Introducing baby’s first food can be a daunting task for new parents. With all those horror stories of fussy eaters and allergies, baby’s parents want to get it right from the start.

This article will help you get to grips with medical recommendations and how baby’s first food can become family fun time.

So when should I introduce baby’s first food?

Experts recommend that baby should ideally be breastfed for at least the first year of his life. Breast milk is nutritionally perfect for your baby’s development and all he needs. In fact, in most non-Western cultures it has been observed that babies are usually breastfed for about 2 years before being weaned.

Studies in modern cultures have shown that the average time a baby is breastfed is about 4 months. Some mothers may also decide against breastfeeding altogether because of medical or personal reasons. There are formulas on the market specifically designed for different ages of baby. They represent the only alternative to breast milk as they are designed to be “as close to nature” as artificially possible.

When it is time for baby to taste first solid food, health visitors now follow the guidelines of the World Health Organisation (WHO) which recommends that no solid food should be introduced before the first 6 months.

However, you may receive contradicting advice from older relatives and friends who advocate the introduction of solid food sooner than 6 months. Whatever your decision, follow your baby’s lead: He will show you if he is interested by watching you eat with eager anticipation or by showing signs of being hungrier than normal.

Baby’s first food – How to get started!

Here are important guidelines to help you get started comfortably. Always keep in mind that you need to keep it simple and provide nutritionally balanced food. If you prepare your own food label the containers. Make a note of the ingredients used in case your baby shows an allergic reaction

- Your baby should be comfortable. Depending on his age, a high chair might not be supportive enough. You can try a Bumbo Baby Seat or a bouncing chair.

- You should use a rubber-tipped spoon as it is kinder to his gums.

- You can start with baby rice as it is gluten free and easy to digest. You can mix it with breast milk or formula so the taste will be familiar. You should keep it fairly liquid to start with as your baby has to get used to the different taste and texture first.

- Pick a quiet and relaxed time of day. Your efforts will be more successful when your baby is well rested and both you and your little one make it a fun time together. If you have older children running around the house try to find the best time that fits in with your baby’s and your other child’s routine.

- Don’t let baby become too hungry when trying to eat for the first time. It is a good idea to give your baby some milk before you give him solid food so that he is not too hungry.

- If your baby is ready for his first solid food he will open his mouth and be happy to try it. Don’t get frustrated if he continues to reject it though - just relax and try it again some other time!

- Never ever force him to eat and don’t rush it. Babies need time and a smile.

- If your baby has had enough of his first food he will show you by turning his head away, refuse to open his mouth again or play with the spoon. Try to read your baby’s signs and respect them. You should discard the remains of the meal and offer him another drink of milk to finish it.

- If your baby is happy with his first taste of solid food increase the amount of food slowly. However, keep in mind that milk is the main part of his diet at this stage.

- If your baby refuses baby rice or becomes constipated as a result of it, there are other alternatives.

For more information please visit www.babysbest.co.uk/Articles/Babys-first-food