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baby eating
Introducing solid food is an exciting time for parents and babies. Solids must be introduced slowly and usually after a baby is 4 months old. Here are some suggestions for foods that have many wonderful nutrients to introduce to baby when she is ready.
- Bananas are a great source of carbohydrates which provide little ones with energy. They also aid in digestion because they are a source of fiber. Young babies should eat bananas mashed while older babies can handle them chopped as finger food.
- Sweet potatoes provide beta-carotene, potassium, vitamin C and fiber. When pureed these healthy spuds are a great first food since they are so sweet. They also mix well with other veggies that have a stronger flavor such as broccoli. Just remember not to mix anything with them when first introducing them.
- Avocados can be served to baby when they are ripe. They are easy to peel and mash and contain more protein than any other fruit. They also are rich in monounsaturated fat (the good fat).
- Broccoli has a lot of vitamin C and is also a good source of iron, fiber, folic acid and potassium. Broccoli retains more of its nutrition if it is steamed or microwaved. For young babies it needs to be pureed and for older ones they may enjoy eating the tops off of the little "trees".
- Carrots have large amounts of beta-carotene. When cooked they have a sweet flavor which is appealing to babies.
- Blueberries have the highest anti-oxidant capacity of any fresh fruit making them a great fruit for baby. It is recommended that they be introduced between 6 and 9 months of age. Young babies can eat them pureed while older babies can have them chopped up as finger food.
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