How to introduce complementary foods for babies

Introducing complementary foods to babies is a gradual process that should follow certain principles and steps. When babies are between 4 to 6 months old, have doubled their birth weight, and their digestive systems can tolerate solid foods, it is appropriate to begin introducing complementary foods. Start with single-ingredient foods such as diluted rice cereal or rice water, gradually progressing to staple foods like millet porridge. Afterwards, add easily digestible fruit and vegetable purees, such as banana or apple puree. Initially, the food should be thin in consistency, gradually becoming thicker; feeding amounts should start small and increase over time; and food particle size should progress from fine to coarser textures. Additionally, parents should observe their baby's reactions, watching for any adverse symptoms such as allergies or diarrhea, and adjust the type and amount of complementary foods accordingly. At the same time, maintain a balanced diet for the baby to ensure adequate intake of various nutrients.