Starting food at 4 months?

*Mush*

I know this is controversial and I want to research it before talking to the pedi at the 4month appointment.

 

Anyone have good links on why it is good/bad to start food early?  Thanks

zucchinigirl

I'm no expert and haven't done much research about the topic but I believe I've heard it can lead to food allergies if started too early.

jenhum

https://babyfit.sparkpeople.com/articles.asp?id=712

Breastmilk and/or formula is all a baby needs for the first year, although many babies are ready for solids before that time.

DD sits at the dinner table in her high chair and reaches for our food and chomps her mouth in imitation of us- but b/c she's had some stomach issues (reflux, constipation) we are waiting until at least 6 months- maybe 7- until we start cereal.

I believe that just b/c a baby may be showing the outward signs of being ready, that doesn't mean that their digestive systems are quite ready yet.

JMHO!

radiokate

Also the American Association of Pediatrics reccommends waiting until 6 months, I don't know how to make a clicky, but their website is aap.org!

jacobandcrystal

I haven't done a whole lot of research, but here's our experience...

Our 1st started solids at 3 months!  He was a big guy, formula fed, and was just getting antsy all the time.  We tried cereal one time to see how it would go, and he slept through the night from day 1 (I know people think cereal can't help with that, but that would be a big coincidence!).  He LOVED his cereal.  He'll be turning 3 in May and likes all foods, no problems whatsoever.

Our 2nd is breastfed, even bigger than his brother was, but didn't enjoy cereal like his brother did.  We tried to start at 4 months but he wasn't really that into it.  Now he's 5 months and loves his cereal.  We've also started peas and he loves those too!

I think it's all a matter of what your individual baby is ready for.  You could try one cereal feeding at four months and just see how it goes.  Make a decision from there! 

Worcbride

We got the green light at 4 mos and DD was def ready---she was eyeing us whenever we ate and tried to get at our food.  It's worked out well for us.

taylor20204

Our pedi cleared him at his 4 month appt. to start rice cereal and fruits.  I waited about 2 weeks and just had the vibe that DS was ready.  He's now on oatmeal cereal, apples and pears and we're starting sweet potatoes this weekend.  That being said, we'll be staying with just single, uncomplicated foods for at least another month or two.  He loves it!  But I too think it really is based on the individual baby.  I never thought I'd start before 6 months, but DS is huge and seemed ready, and sure enough it's working out great.  Do what your comfortable with.