Is it wise to delay introducing solids?

My breastfed daughter is 5 months old. Because we have a history of asthma on both sides of the family, I don't want to start her on solids until she's between 7 and 8 months old. When I mention this to people, I get some funny remarks. Is it wise to delay introducing solids?

You sound like an informed and thoughtful parent who's on the right track for your daughter's best health. We now recommend delaying the introduction of solids for all infants until they are 6 months old. In families with a strong allergic history this is even more critical. We also advise adding new foods very slowly and delaying certain foods, such as citrus fruits and egg whites, until the second year. Discuss your concerns with your child's GP and set out a meal plan. One option may be using iron-fortified baby cereals, such as rice and barley, beginning at 6 months so she gets the iron, B vitamins and calories she needs at that age without adding other foods with a higher risk of triggering allergies. Delaying all solids until she's eight months old may slow her growth or put her at risk of anaemia. Be sure she gets regular checkups and report any rashes, tummy upsets or other problems to her doctor. As for all those people who think your plan is strange, let them know that you're working with the best current thinking and with the support of a doctor you trust. New knowledge about nutrition has altered the advice we give. Some see eating solids at a young age as a sign of precocity; it's not and is not in the child's best interest in most cases. Stand your ground!