As a new parent, ensuring your baby gets proper nutrition is essential for their healthy growth and development. Establishing healthy eating habits in infancy sets the foundation for a lifetime of good health.

Here are some valuable tips to help you navigate the world of infant nutrition and make informed choices.

1. Breastfeeding or Formula Feeding: Decide What Works Best for You and Your Baby

Both breastfeeding and formula feeding provide essential nutrients for your baby’s growth. Breast milk is rich in antibodies and perfectly tailored to meet your baby’s nutritional needs.

If you choose to breastfeed, try to exclusively breastfeed for the first six months. If breastfeeding is not possible, formula feeding is a safe and nutritious alternative.

2. Introduce Solid Foods at the Right Time

The World Health Organization recommends introducing solid foods to infants around six months of age. Before this age, breast milk or formula should be the main source of nutrition.

Introducing solids too early can increase the risk of allergies and digestive issues. Observe your baby’s readiness for solids, such as sitting up with support, showing interest in food, and the ability to swallow.

3. Start with Single-Ingredient Purees

When introducing solid foods, start with single-ingredient purees such as mashed fruits or vegetables. This helps you identify any potential food allergies or intolerances.

Begin with small spoonfuls and gradually increase the quantity as your baby adapts to new flavors and textures.

4. Offer a Variety of Nutritious Foods

As your baby progresses with solid foods, offer a variety of nutrient-rich options. Include fruits, vegetables, grains, and proteins such as lean meats, beans, and tofu.

Varying their diet exposes them to different flavors and nutrients, promoting healthy eating habits in the long run.

5. Be Mindful of Allergenic Foods

Introduce allergenic foods one at a time. Common allergenic foods include eggs, fish, peanuts, tree nuts, soy, and wheat. Monitor your baby for any signs of allergies or adverse reactions when introducing these foods.

If your family has a history of allergies or your baby shows signs of allergies, consult their pediatrician before introducing these foods.

6. Avoid Added Sugars and Salt

Avoid adding sugars or salt to your baby’s food. Babies have a natural preference for sweetness, and adding sugar may contribute to the development of a sweet tooth. Additionally, excess salt can strain immature kidneys.

Focus on the natural flavors of foods to encourage a wholesome palate.

7. Encourage Self-Feeding

As your baby grows and develops fine motor skills, encourage self-feeding. Offer age-appropriate finger foods that are soft and easily chewable. This helps develop their hand-eye coordination and allows them to explore different textures independently.

8. Practice Responsive Feeding

Responsive feeding involves recognizing and responding to your baby’s hunger and fullness cues. This promotes a healthy relationship with food and helps them develop self-regulation.

Offer food when your baby shows signs of hunger and stop feeding when they indicate they are full.

9. Avoid Overfeeding

Be mindful of portion sizes and avoid overfeeding your baby. Babies have small stomachs, and forcing them to finish a bottle or plate may lead to overeating and weight gain. Pay attention to their cues of satiety and respect their natural appetite.

10. Be Patient and Persistent

Introducing solids and establishing healthy eating habits takes time and patience. It is common for babies to reject certain foods or show preferences. Don’t give up; continue offering a variety of foods and flavors.

It may take multiple attempts before they accept new tastes.

Remember, every baby is unique, and it’s important to consult your pediatrician for personalized recommendations and guidance specific to your baby’s needs.