What nutritional strategy should be employed for infants starting at 6 months?

At around 6 months of age, infants typically begin to require more than just breast milk or formula to meet their nutritional needs. The introduction of pureed foods is essential at this stage, as it helps to provide additional nutrients that are increasingly needed for growth and development. Breast milk or formula alone may not provide enough iron and other necessary nutrients as the infant’s iron stores start to diminish.

The process of introducing pureed foods also helps with the development of oral motor skills and enables infants to experience different tastes and textures, which is vital for their acceptance of various foods later on. Infants should ideally begin with iron-fortified cereals or pureed fruits and vegetables to cater to these needs.

While breastfeeding can continue alongside the introduction of solids, transitioning to solid foods is a fundamental step in an infant’s dietary progression at this age. Introducing cow's milk too early (before 12 months) is not advised as it may lead to iron deficiency and can also introduce potential allergens. Starting solid foods correctly sets the foundation for healthy eating patterns in the future.