How much should my baby eat?
Starting solids is such an exciting milestone in your baby’s journey! But if you’re wondering “How much should my baby actually eat?” — you’re not alone. Many parents worry about portion sizes, how much their baby should be eating, and whether they’re getting enough nutrients. The good news? Babies are naturally great at regulating their own intake, and solids in the beginning are more about exploration than how much they eat.
Start light and follow your baby’s lead
When introducing solids (usually around 6 months, when they show the developmental signs of readiness), remember that food is also about exploration and learning! Breast milk or formula will still be your baby’s primary source of nutrition, so solid foods are meant to complement (not replace) milk feeds at this stage.
At first, babies may only take a few tiny bites (or licks) of food. That’s completely normal. They’re learning new textures, practicing chewing, and developing the coordination needed to move food around their mouth. Expect small amounts, think 1 to 2 teaspoons to start or one piece of finger food. Over time, they’ll gradually increase how much they eat as they get more comfortable with different flavours and textures.
Building up gradually
Here’s a rough guideline of what to expect as your baby progresses:
6-7 Months:
Offer solids once a day, after a milk feed when they’re happy and alert. It is also fine to skip a day here or there to let their digestive system catch up (and give you a break).
7-9 Months:
Increase to 2 meals per day, after they have had their breast milk/formula. Watch your babies cues for when they are ready to eat more.
9-12 Months:
Move toward 3 meals, and remember that breastmilk/formula still takes priority.
12+ months:
By now your mini should be on 3 meals and you might want to offer snacks in between. By 12 months, nutritious family meals takes priority over breastmilk/formula, however it is still beneficial to continue breastfeeding for as long as you wish. The World Health Organisation recommends breastfeeding up to two years or beyond.
Trust your mini’s appetite
Babies’ appetites change daily, just like ours! Some days they’ll eat more, some days less—and that’s okay. Respect their hunger and fullness cues:
Opening their mouth, reaching for food = Hungry!
Turning their head, pushing food away = Full!
Forcing food or worrying about every bite can create stress around mealtime. Instead, make it enjoyable. Sit together, eat as a family, and let your baby explore at their own pace.
Focus on nourishing and nutritious foods
No matter how much your baby eats, offering nutrient-dense foods is key. Click here to find out what foods to offer your baby to meet their high nutrient needs.
So how much should they eat?
There’s no exact amount your baby should eat, every baby is different! Start small, offer a variety of nourishing foods, and follow your baby’s hunger cue’s. And most importantly, enjoy the journey!