At what age should solid foods be introduced to an infant's diet?

Introducing solid foods to an infant's diet is typically recommended around 4 to 6 months of age. This timeline aligns with several developmental milestones, including the ability to sit up with minimal support, the loss of the tongue-thrust reflex, and an increased interest in food. By this age, infants are generally ready to transition from a diet solely consisting of breast milk or formula to include solid foods, which provide essential nutrients that may begin to be insufficient in milk-only diets.

Starting solids too early, such as at 2 to 4 months, may increase the risk of choking and can lead to gastrointestinal issues since the infant's digestive system may not be fully developed. Conversely, waiting too long, such as until 6 to 8 months or later, may delay the introduction of essential nutrients and can potentially impact an infant's willingness to try new foods and develop healthy eating habits. Thus, the 4 to 6 month window strikes a balance, allowing for safe introduction while meeting nutritional needs.