Ask The EXPERT: Babies can be given millets

My baby has just turned 6 months, when introducing solid food is recommended. Shall I start giving her any solid food? Please guide what foods/grains are good for infants at this age. Can I give her millets in some form? — Sonia Gupta, Ludhiana

Solid foods can be introduced at 6 months, once your baby shows readiness such as good head control and interest in food. Start with single-ingredient, soft, well-cooked foods like mashed vegetables, fruits, and cereals. Grains such as rice, ragi and oats are suitable initially. Millets can be given in small amounts, preferably soaked, finely ground and well-cooked, like ragi porridge with ghee. Millets are rich in iron, calcium, fibre, and protein, supporting growth and digestion and are also known as nutricereals. Introduce one food at a time and watch for tolerance. — Dr Abhishek Chopra, Neonatologist, Cloudnine Hospitals, Punjabi Bagh, New Delhi

I have been suffering from psoriasis for 10 years. It flares up in winter, though not every year. Many dermatologists have advised sun bath. I have also been prescribed ointments and medicines, but the problem still persists. Please suggest long-term management and treatment. — Rakesh Mishra (36), Ludhiana

Psoriasis requires long-term proactive management rather than reactive treatment during flares. If psoriasis affects a large area and is resistant to topical steroids, here are some advance options (but strictly under medical guidance): Phototherapy (UVB/PUVA 2-3 times/week in winter); oral drugs (apremilast); apply low-potency ointments on affected parts even when skin is clear. Prolonged use of steroid creams can cause skin thinning, so use non-steroidal options. Keep skin moisturised with thick, fragrance-free, oil-based creams immediately after a bath while skin is damp. Use a room humidifier. Manage stress (yoga, breathing exercises) and eat a healthy diet to check inflammation.

— Dr Vikas Sharma, Dermatologist, National Skin hospital, Panchkula

I initially had pain in my left shoulder after heavy meals (overeating). Over time, I experience pain even after eating normal meals. Please advise. — Biragam Singh (18), Rajpura

This kind of pain in the left shoulder after meals is most likely gastro-esophageal at your age. Acid reflux, esophageal spasm, or stress-related hyperacidity can cause such a pain to the shoulder. However, heart and bone/muscle-related causes must be ruled out. Please avoid overeating, eat light, healthy food, manage stress. Best is to meet a doctor for physical evaluation.

— Dr Kanwaljit Singh, Gastroenterologist, Livasa Hospital, Amritsar