Giving solid foods to a baby before he or she can cope with them, can increase the risk of infection and allergies.

By six months, babies are physically ready to start eating solid foods. At this age, babies can sit up with support, control their heads and move food around their mouths. Their digestive and immune systems are also stronger and they are often interested in food and want to chew.

At this age babies need more than milk alone. If your baby still seems to be hungry on their usual milk feeds before six months, try offering more milk at each bottle feed if they are finishing the bottle and seem to be looking for more. If you are breastfeeding, try feeding more often.

When should I start weaning my baby onto solids?

The Department of Health recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months