#asktheexperts
how many times solid food we can give to baby?
which vegetables we can give?

Question

#asktheexperts 
how many times  solid food we can give to baby?
which vegetables we can give?

Accepted Answer

When introducing solid foods to your baby, it's important to do so gradually and in a way that supports their growth and development. Here’s a guideline on how often you can give solid foods and which vegetables are suitable for your baby.

Frequency of Solid Foods

Age 6-8 Months: Start with 1-2 small meals of solids per day in addition to breast milk or formula. Gradually increase to 2-3 meals as your baby gets used to solids.

Age 8-12 Months: Offer 2-3 meals of solid food and 1-2 snacks per day, continuing to provide breast milk or formula as the main source of nutrition.

After 12 Months: You can offer 3 meals and 1-2 snacks daily, with a variety of foods, including fruits, vegetables, grains, and proteins.

Suitable Vegetables for Babies

When introducing vegetables, start with single-ingredient purees and gradually mix different vegetables as your baby becomes accustomed to solids. Here are some safe vegetables to consider:

1. Root Vegetables:

Carrots: Cooked and pureed or mashed.

Sweet Potatoes: Cooked and mashed.

Pumpkin: Cooked and pureed.

2. Green Vegetables:

Peas: Cooked and mashed or pureed.

Spinach: Cooked and pureed, but ensure it is well-cooked and finely blended.

Broccoli: Cooked until soft and pureed.

3. Other Vegetables:

Zucchini: Cooked and pureed or mashed.

Cauliflower: Cooked until soft and pureed.

Avocado: Mashed; it's a nutrient-rich option.

Tips for Introducing Solids

Cook Thoroughly: Always cook vegetables until they are soft to make them easier to digest and mash or puree.

Start Slowly: Introduce one new vegetable at a time, waiting a few days before adding another to watch for any allergic reactions.

Textures: As your baby gets older and more accustomed to solids, you can gradually introduce more textured foods, such as small, soft pieces of cooked vegetables.

Diverse Diet: Aim for a variety of colors and types of vegetables to provide a range of nutrients.

Signs of Readiness for Solids

Make sure your baby is ready for solid foods by looking for signs such as:

Sitting up with minimal support.

Showing interest in food (watching you eat, reaching for food).

Losing the tongue-thrust reflex (ability to push food out with the tongue).

Conclusion

Consult your pediatrician or a pediatric nutritionist for personalized guidance on introducing solids and to ensure that your baby is getting the right nutrients. Always prioritize your baby's safety and comfort as you introduce new foods.

#asktheexperts how many times solid food we can give to baby? which vegetables we can give?