William J. Klish, M.D., is Professor of Pediatrics, Head of Pediatric
Gastroenterology at Baylor College of Medicine and Chief of the Nutrition
and Gastroenterology Department at Texas Children's Hospital in Houston.
Dr. Klish has served as chair of the Committee on Nutrition of the American
Academy of Pediatrics.
Q:When my baby is ready for solids should I start with fruits or vegetables? How long should I feed her one before starting the other?
A: Solids generally are started between 4 and 6 months of age. Cereals are the first solid to be started because they are usually iron-fortified, and babies need a little extra iron beginning at six months. After cereals are introduced, tradition dictates that the progession should be fruits, vegetables, meats, mixed dinners, and desserts.
It's okay, however, to introduce foods in a different order because your baby is perfectly able to digest all solids at this age. It's best to give a new food every two or three days to be sure your baby can tolerate the food before trying another. Signs of food allergy include vomiting , skin rash, diarrhea, and wheezing.
Important disclaimer: The information on keepkidshealthy.com is for educational purposes only and should not be considered to bemedical advice. It is not meant to replace the advice of the physician who cares for your child. All medical advice and information should be considered to be incomplete without a physical exam, which is not possible without a visit to your doctor.
William J. Klish, M.D., is Professor of Pediatrics, Head of Pediatric
Gastroenterology at Baylor College of Medicine and Chief of the Nutrition
and Gastroenterology Department at Texas Children's Hospital in Houston.
Dr. Klish has served as chair of the Committee on Nutrition of the American
Academy of Pediatrics.
