Which statement about feeding is the recommended sequence to encourage a baby to try new foods?

• A. Introduce solids before formula or breast milk.
• B. Introduce new solid foods before formula or breast milk.
• C. Only solids and no formula.
• D. Never introduce solids.

Answer: (B)

To help a baby accept new flavors and textures, offer the new solid food first, then provide formula or breast milk. Presenting the solid while the infant is hungry increases curiosity and willingness to try it, and it prevents the baby from filling up on milk before the new food is offered. After the new solid is introduced, continue formula or breast milk to meet the baby’s nutritional needs and support growth. Introducing one new solid at a time and observing tolerance over several days helps you identify any adverse reactions while still ensuring ongoing nutrition. Other approaches that skip solids, rely only on solids, or place solids after a full milk feeding don’t support the gradual acceptance and proper nutrition needed during this stage.