Teething is one of the most challenging milestones for babies—and for parents too. It usually starts around 6 months of age, though it can vary. During this phase, your little one may become fussy, drool excessively, chew on anything nearby, and even lose appetite.
The right teething foods not only offer relief but also ensure your baby gets adequate nutrition for growth and development. In this guide, we’ll explore soothing, nutritious food ideas, safety tips, and feeding techniques ideal for teething babies.
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When Do Babies Start Teething?
Teething often begins between 4 to 7 months of age. The lower front teeth (central incisors) are usually the first to appear, followed by upper front teeth.
Common Signs of Teething:
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Increased drooling
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Irritability and crying
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Swollen or sensitive gums
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Biting and chewing behavior
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Mild fever or disrupted sleep
If fever is above 101°F or symptoms last longer than a few days, consult a pediatrician.
What Are the Best Teething Foods for Babies?
Offering cool, soft, and nutrient-rich foods is key during teething. These soothe sore gums while keeping your baby nourished.
✅ Top Teething Food Categories:
1. Chilled Purees & Soft Fruits
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Applesauce (unsweetened)
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Mashed banana
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Chilled pear puree
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Steamed and mashed sweet potato
These are soft, naturally sweet, and gentle on sore gums.
2. Frozen Milk Pops or Puree Popsicles
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Breastmilk or formula pops
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Frozen fruit puree (banana, mango, etc.)
Serve in mesh feeders or silicone molds to prevent choking.
3. Hard But Safe Finger Foods (for older babies)
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Chilled cucumber sticks
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Cold carrot sticks (steamed first and chilled)
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Teething biscuits (low-sugar, baby-safe)
Use only for 8+ months babies with good chewing coordination.
4. Yogurt and Dairy-Based Options
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Whole milk yogurt (unsweetened)
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Chilled cottage cheese
These are cooling and rich in calcium and probiotics to support digestion.
5. Oatmeal with Cold Fruit Puree
A bowl of warm oats topped with cold apple or pear puree gives both comfort and relief.
️ Teething Food Safety Tips
While offering solid food during teething, safety is critical. Babies may chew aggressively and be at risk of choking.
Key Safety Rules:
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Always supervise feeding
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Offer soft or mashable textures
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Avoid raw, hard vegetables or fruits before 9–10 months
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Use silicone feeders or mesh bags for frozen items
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Cut everything into small, safe portions
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends avoiding hard raw foods for teething babies under 12 months due to choking hazards.
DIY Cold Teething Food Ideas
Homemade cold snacks are both soothing and healthy:
Fruit Ice Cubes:
Blend banana + mango → pour into baby-safe ice molds → freeze and serve in mesh feeder.
Frozen Yogurt Bites:
Use a piping bag to dot yogurt on parchment → freeze → store in a ziplock → serve 1–2 as treats.
Milk Pops:
Freeze breastmilk or formula in small molds → wrap with a cloth → let baby chew under supervision.
Sample Teething Food Plan (6–9 Months)
| Time of Day | Teething Meal Idea |
|---|---|
| Breakfast | Mashed banana + oatmeal (lukewarm) |
| Mid-Morning | Breastmilk/formula + chilled yogurt |
| Lunch | Pear puree + steamed carrot mash |
| Afternoon | Frozen fruit cubes in mesh feeder |
| Dinner | Rice cereal + mashed sweet potato |
Rotate different fruits and textures to avoid boredom.
Should You Continue Breastfeeding or Bottle-Feeding?
Absolutely. During teething, many babies refuse solids or become cranky. Keep offering breastmilk or formula to meet calorie and hydration needs.
Tip: If baby refuses bottle or breast due to gum pain, try chilled nipple or breastmilk pops to soothe before feeding.
Nutritional Support During Teething
Even if appetite reduces, ensure baby gets:
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Iron: Sweet potato, fortified cereal, or lentils
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Calcium: Yogurt, cheese
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Vitamin C: Apples, carrots, mango
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Zinc: Egg yolk, chicken (if age-appropriate)
Avoid citrus or acidic fruits (like pineapple or orange) if baby is fussy or has sore gums.
❓ FAQ
1. What can I give my 6-month-old for teething pain?
Try cold apple puree, frozen breastmilk pops, or mesh feeders with chilled banana.
2. Are teething biscuits safe?
For babies 8 months+ with good chewing, low-sugar teething biscuits can help. Avoid before 6–7 months.
3. Can teething cause loss of appetite?
Yes, mild discomfort may reduce hunger. Keep offering milk and soft, chilled foods.
4. Is yogurt good for teething babies?
Yes. Cold, unsweetened whole milk yogurt is soothing and nutritious.
5. Can I offer meat or chicken during teething?
You can offer well-pureed chicken if your baby is over 7 months and tolerates it. Serve lukewarm, not hot.
✅ Conclusion
Teething is a natural but tricky phase in your baby’s growth journey. With the right selection of cool, nutritious, and soft-textured foods, you can ease your baby’s discomfort and maintain their nutritional needs.
Remember: Always supervise meals, introduce one food at a time, and follow safe preparation techniques. As their little teeth emerge, your baby will begin learning to chew, explore new textures, and enjoy eating — a beautiful milestone to cherish.
Trusted Source-https://www.healthychildren.org/
