A new study recently came out that confirmed some of my suspicions working with children. In this particular study, it was found that 40% of mothers feed their children solids before the age of 4 months, which is not out of the fault of the parents but rather out of being given misinformation a majority of the time.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that babies start eating solids between 4-6 months, not before.
The purpose of diet progression is partly out of safety and partly out of necessity. Babies get all the nutrition and calories they need from breast milk or formula alone for the first months of life. Babies also do not have the skills or coordination to eat solids until 4 months and sometimes closer to 6 months. A baby may show interest in the food we eat but that does not mean it is appropriate for them to try it. It becomes a safety issue if a baby swallows incorrectly or chokes on the food.
Parents often get conflicting advice on feeding their infants, making it difficult to decipher which is credible, healthful advice and what is not. Always do your research as a parent. Ask the experts all the questions that arise. Find a registered dietitian in your local area to sit down and help with any infant or child nutrition questions you may have.
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