#asktheexpert what all things we can give to 6 months old babies

Question

Accepted Answer

At six months old, babies can start to enjoy a variety of solid foods in addition to breast milk or formula. Here’s a guide on what to offer:

### **1. Single-Grain Cereals:**
   - **Examples:** Rice cereal, oatmeal.
   - **Preparation:** Mix with breast milk or formula to achieve a smooth consistency.

### **2. Pureed Fruits:**
   - **Examples:** Apples, pears, bananas, avocados.
   - **Preparation:** Steam or bake and then puree to a smooth texture.

### **3. Pureed Vegetables:**
   - **Examples:** Carrots, sweet potatoes, peas, squash.
   - **Preparation:** Cook until soft and then puree.

### **4. Mashed or Pureed Protein Sources:**
   - **Examples:** Lentils, well-cooked and pureed chicken or turkey.
   - **Preparation:** Cook thoroughly and blend to a smooth consistency.

### **5. Soft Cooked and Mashed Foods:**
   - **Examples:** Mashed potatoes, well-cooked and mashed beans.
   - **Preparation:** Ensure they are soft and smooth.

### **6. Yogurt:**
   - **Examples:** Plain, unsweetened yogurt.
   - **Preparation:** Avoid added sugars and flavors.

### **7. Introduce Allergenic Foods:**
   - **Examples:** Peanuts (in the form of peanut butter), eggs, fish.
   - **Preparation:** Introduce one at a time and watch for any allergic reactions.

### **Important Tips:**
- **Introduce New Foods Slowly:** Introduce one new food at a time and wait a few days before introducing another to monitor for allergies.
- **Ensure Proper Consistency:** Start with purees and gradually move to more textured foods as your baby gets used to eating solids.
- **Avoid Honey:** Do not give honey until after the first year due to the risk of botulism.
- **Watch for Choking Hazards:** Ensure all foods are prepared to a safe texture to prevent choking.

Always consult with your pediatrician before introducing new foods, especially if there are concerns about allergies or other dietary considerations.