Complementary feeding (CF) is the process when breast milk or infant formula alone is no longer sufficient to meet an infant's nutritional needs, requiring the introduction of other foods and liquids. CF is a critical period in human life, influencing epigenetic factors that affect development from infancy to adulthood. It is deeply influenced by cultural, traditional, and family practices. This review discusses traditional CF practices, innovative approaches like baby-led weaning (BLW) and plant-based weaning, and their effects on the risk of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). It also addresses common misunderstandings and challenges faced by pediatricians in CF. Healthcare professionals should support parents' choices while ensuring adequate growth, neurodevelopment, and healthy eating habits. CF should start no earlier than 4 months and no later than 7 months. Traditionally, it began at 6 months, but guidelines now suggest it can start as early as 4–6 months based on the infant's development. CF involves introducing purees, then semisolid and finger foods, eventually aligning with the family's dietary model. Traditional CF includes foods like vegetable broth, meat/fish purees, and fruits. The macronutrient needs of infants aged 6–24 months are outlined, with a focus on energy, protein, and micronutrients. CF practices vary globally, influenced by cultural, socioeconomic, and educational factors. Early CF introduction may be necessary for infants at risk of iron deficiency or when breastfeeding is not possible. However, studies show no significant impact of early CF on iron status in healthy infants. Iron-rich foods like meat and fortified cereals help prevent iron deficiency. Zinc and vitamin D are also important, with vitamin D supplementation recommended for all infants. For preterm infants, CF should start between 5–8 months or at least 3 months of corrected age. Individualized approaches are necessary due to the infants' unique needs. CF in preterm infants requires careful monitoring of nutritional intake and micronutrient status. BLW and on-demand feeding are alternative approaches. BLW involves allowing infants to self-feed, while on-demand feeding is based on the infant's cues. Both have been associated with better eating behaviors and lower risk of food fussiness. However, BLW may increase choking risks, requiring parental supervision. Plant-based diets, including vegan and vegetarian, are becoming more common. These diets require careful planning to ensure adequate intake of nutrients like vitamin B12, iron, and DHA. Vegan infants need supplementation, while vegetarian diets may be appropriate with proper planning. CF practices significantly influence the risk of NCDs, including obesity and type 1 diabetes. Early CF timing, type of milk, and food quality play roles in these risks. Studies suggest that early CF may increase obesity risk, while BLW and other approaches may reduce it. However, more research is needed to fully understand these relationships. Overall, CF is a critical period that requires carefulComplementary feeding (CF) is the process when breast milk or infant formula alone is no longer sufficient to meet an infant's nutritional needs, requiring the introduction of other foods and liquids. CF is a critical period in human life, influencing epigenetic factors that affect development from infancy to adulthood. It is deeply influenced by cultural, traditional, and family practices. This review discusses traditional CF practices, innovative approaches like baby-led weaning (BLW) and plant-based weaning, and their effects on the risk of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). It also addresses common misunderstandings and challenges faced by pediatricians in CF. Healthcare professionals should support parents' choices while ensuring adequate growth, neurodevelopment, and healthy eating habits. CF should start no earlier than 4 months and no later than 7 months. Traditionally, it began at 6 months, but guidelines now suggest it can start as early as 4–6 months based on the infant's development. CF involves introducing purees, then semisolid and finger foods, eventually aligning with the family's dietary model. Traditional CF includes foods like vegetable broth, meat/fish purees, and fruits. The macronutrient needs of infants aged 6–24 months are outlined, with a focus on energy, protein, and micronutrients. CF practices vary globally, influenced by cultural, socioeconomic, and educational factors. Early CF introduction may be necessary for infants at risk of iron deficiency or when breastfeeding is not possible. However, studies show no significant impact of early CF on iron status in healthy infants. Iron-rich foods like meat and fortified cereals help prevent iron deficiency. Zinc and vitamin D are also important, with vitamin D supplementation recommended for all infants. For preterm infants, CF should start between 5–8 months or at least 3 months of corrected age. Individualized approaches are necessary due to the infants' unique needs. CF in preterm infants requires careful monitoring of nutritional intake and micronutrient status. BLW and on-demand feeding are alternative approaches. BLW involves allowing infants to self-feed, while on-demand feeding is based on the infant's cues. Both have been associated with better eating behaviors and lower risk of food fussiness. However, BLW may increase choking risks, requiring parental supervision. Plant-based diets, including vegan and vegetarian, are becoming more common. These diets require careful planning to ensure adequate intake of nutrients like vitamin B12, iron, and DHA. Vegan infants need supplementation, while vegetarian diets may be appropriate with proper planning. CF practices significantly influence the risk of NCDs, including obesity and type 1 diabetes. Early CF timing, type of milk, and food quality play roles in these risks. Studies suggest that early CF may increase obesity risk, while BLW and other approaches may reduce it. However, more research is needed to fully understand these relationships. Overall, CF is a critical period that requires careful