Discover the best first foods for babies 6 months and above. Learn what to start with, safe feeding tips, and foods to avoid for healthy infant growth.
Introducing food to your baby is an exciting milestone! Around six months of age, babies are ready to start eating solids in addition to breast milk or formula.
But as a parent, you may wonder: What food should I give first? How much is enough? Don’t worry, we’ll make it simple for you.
Why Start at 6 Months?
Food for infants 6 months, your baby’s body needs more nutrients, especially iron, than breast milk or formula alone can provide. Their digestive system is also ready to handle soft foods. This is the right time to start with small tastes of healthy foods.
First Foods for Babies
1. Single-Grain Cereals
- Iron-fortified rice cereal or oatmeal is a gentle first food.
- Mix it with breast milk or formula to make it smooth and runny.
2. Pureed Vegetables
- Start with mild veggies like carrots, pumpkins, or sweet potatoes.
- Steam or boil until soft, then mash or blend.
3. Pureed Fruits
- Soft fruits, such as bananas, pears, apples, or papayas, are great choices.
- Avoid citrus fruits at this stage as they may be too acidic.
4. Mashed Pulses/Lentils (Dal)
- Lightly cooked and mashed lentils are a good source of protein.
- Make sure they are thin and smooth in texture.
5. Mashed Rice or Suji (Semolina Porridge)
- Easily digestible and filling for little tummies.
Feeding Tips for Parents
- One at a time: Introduce only one new food every 3 days to check for allergies.
- Small portions: Start with 1–2 teaspoons and slowly increase.
- Texture matters: Food should be smooth and soft at first. As your baby grows, you can make it thicker.
- No salt or sugar: Babies’ kidneys are not ready for them yet.
- Stay patient: Some babies take time to accept new tastes.
Foods to Avoid at 6 Months
- Honey (risk of infection)
- Whole nuts (choking hazard)
- Cow’s milk as the main drink (okay in cooking, but not as a replacement for breast milk/formula)
- Salty, sugary, or spicy foods
Final Thoughts
Every baby is different. Some may love new foods right away, while others need a little time. Stay calm, make mealtimes fun, and celebrate small steps. Your little one is starting a new food journey—and you’re guiding them with love!
