You can generally introduce curd (yogurt) to babies from 7 months of age.
Understanding Curd for Babies
While plain cow's milk is typically not recommended for babies under one year due to its proteins being difficult for their immature digestive systems to process, curd is a different story. The crucial difference lies in the culturing process used to make curd.
During this process, beneficial bacteria break down some of the milk proteins and lactose, making curd easier to digest than uncultured cow's milk. This is why, despite being a dairy product, curd can be introduced earlier.
Here's a quick comparison based on the reference:
| Food Item | Recommended Age for Introduction | Key Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Curd/Yogurt | From 7 months | Made with a culturing process, aiding digestion |
| Cow's Milk | Not recommended before 1 year | Proteins are hard for babies to digest |
Key Considerations
- Always ensure the curd is plain, unsweetened, and made from whole milk to provide necessary fats for baby's development.
- Introduce new foods one at a time to monitor for any allergic reactions.
- Consult your pediatrician for personalized advice regarding your baby's diet.
