how divide solid food for lunch and dinner? what we should offer for 6 month old baby?

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Accepted Answer

At six months old, babies are usually starting to explore solid foods in addition to breast milk or formula. Introducing solids is about getting your baby used to different tastes and textures. Here's a basic guide on what to offer and how to divide solid foods for lunch and dinner:

### Types of Foods:
1. **Pureed Vegetables:** Carrots, sweet potatoes, peas, and squash.
2. **Pureed Fruits:** Apples, pears, bananas, and peaches.
3. **Cereals:** Iron-fortified single-grain cereals like rice cereal mixed with breast milk or formula.
4. **Pureed Proteins:** Lentils, beans, and well-cooked pureed meats.

### Sample Meal Plan:
#### Lunch:
- **Vegetable Puree:** Offer a small portion of pureed vegetables, such as sweet potatoes or carrots.
- **Fruit Puree:** Follow with a small portion of pureed fruit, like apples or pears.
  
#### Dinner:
- **Cereal:** A small serving of iron-fortified cereal mixed with breast milk or formula.
- **Vegetable or Protein Puree:** Another small portion of a different pureed vegetable or a small amount of pureed protein like lentils.

### Tips:
1. **Start Small:** Begin with 1-2 tablespoons of food and gradually increase the amount as your baby shows interest and tolerance.
2. **One Food at a Time:** Introduce one new food every 3-5 days to monitor for any allergic reactions.
3. **Texture:** Ensure the food is pureed or mashed to a smooth consistency. As your baby gets used to eating solids, you can gradually introduce thicker textures.
4. **No Salt or Sugar:** Avoid adding salt, sugar, or any seasoning to your baby’s food.
5. **Watch for Signs of Fullness:** Pay attention to your baby's cues for hunger and fullness. Stop feeding when they turn their head away or lose interest.
6. **Variety:** Offer a variety of foods to ensure they get a range of nutrients and develop a taste for different flavors.

Remember, breast milk or formula should still be the primary source of nutrition at this age. Offer solids after a milk feed or at a time when your baby is not too hungry but not too full either. If you have any concerns about your baby's diet or feeding schedule, consult with your pediatrician.