Concluding our Infant feeding series, we look at the transition to solid foods

Infants: Moving from Breast Milk or Formula to Solid Foods

I discussed breast feeding and infant formula over the last few weeks in this health column, this week I give some tips for the changeover to solid foods.

Introducing solid foods to an infant's diet is an important milestone that typically occurs between 4-6 months of age, depending on the individual needs and readiness of the infant. Solid foods provide additional nutrients that are necessary for infant growth and development and help facilitate the transition from a liquid-only diet to a more varied diet that includes different textures and flavours.

When introducing solid foods, it is recommended to start with infant cereal mixed with breast milk or formula, followed by pureed or mashed fruits and vegetables, and eventually introducing soft finger foods. It is important to introduce new foods one at a time and wait 2-3 days before introducing another food in case an allergic reaction occurs.

Additionally, it is important to avoid choking hazards such as hard candy, nuts, and raw fruits and vegetables until the infant can sufficiently chew and swallow these foods. Parents should also avoid adding salt, sugar, or other seasonings to the baby's food and should opt for fresh, whole foods whenever possible.

For comprehensive and free health advice and information call in to Whelehans Pharmacies, log on to www.whelehans.ie or dial 04493 34591 (Pearse St) or 04493 10266 (Clonmore).