At what age is it appropriate to introduce solid foods to an infant's diet?

Introducing solid foods to an infant's diet is recommended around six months of age. By this time, most infants have developed the necessary physiological and developmental skills needed to consume solids. This includes the ability to sit up with minimal support and to show signs of readiness, such as showing interest in food and the ability to move food to the back of their mouth and swallow it.

At around six months, infants also have an increased ability to digest solid foods as their gastrointestinal systems mature. They have typically been exclusively breastfed or formula-fed up to this point, and introducing solids aids in providing additional nutrients, particularly iron and zinc, which are crucial for their growth and development.

Introducing solids too early, such as at three months, can increase the risk of choking and may not align with the infant’s developmental capabilities. Waiting too long, such as until nine or twelve months, might delay the acquisition of important eating skills and could lead to nutritional deficiencies. Therefore, the recommendation to begin at around six months supports both safety and optimal nutritional intake for infants.