is it ok to introduce mushed fruit to a 4 month old on occation?

[BoomBoom]

but still exclusively breastfeed for the rest of the time and not fully wean until 6 months.

 

[Pippin]

Solids, whether 'mushed fruit' or cereal or cut up carrots, are usually introduced at around 6 months or later. You *can* offer as early as 4 months, but there is rarely any benefit to doing so, and early solids are associated with risks. Baby still needs nothing but breastmilk.

So best to hold off on any solids for another couple of months. (And, just to clarify, I assume you're using 'weaning' in the UK sense -- adding solids, rather than the US sense -- stopping breastfeeding. Of course you don't stop breastfeeding (unless necessary for some pressing reason) until at least a year.)

 

[frogysue]

Many people do start solids at 4 months (the AAP recommends waiting until 6 months, as of course you know). It is totally fine to start solids slowly (probably better in fact, because it gives their tummies time to adjust and helps prevent constipation). Stick to gentle stuff like pear, banana, apple, mango, plum, avocado, and peach.

It is a myth that you need to do veggies first in order to get them to accept veggies; all sources I have read say either fruits or veggies first is fine.

Even at 6 months you should count on BFing (or formula feeding) for most of their nutrition, and at least 4-5 times a day. Even at that age most babies are only having 1 meal of solids (like I said, no need to rush), and breast milk/formula remains the best nutrition until 1 year.

A great website for starting solids is http://www.wholesomebabyfood.com

 

[saffrondoula]

I'd talk about it with your pediatrician or family doctor before adding solids to your baby's diet, especially because all health organizations associated with infants recommend no solids until 6 months of age.

Is there a health reason you are considering starting solids so early? Is there some benefit to it that makes it better than waiting until the recommended time?

Many babies will start showing interest in solid foods, paying more attention to you during mealtime, mouth watering, etc. This doesn't mean they're ready for solids. It just means they're starting to get used to the idea and recognize that this is what the big people eat. It won't hurt to make them wait a few more months, even if they seem really interested in it. In fact, it might hurt to give them the food early. Most likely, there would be no problems associated with starting solids early, but there could be. It's definitely something to think about and talk with your doctor about first.

 

[Eisley's Mommy]

If i were you, i would introduce veggies first. If they don't get used to veggies first they will most likely not like them after having had fruits first. it won't hurt him, no, but you've got to think about what is most healthy for the child also.

 

[Away With The Fairies]

Yes, that would be fine. Both my children had yogurt with fruit from that age.