Stage 1 will last
6-8 weeks.
Stage 1 introduces very simple, thin purées with no
more than two ingredients. New foods should be
introduced on a 4-day schedule, meaning you’ll
introduce one new food at a time, every four days.
This is critical for tracking any allergic reactions to
a particular food.
Introducing flavors
Baby’s first “solid” meal will actually be a thin,
single ingredient purée. To create a purée that
is the appropriate consistency, purée foods with
breast milk, prepared formula or water.
“4-Day wait” rule
When introducing new foods, it’s very important to
follow the “4-Day Wait” rule: introduce new foods
one at a time, for four-days straight. For example,
if your baby tried avocados on Monday, wait until
Friday to introduce sweet potatoes. That way, you
can trace any strange reactions, rashes or poops
that appear right back to the offending food.
Only introduce new foods in the morning or early
afternoon in the event you need to reach your
pediatrician. It is fine to combine a new food with
any food you know your baby already tolerates.
Thicken the consistency over the course of Stage 1
As your baby becomes more familiar with eating,
gradually thicken the consistency of their food by
blending with less liquid (breast milk, prepared
formula or water). Let your baby lead the way.
Every child develops differently, so it’s important to talk to your
pediatrician to make informed decisions about what foods
are appropriate, specifically for your baby. If at any point you
become concerned with your baby’s eating habits, contact your
pediatrician for advice.
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