressively adapt to the baby's development, starting with soft purees and moving towards stronger food as it improves its chewing capacity. During this stage, breast milk or formula must continue to be the main source of nutrition, complementing with new foods until the first year.*By Alejandra López Plazas