“Doctor, baby 6 mahine ka ho gaya hai… ab kya khilana shuru karein?”

We hear this question all the time at Maternite Hospital.
And honestly — it’s one of our favourite conversations with new moms.

The 6-month mark is special. Your baby is ready to explore more than just milk — and you get to enjoy the messy, funny, adorable first bites.

Here’s a simple, no-pressure guide to starting solid foods the Indian way — safely, gently, and with confidence.

When to Start Solids?

The best time to introduce solids is around 6 months — not before 5 months and not later than 7 months.

Your baby may be ready if:

• They can hold their head up
• They show interest when others are eating
• They try to put things in their mouth
• They’ve doubled their birth weight

But remember: solids complement, not replace breast milk or formula in the first year.

How to Start – One Spoon at a Time

Start with 1–2 spoons once a day, and gradually build up to 2–3 small meals over the next few weeks.

Follow the “one new food at a time” rule — wait 3–4 days before introducing the next new food to check for allergies or reactions.

First Indian Foods to Try

Keep it simple, soft, and local.

Week 1–2 (Single-grain purees):

• Rice water (mand)
• Moong dal water
• Suji kheer (watery, no sugar)
• Mashed banana
• Steamed apple puree

 

Week 3 onwards (Thicker textures):

• Khichdi (moong dal + rice, mashed)
• Ragi porridge
• Mashed carrot, potato, or pumpkin
• Mashed seasonal fruits (chikoo, papaya)

No salt, sugar, or spices in the beginning. Just warmth, texture, and taste.

At Maternite, our in-house nutritionist for women and children in Jaipur also helps mothers create custom food charts based on home food and baby’s needs.

Continue Milk Feeds

Breast milk or formula still remains the main food until age 1.
Offer milk before or after solid feeds, depending on your baby’s hunger pattern.
No cow’s milk, honey, or dry fruits in whole form yet.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Rushing to feed 3 meals a day immediately
• Giving juices instead of mashed fruit
• Adding sugar, salt, or ghee too early
• Comparing your baby’s appetite to others
• Worrying too much if they spit food out — that’s normal!

Every baby eats differently. Some love food from day one. Some take a few weeks.

What We Tell Parents at Maternite

Weaning should be a fun, stress-free milestone — not a pressure-filled task.
We encourage homemade, simple foods and gentle pacing.

And if your baby refuses food, vomits, has rashes, or digestion issues — don’t panic. Come in and speak to our child stomach specialist in Jaipur or pediatrician.

We’re here to guide, not judge.

Need help with your baby’s food chart or first solids?
Call +91 8502021222 to book a consult with our newborn care team at Maternite Hospital Jaipur — your partner for every little bite.