Question
A 7-month-old infant has been eating white rice porridge for two consecutive months, and the parent inquires whether spices can be added to the child’s food.
Answer
According to pediatric expert advice, infants can start gradually introducing complementary foods at around four months of age. When introducing new foods, it is important to use only one type of ingredient at a time and wait until the infant adapts before adding another. The timing for introducing complementary foods should not be too early or too late, as this may have adverse effects on the infant’s health. Introducing complementary foods too early may lead to vomiting, diarrhea, and digestive disorders due to an immature digestive system. Introducing them too late may result in malnutrition in the infant, or even lead to the child refusing to eat.