#asktheexpert how much should a 10 month baby eat and what should he eat

Question

Accepted Answer

At 10 months old, your baby should be eating a variety of foods alongside breast milk or formula. This is the time to offer a range of solids to ensure your baby gets a balanced diet. Here's a general guideline:

Amount of Food:

Breast Milk or Formula: Continue breastfeeding or offering formula, typically around 16-24 ounces per day. Some babies may naturally start to drink less milk as they eat more solids.

Solid Foods: Your baby should be eating about 3 meals a day with 1-2 snacks in between. Start with small portions, around 2-4 tablespoons per meal, and gradually increase the quantity as they develop more interest in food.

What Should He Eat:

At 10 months, babies are ready for a wider range of foods, including:

1. Fruits and Vegetables:

Soft fruits like banana, pear, apple, and avocado.

Cooked vegetables like carrots, peas, sweet potato, and pumpkin.

You can serve these as mashed, pureed, or in small soft pieces.

2. Grains:

Oatmeal, porridge, or soft cooked rice.

Whole grain cereals or bread cut into small pieces.

3. Proteins:

Mashed or finely chopped cooked meats like chicken, turkey, or fish.

Soft scrambled eggs or omelets.

Tofu or well-cooked beans (like lentils or chickpeas).

4. Dairy:

Full-fat yogurt (unsweetened).

Small pieces of cheese (such as mild cheddar or mozzarella).

5. Finger Foods:

Small pieces of soft fruits, steamed vegetables, cheese, or whole-grain crackers are great for helping your baby practice self-feeding.

Additional Tips:

Avoid Choking Hazards: Make sure foods are cut into small, manageable pieces and cooked until soft. Avoid hard or round foods like nuts, grapes, or whole grapes, which could pose a choking risk.

Watch for Allergies: If introducing new foods, wait 3-4 days before adding another new item to monitor for any allergic reactions.

Every baby is different, so be guided by their appetite and hunger cues. If your baby is not eating much at some meals but is eating well at others, that's completely normal at this stage. Always consult with your pediatrician if you have concerns about your baby’s eating habits or growth.