Which statement about feeding an infant at 7 months reflects appropriate practice?

• A. Introduce new foods before the bottle
• B. Always feed the bottle before introducing solids
• C. Wait until the first birthday to introduce solids
• D. Avoid solids entirely for the first year

Answer: (C)

The important idea here is how and when to start complementary foods while continuing milk feeding. At about 7 months, infants are typically ready to begin solids in addition to breast milk or formula. The goal is to introduce foods gradually, not replace milk, and to support both nutrition and oral–motor development.

Key points to understand:

• Milk remains the main source of nutrition, with solids added to meet iron and other nutrient needs as the baby grows.

• Readiness cues include curiosity about food, ability to sit with support, and good head control. Start with small amounts of single‑ingredient, pureed foods and watch for any signs of intolerance.

• Practical feeding approach is to offer solids after a milk feeding or as a separate practice, rather than forcing solids before the baby is ready or relying only on the bottle.

Why delaying solids until a full year isn’t ideal for most infants: by around 6–8 months, iron stores begin to deplete, and complementary foods help provide iron and other nutrients important for development. Prolonged avoidance can miss this nutritional window and hinder the development of chewing and swallowing skills.

In short, starting solids around 7 months with continued milk feeding and using a gradual, responsive approach is the appropriate practice.