Your Baby May Dislike Solid Food, But There’s No Need to Panic

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Your Baby May Dislike Solid Food, But There’s No Need to Panic
by Clara Jensen
Updated: May 6, 2021
Originally Published: November 23, 2016

Life can be a wild ride, especially when it comes to introducing solids! My first child absolutely loathed solid food. I mean, it was like offering him something toxic! The first time he encountered a spoonful of food, he recoiled as if it were poison, his little face twisted in sheer horror.

I have photographic evidence of this dramatic moment.

I wasn’t prepared for this reaction. He was a cheerful baby—healthy, chubby, and a great breastfeeder. By about 5 months, he started reaching for our food, and I let him lick my banana or nibble on an apple slice (supervised, of course). He enjoyed those apple slices so much that we decided applesauce would be his first solid food at 6 months.

In hindsight, applesauce might not have been the best choice since it can be a tad sour, but his disdain for food was unwavering. Even when I tried mashed banana a week later, he was still having none of it, making his preferences perfectly clear.

Fortunately, by around 9 months, he began to warm up to food, although he remained quite the picky eater for several years. Now, as he nears 10, he’s finally starting to broaden his culinary horizons!

I vividly recall the stress of those early months—6, 7, and 8—when every spoonful was met with rejection. I was bombarded with advice from all angles, and despite knowing in my heart that he would eat when ready, I couldn’t shake the doubt. Was there something wrong with him—or worse, with me?

Here’s What I Learned from My Experience

So, to any parents feeling the struggle of feeding their little ones, here’s what I learned from my experience, along with some wisdom from having crossed to the other side:

1. Solid Food Readiness Varies
   There’s no magical age when every baby will embrace solids. The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests starting around 6 months, but those are just guidelines. If your baby turns away from food, it might just not be the right time—and that’s perfectly okay.
2. Experiment with Textures and Flavors
   Every baby has their own preferences! While some might reject purees, others may want to dive into finger foods right away. Try different flavors and textures, keeping an eye out for allergies. This way, you can help them explore what they like while navigating this new phase together.
3. Trust Your Baby Over External Advice
   Everyone has an opinion on when your baby should start eating. But guess who knows best? Your baby! If they’re not interested, there’s often a good reason. Respect their preferences, and remember that they won’t be heading off to college without a taste for veggies!
4. Investigate Genuine Feeding Issues
   In rare cases, there may be real feeding issues at play, such as swallowing difficulties or allergies. If you suspect something might be wrong, don’t hesitate to consult a medical professional. If they dismiss your concerns, seek a second opinion—after all, no one knows your baby better than you do.
5. Avoid the Comparison Trap
   Every child develops at their own pace. Just like some kids walk at 9 months while others take their first steps at 18 months, they’ll all start eating solids eventually. If your baby is a late bloomer, try to remain calm—it’s perfectly normal.
6. Continue Breastfeeding or Bottle Feeding
   Health organizations recommend breastfeeding or formula feeding for at least a year, even after introducing solids. These milks provide essential nutrients that baby food alone might not, so let them fill the gaps while your baby figures out solid food.
7. Opt for Nutrient-Dense Foods
   If your baby is a picky eater, prioritize solid foods that are high in nutrition. Avocado and sweet potato are far more nutritious than rice cereal. Aim for a colorful variety—whatever your little one will tolerate!
8. Patience is Key
   Watching your child take their time with solid foods can be frustrating. Just remember that the vast majority of babies will eventually eat—it may take some time, but they will get there. Allow them to explore, keep the atmosphere relaxed, and breathe through the process.

If my little one, who once recoiled in horror from solid food, could eventually embrace it, your baby will too. Just keep in mind that soon enough, you’ll be wondering how to keep up with their insatiable appetite!

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Summary

Introducing solids to your baby can be a daunting task, especially if they seem disinterested. However, each child develops at their own pace, and it’s important to trust your instincts and your baby’s preferences. Experiment with different textures and flavors, and remember that breastfeeding or formula feeding will continue to provide essential nutrients during this transition. Most importantly, be patient—your baby will eventually take to solid foods, and soon enough, they’ll be eating you out of house and home!