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Most doctors and holistic practitioners will agree that the digestive systems of babies are still immature until they reach six months of age. For that reason they recommend that the baby be fed breast milk and formula until this age. How can you tell if your baby is ready
to start on solids? There are a few signs of readiness as well as a few guidelines that you should keep in mind.
Is your baby able to sit upright when supported? This is important for swallowing?
Is your baby still hungry even after 8-10 feedings of breastmilk or formula?
Has your baby doubled his/her birthweight?
Once you've established that your baby is ready to move on to the wonderful world of solid foods, there are a few things you should keep in mind. The most important thing to remember is that the risk of allergic reactions can be higher in babies so it is recommeded that you start with an easy to digest rice cereal mixed with either formula or breastmilk. The cereal should be runny and one or two teaspoons is probably plenty.
Always be aware of allergic reactions when introducing any new food. Things to watch for include, rashes, coughs, diarrhea, hives, or vomiting. If any of these show after introducing a new food it may be because baby's digestive system is not quite ready, or there may be an allergic reaction. If there is a reaction stop feeding the food and take note of the offending food.
FOODS TO AVOID IN THE FIRST YEAR
Egg Whites
Dairy products
Soy
Wheat
HONEY-- Honey is unpastuerized and may contain botulism spores.
Peanut butter, if there is a peanut allergy in either parent wait until child is 3.
Nuts-- due to choking hazard.
It's also important to mention that the best foods to feed baby are whole food. Processed foods contain added salts, sugars, and trans-fats that baby doesn't need.
http://www.alive.com/4772a12a2.php
(October 2006) (
