Knowing when to start solids can be a confusing time for parents with so much conflicting information around. There are regularly threads started on this topic so this post is a place to start for parents looking for reliable information.
The current guidelines set by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) of Australia are that solids not be introduced before 6 months of age. Nevertheless there are lots of people, including some medical professionals, who are advising that solids be introduced between 4 -6 months based on a recent study. The following articles help to explain the reasons why there is conflicting advice and the reasons why the WHO and NHMRC have decided to leave their guidelines at 6 months:
Analytical Armadillo: Starting Solids - The Facts Behind Today's Media Hype
Baby Friendly Initiative News
and the short version:
Australian Breastfeeding Association - Confused about introducing solids?
The NHMRC has updated its infant feeding guidelines - HERE - but has not altered the recommendation to exclusively breastfeed for 6 months and continue breastfeeding while introducing food into baby's diet.
These are the guidelines health professionals should be referring to when providing advice and suggestions to parents about feeding their infants.
