A baby girl’s diet is important for her growth and development. During the first six months, breast milk or infant formula provides all the nutrition she needs. Breast milk has natural antibodies to protect her from illness. If breastfeeding isn’t possible, infant formula is a good alternative.
0-6 Months:
- Feed her only breast milk or formula—no water or solid food is needed.
- Babies should feed every 2-3 hours or on demand, when they seem hungry.
- Around 4-6 months, she might show signs that she’s ready for solid foods, like reaching for food or opening her mouth when fed.
6-12 Months:
- At 6 months, start introducing solid foods along with breast milk or formula.
- Begin with pureed foods such as mashed fruits (banana, apple) or vegetables (carrot, sweet potato).
- Offer iron-rich foods like pureed lentils, cereals, or mashed eggs.
- Slowly introduce soft finger foods, like small pieces of boiled vegetables or soft fruits, by 8-9 months.
- Avoid salt, sugar, honey, and choking hazards like whole grapes, nuts, or hard candies.
12 Months and Beyond:
- At 1 year, the baby can try cow’s milk and eat family meals in small, soft portions.
- Offer a variety of foods, including vegetables, fruits, grains, proteins, and dairy.
- Encourage self-feeding with safe foods like small pieces of bread, fruits, or cheese.
- Avoid junk food and sugary drinks. Water is the best drink besides milk.
Remember to introduce new foods slowly and watch for any signs of allergies (like rashes or swelling). The goal is to help the baby develop a taste for healthy foods early on, setting the foundation for lifelong good eating habits.