Introducing Solids...

This has been on my mind recently.

Tessa has shown signs of drinking less and less milk lately. Not sure if this is a sign of her readiness for solids, but I am definitely concerned that her growth will be impeded due to her lack of appetite and wondered if introducing solids will help.

As a rule of thumb, we can start introducing solids as early as when she reaches four months old. But many experts have advised against introducing solids too early, most believe that solids should not be introduced until at least 17 weeks after your baby’s due date as a young baby’s digestive and immune system is not sufficiently developed before this time. (Tessa will be 17 weeks old this Friday). However, on the other hand, if weaning is delayed until after six months, some babies can have difficulty eating foods with lumps. Also as your baby gets older she will need more iron and nutrients than milk alone can provide.

I also don't wish to be in a hurry to wean Tessa onto solids because I strongly believe that milk provides all the nutrients she needs for the first 6 months or so. But the problem now is that she's drinking less.

I was told that there is actually no ‘right’ age to introduce solids, as every baby is different. A mother should just follow her instincts because no two babies are the same and mommy usually knows best.

Hmm... do I?