This is one of the most frequently asked questions during our Weaning Wednesday Q&A’s ( join in Weekly on Instagram). Introducing solid foods to a seven-month-old baby is an exciting and important milestone. By this age your baby will be on three meals a day: Breakfast, Dinner 1 and Dinner 2. Read on to find out why!
It is important to note that every baby is different and may need to eat more or less than this. Be sure to talk to your doctor about your baby's feeding schedule.
Morning (around 7 AM):
-
Breast milk or formula: Start the day with breastfeeding or a bottle of formula milk to ensure your baby is well-hydrated.
Plus 1 hour (leave a gap of at least an hour between milk and food.
-
Breakfast: Offer a 3oz/90ml portion of cereal with fruit either puréed or mashed depending on your baby’s ability.
Mid-morning (around 10-11 AM):
-
Breast milk or formula: Offer another breastfeeding session or a bottle of formula milk for additional nourishment.
Dinner 1 (around 12-1 PM):
I am not a fan of the word lunch or tea as it can be confusing to come up with ideas. At this meal you should include a Protein, Carbohydrate and Vegetable.
-
Dinner 1: From six months your baby can have family meals that are adapted (less the salt). Try to add more variety and texture at this stage.
Afternoon (around 3 PM):
-
Breast milk or formula: Offer a breastfeeding session or a bottle of formula milk.
Dinner (around 5/5:30 PM):
-
Dinner 2: This meal can be a combination of vegetables and carbohydrates and does not have to include protein.
Before Bedtime (around 7-7:30 PM):
-
Breast milk or formula: Offer a final breastfeeding session or a bottle of formula before putting your baby to bed.
Notes:
-
Water: You can introduce a sippy cup with a small amount of water during meal times.
-
Texture: As your baby gets used to purees, gradually introduce thicker textures and small soft pieces of food for them to grasp. Always ensure the pieces are soft and cut into small, manageable sizes to avoid choking hazards.
-
Allergenic Foods: introduce common allergenic foods like eggs, dairy, soy, peanuts, and wheat at six months. Check out our tailored advice in our Weaning Academy.
Remember, every baby is different, so it's important to watch your baby's cues and respond to their needs.
Our Weaning Advice page provides information and advice on weaning your baby. It includes recipes, tips, and articles on a variety of topics related to weaning, such as introducing finger food, adding herbs and spices to baby food, and healthy snacks for your baby, and lots more