Right nutrition during infancy is important for baby's development and growth. For most infants breast milk is more than sufficient and all that they would need for the first 6 months. Breastfeeding provides protection from illness and is the best source of nutrition for your baby.

This is the reason why doctors recommend breast milk which is most economical and the best food for your baby. In certain cases if the mother is not able to produce sufficient milk, breast milk substitute can be used in addition to breastfeeding. It is important to seek doctor's advice in such a case.

When should solid foods be introduced?

When your baby has gained double their birth weight and can hold their head steadily and can even sit with a little support, it is the right time to introduce solid foods. On an average a baby can show these developments within 4 to 6 months from birth.

For a baby of 4 to 6 months single grain food should be introduced such as ragi (nachni) and rice. Start introducing one new cereal such as wheat/ ragi/ rice at a time. If you wish to introduce another new cereal do so after 3 to 7 days.

When you first start feeding your baby with cereal watch out for symptoms such as diarrhea, wheezing, rash, hives, vomiting or coughing. If your baby is showing any of these symptoms they may be allergic to the new food and you should immediately consult your health care provider.

Prepare cereal following the instruction on the pack. Start with 1 teaspoon mixed with 4 to 5 teaspoon of milk or water. Do not add honey, syrups or sugar to your baby's cereal.

For a baby of 6 to 8 months you can start introducing fruits, vegetables and protein. Start with teaspoon of fruit juices or vegetable soups and gradually increase to 6 to 8 teaspoon of each food divided between two feeding of the day.

Only after your baby can comfortable consume fruits, vegetable and cereal you can start introducing protein sources such as soft cooked egg white, chicken or meat soup, cooked or mashed dried beans, fish and yogurt.

It is always better to breastfeed 1 to 2 hours before feeding your baby with solid foods, this is to make sure the baby gets enough breast milk which, no doubt is the best source of nutrition.

Remember young children eat more because they have a smaller stomach while their energy needs are high. Introducing nutritious food early helps in developing a health life-long eating habits.Amit R Sinha