TOP BABY FOODS -2

TOP BABY FOODS -2

Is your baby ready to handle finger foods? Offer him/her whole wheat crackers or a whole wheat toast cut into long strips.

Just starting on purees? Try wheat cereal like farina, Cream of Wheat, or a mix of different grains including wheat

Beans and lentils are a stellar source of protein, iron, folate, zinc and manganese for the whole family, including baby.

Introducing flavors improves the work of tastebuds. Plus, studies show that children who are exposed to a variety of flavors early in life are more adventurous eaters as they grow up. i know you will not add too much chilli, sugar or salt and pepper.

Tofu is a sure-fire way to boost iron, zinc, protein and fat, all crucial nutrients for small children. Bonus: tofu is easy to chew and most kids enjoy its mild flavor.

Learning to enjoy the flavor of plain yogurt is a process that is best started when children are more open-minded about foods, before the age of 18 months. Just make sure to pick a full-fat yogurt because babies and small children need about 50% of the calories in their diet to come from fat.

Current advice offered by the American Academy of Pediatrics suggests exploring other iron- and zinc-rich foods such as dark poultry and red meat, especially if you are breastfeeding. These foods provide the type of iron that is better-absorbed than the type found in plant sources. To improve absorption even further, combine iron-rich foods with those high in vitamin C, like fruit and vegetables. Meatballs and tomato sauce were meant to be together!

- Prathyusha