The only thing predictable about infants’ diet is unpredictability. Sometimes, as a mother, you just want a clear roadmap as to what to do when. Wouldn’t that make everything easier?

 

Well, don’t stress it. Infants follow more or less the same pattern. Just keep some basic guidelines, and you’ll figure out the rest.

 

0-4m

 

The first year of your baby’s life is a crucial time for healthy development. A mother’s milk is essential during the first 4 months, as it builds your baby’s immune system. Make sure you don’t bypass this important step, and if you need to, make sure you consult your doctor about any issues you may be facing.

 

 

4-6m

 

At this time, you can start your baby on mashed foods in addition to breast milk. Make sure you mash up the food into a fine paste. Use ingredients like bananas, avocados, carrots, sweet potatoes, apples and pears. These are rich in vitamins, proteins and iron and can be made into soups or juices as well.

 

6-8m

 

At this time, you can start a semi-solid diet by not mashing up ingredients entirely. Introduce rice, pulses and vegetables into your baby’s diet at this time, making sure to mash it up into a semi-solid form.

 

8-12m

 

Soft solid foods are ok for your baby now. You can even introduce external milk or dairy products into your baby’s diet at this stage. Just make sure that this diet consists of all the essential nutrients required for your baby’s development.

 

 

12m

 

At this stage, you can start to include mild spices in your baby’s food. These can include turmeric, cumin and even cinnamon. You may even start to notice your baby reacting to all these new exciting flavours!

 

Make sure you supplement all these foods with milk, as it is one of the most essential foods your baby can have. Before you know it, your baby will happily be eating away at everything, including random things he or she finds on the floor – so be careful!!