Starting Solids

mrsf123

A random girl at the supermarket with the same stroller as me asked "Will you start solids when your pedi says it's ok".  I thought it was a strange question.  At our last appointment, the pedi said "She's probably about a month and a half away from starting solids" and I thought, "ok sounds good".

Why wouldn't you start solids when the pedi gives you the ok? Are there pros and cons to starting solids or when to start solids? Tell me everything you know!

PeonyParty

A couple weeks ago our pediatrician gave us the go ahead (4 mo check up) and we still have not. She has given me no signs that she wants or is ready for solids, so until then I am fine with just nursing.

nikki368

There is always a debate on this topic. Some people believe that starting solids too early will make your baby obese for the rest of his/her life. I have a very hard time believing that feeding a baby healthy sweet potatoes, pears, or whatever now will have a lasting effect on their weight forever. If you overstuff the baby now and continue to do so for the next 18 years, maybe.

Also, if your family has a history of food allergies, it's best to keep your baby away from certain foods until the are a little older.

Other than that, I have no idea why people make sure a big deal about starting solids. Some babies are ready at 4 months and some baby are not. If the baby is ready, he'll eat. If she's not ready, she won't eat. Hunter was very much ready to eat at 4 months. He opened his mouth for the spoon and swallowed the first try. Had he not enjoyed it, I would have waited. If you think the baby is ready, all you can do is try.

grlmom16

I am a FF and my Ped said to start solids 'between 4-6' months...he said right now she's probably still fine w/ just formula. I have tried to give her cereal, and just today a couple bites of sweet potatoes (sp?) and she seems to like both, opened wide and swallowed w/ first bites. I thought she might be ready, that's why I tried. I still will only give her some once a day and probably just a few teaspoons full, if that.  The Dr said after her 6 month appt they will talk about getting her more on a meal plan so to speak. I think it basically depends on the baby...I'm not worried about the obesity thing. I waited the 4 months..