What type of complementary foods should be offered to infants starting at 6 months of age?

At around 6 months of age, infants begin the transition to solid foods, and it is crucial to introduce complementary foods that meet their nutritional needs. Iron-containing complementary foods are especially important during this stage because infants' iron stores, which are typically sufficient for the first six months, start to deplete thereafter.

Breast milk or formula alone does not provide adequate iron for infants past this age, as they need additional sources to support growth and development. Iron is essential for the formation of hemoglobin, which carries oxygen in the blood, and for cognitive development during this critical growth phase. Examples of iron-rich complementary foods include pureed meats, fortified infant cereals, legumes, and mashed beans.

Other types of foods, such as fruits and vegetables, are also encouraged but should not be the sole focus when introducing solid foods. While they provide essential vitamins and fiber, their low iron content necessitates that iron-rich options are prioritized to meet the infant's nutritional requirements. Similarly, low-calorie snacks and dairy products typically do not provide the necessary iron and may not be appropriate for infants at this stage, especially before 12 months of age for whole milk.

Thus, emphasizing the introduction of iron-containing complementary foods is critical to ensure infants receive the necessary