Is your baby around 6 months old and are you thinking about first bites? That transition from breastfeeding to solid food is an exciting time! Naturally, you want the best for your little one and want to make sure they get all the nutrients they need. In this blog you will read what to look out for during this important period.
Why is this transition period so important?
Until now, your baby has received everything through breastfeeding or formula. Breast milk naturally contains all the nutrients a baby needs, including DHA. This omega-3 fatty acid is important for your baby's development. DHA contributes to the normal visual development of infants up to 12 months of age.*
Around 6 months, however, your baby's iron stores are depleted and they need more energy than milk alone can provide. So it is time for those first spoonfuls!
When is your baby ready for solid food?
Are you unsure whether your baby is ready? That is very recognizable! Every baby develops at their own pace, but there are a few clear signals you can look out for:
Physical signs
Your baby can sit upright with some support from you. You also see that they show interest in what you eat: they might even reach for your plate! Another good sign is that your baby can bring food to their mouth and that the tongue-thrust reflex (which automatically pushes solid food away) has disappeared.
The timing is right
Most babies are ready for first bites around 6 months. Some babies are ready a little earlier (around 17 weeks), others a little later (up to 26 weeks). Above all, pay attention to your own baby's signals rather than just looking at the calendar.
What if your baby does not seem ready yet?
Is your baby already around 6 months old but you do not notice the physical signs yet? Or is the timing right, but does your baby not seem interested in food yet? Then wait another week and try again. Some babies simply need a bit more time to develop. No rush: your baby will let you know when the time has come.
Which nutrients deserve extra attention?
Now that your baby is switching to solid food, there are a number of nutrients that are extra important. Not all nutrients are present in the same amounts in breast milk, and some are needed more after 6 months. These are the most important ones to keep an eye on:
Iron: the number 1 priority
Iron is really at the top of the list. Your baby is born with an iron supply that lasts about 6 months. After that, it has to come in through food. Iron contributes to the normal cognitive development of children* and is good for concentration*.
So give iron-rich first bites such as finely ground meat, fish or porridge enriched with iron. Green vegetables such as spinach and broccoli also contain iron. Tip: combine iron-rich foods with vitamin C (think of some orange juice or bell pepper). That helps your baby's body absorb iron better.
Zinc and vitamin D
Your baby also needs zinc. Zinc plays a role in the cell division process* and contributes to the normal function of the immune system.* You find it in meat, fish and whole grain products. For babies, meat and fish in particular are good sources.
Babies usually get vitamin D through drops, because there are few foods that naturally contain vitamin D. Vitamin D is needed for the normal growth and development of children's bones* and contributes to the normal function of the immune system in children.* So keep giving your child vitamin D, even when you start with solid food.
DHA for the eyes and brain
DHA remains important after 6 months. This omega-3 fatty acid contributes to the normal visual development of infants up to 12 months of age.* Your baby needs about 100 mg of DHA per day for this effect.
Are you still (partially) breastfeeding? Then your baby still gets DHA through your milk, provided you get enough of it yourself. As a mother, you need an extra 200 mg of DHA per day while breastfeeding.* Fish such as salmon or cod are good sources of DHA for your baby's first bites.
Are you worried about whether your child is getting enough DHA? Then you can also choose omega-3 from fish oil, algae oil or gummies from Arctic Blue. These are specially made for children aged 1 and up and also contain vitamin D.
Practical tips for the transition to solid food
Now that you know which nutrients are important, it is time for practice! Those first spoonfuls can be exciting, for you and for your baby. But with these tips it becomes a lot easier:
- Start with one new flavor at a time and wait a few days before introducing something new. That way you can see whether your baby tolerates it well and gets used to the new flavors. Does your baby get a rash or stomach ache? Then you know immediately what caused it.
- Give your baby different flavors, colors and textures. This way they learn to eat a varied diet and get many different nutrients. Think of orange vegetables (carrot, sweet potato), green vegetables (broccoli, spinach) and different types of fruit.
- Put a bit more fish on the menu. Start with mild fish such as salmon or cod. Make sure all the bones are removed! Once or twice a week is already enough. Or use omega-3 for children from Arctic Blue as an alternative.
- Keep breastfeeding. The World Health Organization advises continuing breastfeeding until the age of 2, alongside solid food. Through your breast milk, your baby still receives valuable nutrients, including DHA.
- Some days your baby eats a lot, other days little. That is completely normal! Never force it and make it a pleasant moment. Babies sense when you are stressed, and that does not help with eating.
Finally: trust your instincts!
That transition to solid food does not have to cause stress. Every baby develops at their own pace. The most important thing is that your baby eats a varied diet and gets all the important nutrients. And remember: those first messy meals may be chaotic, but they are also very special. Enjoy them!
*Approved health claims from the EFSA. For the visual development of infants, a daily intake of 100 mg of DHA applies. For pregnant and breastfeeding women, an extra daily intake of 200 mg of DHA is recommended.
