#asktheexperts
how many types of food can introduce to my baby

Question

#asktheexperts 
how many types of food can introduce to my baby

Accepted Answer

At 7 months, your baby can explore a variety of foods while still relying on breast milk or formula as the primary source of nutrition. Here’s a guide to the types of food you can introduce:

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Food Categories for a 7-Month-Old

1. Fruits

Banana

Apple (steamed and mashed)

Pear (steamed and mashed)

Avocado

Papaya

Mango (if not allergic)

2. Vegetables

Carrot (steamed and mashed)

Sweet potato (steamed and mashed)

Pumpkin

Green peas (mashed)

Spinach (cooked and pureed)

3. Cereals and Grains

Rice cereal

Oatmeal

Ragi (finger millet) porridge

Barley

4. Protein Sources

Lentil soup (moong dal or masoor dal)

Cooked and mashed chickpeas or beans

Well-cooked egg yolk (avoid egg white until 1 year if there's a family allergy history)

5. Dairy

Small amounts of plain, unsweetened yogurt

Cheese (soft, pasteurized, and grated)

6. Finger Foods (Optional)

Soft-cooked vegetable sticks (carrot or sweet potato)

Soft fruit slices (banana or avocado)

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Important Tips for Introducing Foods

1. One Food at a Time

Introduce one new food every 3-5 days to monitor for allergies or sensitivities.

2. Consistency

Start with smooth purees or mashed textures and gradually progress to thicker consistencies.

3. Avoid These Foods

Honey (risk of botulism until 1 year)

Whole nuts or seeds (choking hazard)

Cow’s milk as a drink (okay in small amounts in food or recipes)

Sugary, salty, or highly processed foods

4. Hydration

Offer small sips of water in an open or sippy cup during meals.

5. Watch for Allergies

Common allergens like eggs, peanuts, and wheat can be introduced in small amounts if recommended by your doctor.

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Sample Meal Ideas

1. Breakfast: Ragi porridge with mashed banana.

2. Lunch: Rice and lentil puree with a dash of ghee.

3. Snack: Steamed apple or avocado mash.

4. Dinner: Mashed sweet potato and carrot puree.

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Start slow, keep it simple, and observe your baby’s preferences and reactions. It’s a wonderful time to let your baby explore new tastes and textures!

Accepted Answer

hi
well , child is young enough ,so at this stage of age ,you can give exposure to different seasonal vegetables ,fruits , some millets ,cereals like ragi , rice etc

#asktheexperts how many types of food can introduce to my baby