According to experts, the best time to start feeding your baby solids is when he’s four to six months old. By doing so, some claim that it helps increase the weight of your baby and make him sleep better at night. However, some experts also argue that a baby’s immature digestive system should not be taken for granted and mothers should be careful in feeding her child solid foods that may trigger allergies and encourage obesity.
The Australian Breastfeeding Association highly encouraged mothers to delay introducing solid foods until six months of age. For the first six months, ABA strongly suggests that babies be only breastfed. Even if babies are gradually introduced to solid foods, mothers should ensure that they breastfeed their infant until one year and beyond.
So will solids help my baby sleep better at night?
Not really. It has been found that babies won’t necessarily sleep any longer on solids than on a sufficient feed of breast milk. Some infants require more feeding at night and some babies become irritable and will likely sleep insufficiently when solids are introduced earlier than it should be.
How to know when is the right time to offer solids?
Only your baby can tell when he is ready for solids. This is usually around six months. If he seems unsatisfied even after frequent breastfeeds then he might be ready. If your baby would like to eat when you are eating then this is a good indication as well. But if your baby does not show interest on your foods then he’s not ready. Some babies need to be at least seven or eight months old before they start appreciating solids.
Finally Starting Solids
Keep in mind that similar to learning how to walk; your baby will eat solids when he is developmentally ready. Though we understand that milestones such as this may be exciting, it’s best if you don’t rush things. By listening and observing your baby, you’ll know when he’s ready to eat solids with you.