🥄 What Are the Best First Foods for Babies?

Gentle Guidance from Lisa Rietzke, RN & Baby Sleep Specialist

Introducing solids is a major milestone in your baby’s development—and it often comes with questions, concerns, and conflicting advice. From baby-led weaning to purees, every parent wants to make sure they’re giving their baby the best first foods to support healthy growth, happy tummies, and peaceful sleep. 😴

At Sleepytime by Lisa, founder Lisa Rietzke, RN, brings her professional experience and compassionate care to help families navigate early childhood transitions—from infant sleep training to feeding routines—with confidence.

🍎 When Should I Start Introducing Solid Foods?

Most pediatricians recommend introducing solids between 4–6 months, depending on your baby’s readiness. Here are a few signs your baby might be ready:

• Can sit upright with support

• Has good head and neck control

• Shows interest in food (e.g., watches you eat)

• No longer pushes food out with their tongue (tongue-thrust reflex)

Lisa reminds parents that every baby is different, and readiness—not age alone—should guide the transition. 💡

🥑 Best First Foods for Babies (Baby-Led Weaning or Purees)

Whether you’re choosing to puree or try baby-led weaning, here are some nutrient-rich, gentle-on-the-tummy foods to start with:

1. 🥑 Avocado

• Packed with healthy fats and iron

• Soft, mashable, and easy to digest

• Great for brain development

2. 🍠 Sweet Potatoes

• Rich in beta-carotene (Vitamin A)

• Naturally sweet and easy to puree or cube

3. 🍌 Bananas

• Great source of potassium and fiber

• Mash with a fork for the perfect first bite

4. 🥦 Steamed Broccoli

• Ideal for baby-led weaning (cut into florets)

• High in Vitamin C, calcium, and iron

5. 🍎 Apples (Steamed & Mashed)

• Loaded with antioxidants and fiber

• Easy to digest when cooked and mashed

6. 🐟 Iron-Fortified Baby Cereal

• Often recommended as a starter food to supplement breastmilk or formula

💬 Tip from Lisa: Keep a food journal during the first few weeks to track any reactions and establish a healthy routine.

🍼 Lisa Rietzke’s Mission: Nourishing Sleep & Health from the Start

At Sleepytime by Lisa, Lisa Rietzke combines her RN expertise, sleep science, and parental compassion to guide families through one of the most important journeys of early parenthood. From feeding support to infant and toddler sleep training, Lisa creates customized, realistic plans to help your baby thrive—and help you rest.

✨ Whether you’re struggling with midnight feedings, nap refusals, or just want expert reassurance, Lisa’s holistic approach focuses on:

• Developmentally appropriate routines

• Gentle, effective strategies

• Parental confidence & empowerment

📍 Serving Chicago, Milwaukee, and surrounding areas
📞 Book a FREE sleep consult with Lisa: www.sleepytimebylisa.com

✅ Quick Tips for Starting Solids

• Introduce one food at a time, every 3–5 days, to monitor allergies

• Avoid honey, cow’s milk, and added salt or sugar before age 1

• Stay close and supervise to prevent choking

• Offer solids after nursing or bottle feeding (in the beginning)

💤 How Feeding Impacts Baby Sleep

Did you know? Nutrient-rich foods help support restful sleep cycles. When babies are well-fed and digestion is smooth, they’re more likely to nap longer and sleep better at night. That’s why feeding and sleep go hand-in-hand in Lisa’s gentle approach to whole-baby wellness.

💖 Ready to Start Solids and Get Some Sleep?

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, you’re not alone. Book a free 15-minute consult with Lisa Rietzke today and discover how to support your baby’s health—with confidence and calm.

👉 Schedule Now