There are two questions new parents always ask about introducing solid foods to their baby. The first, how soon should I start my baby on solid foods? The second, how to know the amount of solid food baby should eat? These questions go hand in hand. Here is a few clues to help you.
Some babies are ready for solid food between 4 to 6 months old, but most times it is closer to 6 months old. Watch for signs of discontent between regular feedings. You should observe the baby is starting to lose the tongue thrust response. This is where anything which enters the mouth is promptly thrust back out with the tongue. When you notice these two trends, you can start to try your baby on solid foods. The first food should be rice cereal.
The amount of solid food to start with will be very low. Usually only a tablespoon or two is all that is required. Make sure to mix the cereal very thinly, where it is very runny. This will make is easy for your baby to swallow and to get started on the right foot. As they become more accustomed to eating the cereal, you can gradually increase the ratio of cereal to milk to make it thicker.
As your baby gets between 6 to 8 months old, you can begin to introduce pureed fruits and vegetables. Your baby may eat up to a 1/4 to 1/3 cup of food at this stage, about the equivalent of a small baby food jar. Make sure when you are starting out to limit new foods to every 3 days. You want to verify the baby is not allergic to the new food before introducing the next one.
After 8 months old, the desire for solid foods can rapidly increase. You will find you are feeding higher amounts of baby foods up to a 1/2 cup at a feeding. You can also start introducing some finger foods at this time. Cooked pasta, Cheerios, small bits of banana, and other small foods will be loved by your baby.
At 10 to 12 months, your baby will be wanting more dense foods, and can eat higher quantities. You can start introducing more protein like baby food meat dishes, small pieces of baby hot dogs (specially made for babies, pieces must be small to avoid choking hazards), eggs, and other soft meats are acceptable.
After 12 months, your baby will start eating more foods from your table. The amount of solid food allowed will be based on their appetite, not on a randomly selected amount. Do not force food on the baby, but allow them to dictate how much they want. They will stop eating when full.
The best advice for how to know the amount of solid food baby should eat, let them make the decision. If they are still acting hungry give them more. If they are refusing the food, they are full. Do not be worried about hitting preset guidelines.