What are the best first foods for my baby?

The ideal first foods for a baby are soft, plain, and easy to digest. Start with iron-fortified foods like fortified cereals for babies or puree of meats since iron stores start depleting around six months. Mashed bananas or pears, soft-cooked and mashed vegetables like carrots or sweet potato, and soft grains like baby rice are acceptable options as well. These foods contain vital nutrients without overloading a baby’s developing digestive system. Foods should be introduced one at a time with a few days between each time to look out for any reactions. Salt, sugar, and honey should be avoided early in weaning. Consistency needs to be smooth, eventually progressing to lumpier textures as the baby becomes more confident with swallowing. Providing a range of wholesome foods promotes healthy habits early in life and contributes to physical and cognitive growth. Responding to feeding means always allowing the baby to display hunger or fullness cues.