Confusion over what is suitable for children has been fuelled by a heightened awareness of the need for a healthy diet. Following guidelines can be applied while choosing infant foods Pediatricians recommend using prepared infant formulae containing iron and vitamins for the first year. Infant formulae are considered as nutritionally complete meals for babies until about six months of age so it is recommended to wait till then to start solid foods. If pureed foods are started earlier, a baby is likely to spit it out, as they are not neurologically ready to accept solids by then. 6 months onwards Dal water, diluted rice water, mashed banana, fruit juice etc.
Home cooked foods can provide variety of tastes and textures when started.
Milk products, yoghurt and custard can be introduced. Gluten containing cereals should be delayed till the infant is six months of age. Single grain cereal is often the first one added. New foods should be added one at a time to allow them to get used to the flavour of the food and also get him to agree with it. The most important thing to remember when starting solid foods is to use your common sense.