How should new foods be introduced to an infant?

• A. Offer several new foods at once with meals
• B. One new food at a time every 3-5 days; monitor for allergies
• C. Delay solids until 9 months, then introduce many foods
• D. Only water for the first year

Answer: (B)

Introducing new foods one at a time, with a 3- to 5-day interval between each new item, is the safest approach. This way you can clearly see how the infant tolerates a single food and quickly identify any allergic or intolerance reactions to that specific item. If a reaction occurs, you know which food to avoid in the future and can seek guidance promptly.

Infants are typically ready for solids around 6 months, when they can sit with support, have good head control, and show interest in food. Continue to rely on breast milk or formula as the main nutrition, using solids to complement as you introduce single-ingredient foods.

Avoid introducing several new foods at once, as that makes it hard to pinpoint the cause of any reaction. Delaying solids until 9 months is not advised because it can increase the risk of iron deficiency and delay development of feeding skills. Water is not the main drink for the first year; breast milk or formula provides the necessary hydration and nutrients, with only small amounts of water added later as advised by a clinician.