#asktheexpert pls suggest food chart for 6month old baby. as already started to give ragi, rice and carrot, apple.

Question

#asktheexpert  pls suggest food chart for 6month old baby. as already started to give ragi, rice and carrot, apple.

Accepted Answer

At 6 months old, babies can start exploring solid foods alongside breast milk or formula. When introducing Indian food to a 6-month-old baby, it's essential to choose soft, easily digestible, and nutritious options. Here are some suitable Indian foods for a 6-month-old baby:

1. **Rice Cereal:** Cooked rice cereal or rice porridge (rice cooked with water to a thin consistency) is a gentle first food that's easy to digest and can be mixed with breast milk or formula.

2. **Dal Water:** Dal water (lentil soup) made from well-cooked and mashed lentils diluted with water is rich in protein and provides essential nutrients for growing babies.

3. **Mashed Vegetables:** Cooked and mashed vegetables such as carrots, sweet potatoes, peas, pumpkin, or spinach are nutritious options packed with vitamins and minerals.

4. **Khichdi:** Plain khichdi made from rice and well-cooked lentils or moong dal provides a balanced meal with carbohydrates, protein, and fiber. Start with a simple, mild version without spices.

5. **Fruit Purees:** Pureed fruits like banana, apple, pear, or mashed ripe papaya are naturally sweet and provide essential vitamins and minerals.

6. **Suji Kheer:** Suji (semolina) kheer cooked with milk and a bit of jaggery (unrefined cane sugar) for sweetness is a creamy and nutritious option for babies.

7. **Idli:** Soft and fluffy idlis made from fermented rice and lentil batter are easily digestible and can be cut into small, bite-sized pieces for your baby to grasp and chew.

8. **Vegetable Soup:** Pureed vegetable soups made from a variety of vegetables cooked until soft and blended into a smooth consistency provide a nutrient-rich option for your baby.

9. **Homemade Yogurt:** Plain, unsweetened homemade yogurt is a good source of calcium and probiotics. Offer it as is or mix it with mashed fruits for added flavor.

10. **Moong Dal Soup:** Moong dal soup made from well-cooked and mashed moong dal diluted with water provides protein and essential nutrients for your baby's growth and development.

When introducing new foods, start with small amounts and watch for any signs of allergies or intolerance. Gradually introduce a variety of foods, textures, and flavors to help your baby develop a diverse palate and healthy eating habits. Additionally, always consult with your pediatrician before introducing solid foods to your baby.