Question
The baby has been crying and fussing a lot lately, and doesn’t eat much. How should a 5-month-old baby be fed rice cereal correctly?
Answer
When a baby reaches five months old, it’s time to introduce rice cereal as a complementary food. It is recommended to choose iron-fortified rice cereal, as this stage is when the baby needs to start supplementing with iron. Initially, mix the rice cereal with a small amount of formula milk or breast milk to allow the baby to get used to it. Gradually increase the amount of rice cereal while observing the baby’s digestion. Additionally, the baby may be unfamiliar with new foods and might experience temporary crying or fussiness, which is a normal reaction. If the baby continues to be uncomfortable, it is advisable to consult a doctor.