Q: I am confused about when to begin solids for my baby. There seems to be a lot of conflicting information.
ANS: There is conflicting information on many subjects! Different babies have different needs and different times to introduce solids. The literature also does not help…..some articles say wait til they have teeth; others say wait til 6 months or 12 months…there are really no wrong answers—it is important to listen to the baby!
Our policy at the Franz Center is that we introduce the information of feeding at the 4 month visit. When you begin solids is up to you as a parent. Some children are ready to eat solids at 4 months (especially those who are slowing on weight gain or have reflux or are grabbing food off parents’ plate). Many babies who are happy and growing well do not need solids until 6 months.
The providers at the Franz center all recommend using the Chinese Medicine method- which is from 4-12 months introduce foods that grow from a flower- seeded foods- no roots tubers stems or leaves. We no longer recommend grains during this time- too many allergy issues overall. We are also fans of table food- introduce one new food at a time; if you can mush it then the child can try it. Introduce only one food every 3-4 days.
There is lots of flexibility in the schedule so parents can have it fit their plans. It is a concept introduced at the 4 month visit.
I hope this clarifies it for you and offers beneficial information.
We love helping improve the health of your family!
Thanks for asking
Dr Franz