My baby is almost five months old and likes to watch me eat. Does this mean he is ready for solids?
It's exciting to start introducing foods to your baby, especially if he is showing interest. However, since his digestive system is still maturing, it’s recommended to wait until around 6 months before offering solid foods.
Your breast milk is the perfect food for your baby and it changes to meet his needs. It's easy to digest and absorb. Breast milk should be your baby's main food until age one.
When your baby reaches 6 months old, talk with his doctor or a dietitian about signs that he might be ready to begin solid foods.
Some Readiness Signs
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- Baby can sit up without help
- Baby doesn't push foods out of his mouth with his tongue
- Baby slurps breast milk and saliva into his mouth
- Baby can pick things up with his fist
To ensure your baby isn’t filling up on solids and is still receiving all the breast milk he needs, always breastfeed first, then offer solid foods.