Let’s Chat About Why You Should Wait Until Six Months to Introduce Solid Foods
There’s a lot of conflicting advice when it comes to starting solids, and if you’re a new parent, you’ve probably heard recommendations all across the board. Some doctors say four months is fine, while others say to wait until six. So, what’s the real answer?
Let’s break it down: Your baby’s digestive system is not fully developed before six months of age. Their gut isn’t “sealed” yet, meaning it’s still permeable and can allow food particles and bacteria to pass through, increasing the risk of food sensitivities, allergies, and digestive issues. Additionally, babies don’t produce all the digestive enzymes necessary to break down and absorb solid foods efficiently until around six months or later. Introducing solids too early can lead to gas, constipation, and nutrient malabsorption—things no parent (or baby) wants to deal with.
But the consequences of early solids go beyond just short-term discomfort. Research has shown that feeding babies solid foods too soon can have lifelong health effects. A weakened gut barrier in infancy has been linked to an increased risk of autoimmune diseases, food allergies, digestive disorders like IBS, and even metabolic conditions such as obesity and type 2 diabetes later in life. The gut microbiome, which plays a critical role in immune function and overall health, is still developing in these early months. Introducing food too soon can disrupt this delicate balance, leading to long-term health challenges.
Despite what some pediatricians may say, the truth is that most doctors are not trained in nutrition. Their education focuses primarily on diagnosing and treating illnesses, not the nuances of infant feeding and gut health. Unfortunately, this means some recommendations—like starting solids at four months—are often outdated or based on convenience rather than what’s biologically best for your baby.
So, what should you do? Trust your baby’s development. Breastmilk or formula provides everything they need in these early months, ensuring they grow and thrive while their digestive system matures. The safest approach is to wait until at least six months and make sure all signs of readiness are present:
✔️ Sitting unassisted
✔️ Loss of the tongue-thrust reflex (so they don’t push food out of their mouth)
✔️ Genuine interest in food (grabbing at it, watching you eat, etc.)
Rushing into solids too early can do more harm than good, with potential consequences that last far beyond infancy. By waiting until your baby is truly ready, you’re giving their gut time to develop properly, supporting a stronger immune system, better digestion, and overall long-term health. When the time is right, your baby will be able to handle solid foods safely and comfortably—making mealtimes a more enjoyable and beneficial experience for everyone.