A common concern of every new mother is her baby's smooth transition to solid foods.
We all know how important it is for children to receive proper nutrition, especially at this crucial stage. Companies that manufacture processed food designed for infants and toddlers are well aware of our desire to provide the best for our children. But are the products they offer really necessary, or even healthy?
Think Outside the Box
A popular baby food brand has a line of processed, microwavable meals marketed specifically for toddlers. The ingredient lists include autolyzed yeast extract, natural flavors, and artificial (caramel) color. Sugar is added, ranging from 3 to 6 grams. Synthetic vitamins are added to give some sort of nutritional value.
Convenience food has never been the healthiest choice for an adult, let alone a growing child. Not only do they contain questionable ingredients, but they introduce a habit of choosing quick and easy calories over wholesome nourishment at an early age.
So what do we feed our little ones?
Prepare a Dinner for Two
Babies naturally show they are ready for solid foods by reaching for your plate, which usually happens at about 4 to 6 months. So, why not share your lunch? Mush up pieces of carrot, potato, or other vegetables. Cut tender meats into tiny pieces. Make sure you give her only a small amount at a time while keeping an eye on her. You don't want mealtime to become a choking hazard!
Whether he is sitting in your lap or in his high chair, let him explore this new territory. Most of his dinner might end up on the floor, smeared all over his face and hair, and stuck in places you thought were unreachable. The desire to mimic Mom and Dad is a natural part of development. Supervise him as he discovers how to scoop up pieces with a spoon. Let him have fun! Mealtimes will be a regular part of life from here on out, so let him start out on a positive note.
Keep a Record of Both the Favorites and the Flops
Always be sure to monitor reactions: did she especially enjoy the scrambled eggs she had for breakfast yesterday? Did he get constipated after he ate that under-ripe banana? Keep a food diary to keep track of any adverse reactions and favorite foods.
Under the influence of an overabundance of advertisements, moms can easily become confused about what to feed their little ones. What we tend to forget is that our ancestors fed their babies long before the colorful box with a cute baby face logo was even invented.
Eat real food. Trust your judgment. Enjoy this milestone in your child's life by sharing--and perhaps wearing--your next meal!
Elizabeth Davis - Liz is mom to a toddler, an avid researcher of issues related to food and diet, and experienced in nutrition and supplementation.
