By Supermarket baby foods are not as healthy as they might look like. According to a recent study, almost two-thirds of these foods are unhealthy due to the deprivation of healthy nutrients. Every parent wants the best start for their child, and feeding them organic food is just the first part of that. Further, read to explore organic baby food’s importance and choices for every age group.
Why Organic Baby Food is the Healthiest Choice
Parents choose organic baby food because they are afraid to expose chemicals and toxins to their loved ones. However, dangerous chemicals like herbicides and pesticides are not used in organic food which can damage a baby’s immune system. So, they are safer for kids and therefore have reduced chance of allergies.
Organically grown goods in nutrition-rich soil have more essential vitamins and minerals than commercial ones. Other than that, they don’t contain hormones which can disturb the overall health of child.
Often, organic food tastes more real and natural, which can get babies to try more fruits and veggies. Moreover, your bond with your child can be stronger if they eat exactly the same food as yours. It promotes health in the long run and thus prevents obesity in children.
Birth to 4-Month-Old Baby Food Guide
Your infant will only consume breast milk or baby formula throughout the first four months. The rooting reflex guides them to the nipple due to their feeding mechanism. Babies get all the nutrition from breast milk/baby formula so don’t introduce solids yet.
Remember, you should also look after your food intake so that you’re getting enough nutrition for you and your baby as well. Pay attention to symptoms like consistent weight gain and frequent wet nappies.
It is advisable to not give your infant solid foods just yet because their digestive system is still growing. American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) suggests because of their sensitive digestive systems, it is best to limit their nutrition to breast milk. If you give them breast milk, they will have all essential nutrients plus it will help you lose weight as well.
Best Organic Baby Food for 4-12 Months
Organic infant food is best divided into three distinct phases, each of which lasts from four to twelve months. What are the signs that it’s time to introduce solid foods to your baby? The warning indicators are as follows:
- Babies can sit up on their own now.
- Your infant expressed an appetite. When you hold your baby while you eat, does he or she open his or her mouth to meet yours?
- Your infant’s weight has increased double since birth.
Stage 1 (4-6 Months): Introduction to Solids
The AAP says you should start with things that only have one ingredient. To rephrase, you shouldn’t feed your infant both carrots and peas. Alternatively, you might offer carrots or peas. When your little one develops a taste for each food, it’s safe to mix them.
To avoid choking, it’s best to start your baby off with pureed foods. Scrambled eggs, mashed avocado, or banana are some more gentle foods that you can provide your infant.
Vegetables, either cooked or pureed, are a popular first food for many parents. It is ultimately your decision as to what you give your infant first. Avoid rice cereal because of arsenic concerns.
Start with 1-2 teaspoons of a single-ingredient pureed food and gradually increase till your child likes it. You can smooth out the puree by mixing it with baby formula or breast milk. When introducing new foods, wait three to five days for any sensitivities.
Stage 2 (6-8 Months): Flavors and Textures
Babies can gradually go to thicker, more texturally complex purees and mashed foods as their oral motor abilities and head/neck control mature. Your infant will start to eat solid foods between 6-8 months. Add different vegetables and fruits.
The iron-fortified cereals, tofu, lentils, and pureed or mashed meats should be part of their diet too. Cheese, cottage cheese, and unsweetened yogurt are other options; however, avoid cow’s milk until after age 1.
Babies learn to develop new tastes and sensations slowly, so it’s best to start with modest portions (about 1-2 teaspoons) and increase to 4-8 tablespoons. Some start eating one or two meals a day around the eighth-month mark.
Stage 3 (8-12 Months): Finger Foods and Family Meals
Thicker mashed meals and very texturized purees are part of this stage of baby eating, which begins around 8 to 12 months of age. Although they are still on the softer side, the items are starting to take the shape of table foods and could even incorporate some finger foods. Babies love to gnaw on little bits of food, and certain items are even small enough for them to grasp with their little fingers.
Some examples of what can be considered early finger foods are avocados, eggs (very soft), meatballs (mashed), grains (rice, rolled oats, etc.), and raspberries (slightly mashed).
Typically, babies start eating three square meals at eight months, with the addition of snacks as their appetites grow. Kids under the age of two shouldn’t consume anything with added sugars, so keep that in mind.
Organic BabyFood for Toddler Stage (12+ Months)
Once your toddler reaches 12 months of age and beyond, they are prepared to eat a greater variety of organic foods. The foods they can eat are mostly the same as the family’s. Give them something to eat every two to three hours so they can fulfill their developing needs. It can be three meals and two or three healthy snacks per day.
Follow their signs when they are hungry or full. Give your toddler a variety of healthful food options and let them choose how much to eat. Picky eating is prevalent during this time. Be patient and continue to introduce different meals. Their tolerance for new tastes will grow with time. This developmental period is all about encouraging self-sufficiency and establishing a positive relationship with food.
With Each Bite, Your Baby Grows, Choose Wisely!
Skilfully navigating the baby feeding stages lays the groundwork for a lifetime of nutritious eating habits. You can instill a lifelong appreciation for nutritious food in your little one and make sure they get all the nutrients by introducing different textures and flavors at the correct periods. By making wise choices now, you’re helping your little one thrive every step of the way.
