#asktheexpert My daughter is 6 months old and what kind of food was given to her since 6 months

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Accepted Answer

At 6 months old, your baby can start exploring solid foods alongside breast milk or formula. Here's a guide on introducing solid foods to your 6-month-old:

**1. Introduction to Solids:

Single-Grain Cereals: Start with iron-fortified single-grain cereals like rice or oatmeal. Mix with breast milk or formula to a smooth consistency.

Pureed Fruits: Apples, bananas, pears, and peaches are good first fruits. Cook and puree or mash them until smooth.

Pureed Vegetables: Try carrots, sweet potatoes, peas, and squash. Cook until soft, then puree or mash.

Mashed Foods: Soft foods like avocado can be mashed and offered as a finger food.

**2. Texture and Consistency:

Smooth Purees: Start with smooth purees and gradually introduce thicker textures as your baby gets used to eating solids.

Avoid Choking Hazards: Ensure that food is well-cooked and finely pureed or mashed to prevent choking.

**3. Allergy Considerations:

Introduce New Foods Slowly: Introduce one new food at a time and wait a few days before adding another. This helps identify any potential allergies.

Common Allergens: Be cautious with foods like eggs, nuts, and fish. Consult your pediatrician about introducing these foods.

**4. Meal Frequency:

One Meal a Day: Start with one solid meal per day and gradually increase to two or three meals as your baby gets accustomed to solids.

**5. Hygiene and Safety:

Proper Storage: Ensure that all foods are prepared and stored hygienically to prevent contamination.

Monitor Reactions: Watch for any signs of allergies or intolerances, such as rash or upset stomach.

Example Daily Meal Plan:

Breakfast: Rice cereal mixed with breast milk or formula.

Lunch: Pureed sweet potatoes or peas.

Snack: Mashed banana or apple puree.

Dinner: Pureed carrots or squash.

Always consult your pediatrician before introducing new foods to ensure they are appropriate for your baby's developmental stage and health.