What are the risks of starting solids too early or too late?

I understand your concerns about starting solids at the right time — this is a question every parent grapples with.

Risks of starting too early (before 4 months):

• Baby's digestive system hasn't matured yet, increasing allergy risk
• Increased vulnerability to intestinal infections
• Reduces intake of breast milk or formula, decreasing essential nutrients
• Swallowing reflex isn't fully developed, increasing choking risk

Risks of starting too late (after 7 months):

• Iron and zinc deficiencies can develop
• Rejecting solid foods becomes more common (swallowing difficulty, texture sensitivity)
• Delayed development of chewing skills
• Higher risk of selective eating behavior long-term

The ideal timing: The World Health Organization (WHO) and the Turkish Ministry of Health recommend 6 months. But be flexible — the period between the end of the 5th month and beginning of 7th month is a flexible window where you can adjust based on small readiness signs your baby shows (sitting up with support, good head control, reaching for spoons and bringing them to mouth).

Instead of worrying about missing the window, focus on this: If your baby is around 6 months and showing the readiness signs mentioned above, you're on time. You don't have to start exactly at 6 months — there's a flexible window of a couple of weeks that adapts to your rhythm and your baby's. Your pediatrician can also guide you here.