Complementary feeding guide

Each stage of a baby’s development comes with different dietary needs and abilities. To meet their growth, development, and nutritional requirements, we need to gradually introduce appropriate solid foods. Starting from the stage of introducing first foods, to enjoying the wonderful time of chewing and swallowing, then cultivating regular eating habits, and finally entering the stage of toddler diet, each age has specific food recommendations and adaptability.

 By understanding the appropriate introduction of complementary foods for babies at different ages, we can provide them with a balanced diet, nurturing healthy eating habits. Let’s explore the complementary foods suitable for babies at different ages together and safeguard their growth and health!

6 months

Introduction to Solid Foods Stage This stage is when babies begin to explore solid foods and have their first tastes of different flavors. It’s important to start with small amounts of simple foods and gradually introduce them to the baby’s palate. At the beginning, focus on mild and bland foods such as rice cereal, diluted rice soup, vegetable purees, and fruit purees. This helps the baby transition from bottle feeding to spoon feeding.

7-9 months

Enjoying the Time of Chewing and Swallowing Practice During this stage, many babies start to have their teeth growing, allowing for the introduction of mashed vegetables and minced meat. It’s important to start with small amounts and gradually increase the quantity. Babies can now try foods with soft, small particles and well-cooked porridge, which helps them develop their chewing abilities. Additionally, their fine motor skills are developing, and they will enjoy holding and eating food by themselves. You can introduce teething biscuits, small pieces of steamed bread, and soft cooked pumpkin chunks for them to explore and enjoy.

10-12 months

 Cultivating Regular Eating Habits During this stage, babies consume more solid food each day, and the intake of breast milk or formula gradually decreases. They can now eat most types of food. You can transition from thick porridge to soft rice and from well-cooked noodles to steamed buns or dumplings. Additionally, you can introduce minced vegetables and minced meat. At this age, babies enjoy imitating adults, so you can let them join the family meals and cultivate good eating habits. Establishing a regular eating routine prepares them for the weaning process.

12 months and beyond

 Transitioning to Toddler Eating After six months of introducing solid foods, a one-year-old baby has developed the habit of having three meals a day with milk as a supplemental source of nutrition during other times. Although the baby can now eat most foods, it is still important to pay attention to the texture, softness, and mildness of the food. Avoid oily, salty, and hard-to-digest foods. Ensure a balanced diet by providing an adequate supply of protein and calories each day. It is important to incorporate a variety of vegetables and fruits to prevent the baby from developing picky eating habits. Lastly, it is worth noting that the introduction of solid foods doesn’t have to be overly complicated. Often, babies enjoy simple and common ingredients.