And how to start solids properly.

Starting solids is one of the biggest transitions in your baby’s first year — and one of the most misunderstood. Here are 3 things we wish we’d known before diving in.

**1. Changing Nutrition Needs**

Between 6–12 months old, your child’s macro and micronutrient needs change
**more than any other time in their life.**

**What changes from 6–8 months, vs. 9–12 months?**

From 6–8 months, **protein** intake is relatively low, and gradually increases from 9–12 months.

**Carbs and fat** intake remains generally the same, but the source begins to change from breastmilk and formula, to grains, fruits, and vegetables.

*Breastmilk & formula still contribute significantly to fat & calorie intake from 9–12 months.

**2. Natural Iron Stores**

Babies are born with natural iron stores that start to deplete between 4–6 months.

Introducing iron-rich foods early helps promote **brain development** and **immune system** support.

**3. Micronutrients**

Around 9 months, babies’ micronutrient requirements skyrocket.

**Zinc** = immune support

**Vitamin D** = bone development

**Vitamin B12** = brain development

**What foods support these changes?**

Common foods that support the increased requirement for micronutrients include:
**beef, chicken, salmon, lentils, chickpeas, oats, cheese, whole yogurt, and eggs.**

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