When and how should babies start eating complementary foods?

When and how should babies start eating complementary foods?

Normally, babies can start eating complementary foods when they are 4-6 months old. Babies of this age usually weigh 6.5-7kg and can maintain a stable posture, control trunk movements, sit up with support, and eat from a spoon.

From 4 to 6 months, pureed foods can be added, such as vegetable purees, fruit purees, iron-containing formula rice cereals, formula milk, etc.

At 7-9 months, minced food can be added, such as soft rice, formula milk, minced meat, minced vegetables, eggs, fish paste, tofu, formula rice noodles, fruits, etc.

At 10-12 months, minced food can be added, such as soft rice, formula milk, minced meat, minced vegetables, eggs, fish, soy products, fruits, etc.

The basic principles of adding complementary foods

1. From one to multiple principles: First use a single complementary food, eat it continuously for 3-5 days. After no adverse reactions, use the second food alone for 3-5 days, until all the complementary foods to be added in the near future are tried one by one. Then you can mix and add the foods that have been eaten. This is mainly to facilitate the discovery of children's allergies to certain foods.

2. From little to more: Use the method of gradual increase, frequency and quantity, and do not rush to ensure a smooth transition.

3. The principle from fine to coarse (mud → powder → crushed).

4. The principle of food from soft to hard.

5. Strengthen the cultivation of independent eating skills, give more praise and encouragement, and do not use rough, coercive or intimidating methods.

6. Cultivate a sense of time and develop the habit of eating on time and finishing meals on time.

7. Ensure that the tableware is clean and sanitary and the ingredients are fresh.

8. Pay attention to safety and prevent burns or other accidental injuries.