From the Research
For a 6-month-old baby, start with 1-2 tablespoons of solid food per meal, gradually increasing to 3-4 tablespoons per meal by 8-9 months, focusing on iron-rich foods like iron-fortified cereals, pureed meats, or beans, as recommended by recent studies 1. When introducing solids to a 6-month-old baby, it's essential to prioritize iron-rich foods to prevent iron deficiency, as highlighted in a study from 2008 2. Some key points to consider:
- Begin with smaller amounts of solid food, such as 1-2 tablespoons per meal, and gradually increase the amount as the baby becomes more accustomed to eating solids.
- Offer solids 2-3 times daily, with a focus on iron-rich foods like iron-fortified cereals, pureed meats, or beans.
- Introduce one new food every 3-5 days to monitor for allergic reactions, as suggested by a study from 2022 1.
- Breast milk or formula should still provide most of the baby's nutrition at this age, with solids complementing rather than replacing milk feedings, as noted in a study from 2021 3.
- Watch for signs that the baby is full, such as turning away from food or closing their mouth, to avoid overfeeding. It's also important to note that the composition and processing of infant formulas can affect tolerance, as shown in a study from 1999 4, and that amino-acid-based formulas may be beneficial for infants with cow's milk allergy/intolerance, as suggested by a study from 2001 5. However, the most recent and highest-quality study from 2022 1 provides the most relevant guidance on introducing solids to a 6-month-old baby.