The Nursing Baby - Q&A

Shelly asks:
"When do I begin to introduce other foods other than breastmilk? My baby is 4 months old and seems quite content with just milk, but people keep telling me I should begin cereal. When do I know my baby needs more than my milk?"

Hi Shelly,

According to the AAP, no solids should be given before 6 months. They recommend introducing solids sometime in the second half of the first year (between 6 and 12 months). There are several good reasons for waiting.

Introduction of solids may diminish the protective effect of breastmilk against disease.
Early introduction is strongly associated with Chron's disease - a disease that causes suffering, and can in rare instances result in death.
Can you say stinky diapers?!
Early introduction can exacerbate later allergies in susceptible babies.
The introduction of solids or any non-breastmilk food such as formula changes the bacteria in the gut. We do not know all the potential effects of modifying the slow maturation nature expects.

While your friends mean well, they are unlikely to know all the reasons to avoid solids. In the past in America, mothers often competed with each other to see whose baby would start solids sooner, and how many solids they could eat, and how fast they could be weaned. While competition is important, it doesn't have a place in the introduction of solids.

These tips are not intended to be medical advice. Please consult your healthcare provider if you have questions.

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