When should I feed my baby infant cereal?
The time to introduce a baby to infant cereal varies based on their rate of development, according to the AAP. Indicators they might be ready include holding their head up on their own, opening their mouth for food and being able to move food from a spoon to their throat. Babies are typically ready for solid foods at about 4 months of age, which is when they often double their birth weight and weigh at least 13 pounds.
What type of baby cereal should I feed my infant?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends feeding your baby a variety of fortified infant cereals, such as oat, barely and multi-grain. Avoid feeding your baby solely rice cereal due to its potential exposure to arsenic. While other crops like vegetables and fruits can also contain trace amounts of arsenic—a natural element that can be found in air, water and soil—rice tends to absorb more of it. A variety of grains can help limit that exposure.
How should I feed my baby infant cereal?
Follow the instructions on the product label.
“Pediatricians usually recommend to mix 1 tablespoon of the cereal with 3 to 5 tablespoons of breastmilk or formula until it’s a ‘soupy’ consistency, and start by giving your baby about a teaspoon,” says Dr. DiMaggio. ”If they want more, feed them until they turn away from the food and stop eating.”
Should I feed baby cereal in a bottle?
The AAP doesn’t recommend putting baby cereal in a bottle, as it can be a choking hazard. However, the organization does note cereal in a bottle might be recommended if your baby has reflux, so it’s best to check with your doctor.
