Lately I’ve been hearing a lot of not-so-great recommendations related to starting breastfed babies on solid food. Many of these recommendations are put out by the baby food industry and formula companies and are not evidence based. Breastfed babies tend to have completely different eating patterns and needs than formula fed babies. All babies should also be fed solids according to their own developmental skills and individual appetites, not based on a preset schedule.

Diet and eating and drinking skills have a huge effect on your infant’s health and development. It is worth it to take a little time to do some research. Below are some good, evidence based resources on starting solids with a breastfed baby. As with everything else, there is never a one-size-fits-all approach. If your baby was premature, you have low milk supply, your baby has a history of oral restrictions or oral dysfunction, you are struggling with combining breastfeeding and solid foods, or you would just like to get some in-person support, please contact an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant.