7 Superfoods For Your Baby Needs

1. Superfoods for your baby

Superfoods are foods that are filled with more beneficial nutrients and vitamins than other options. In today’s world, where obesity is a real concern for many children and adults, it is never too early to set your baby on a path to healthy eating for the rest of their lives, and these superfoods can do that. Not only will these foods help you teach your baby healthy habits one they start on solid foods, they also provide unique benefits for his or her body.

2. Avocados

Avocados are filled with fat, but don’t worry, it is the good kind — monounsaturated fats are “good” fats that are important for your baby’s diet. They also help stabilize your infant’s blood sugar because they contain soluble fiber. Since avocado is so easy to mash, it is a fairly easy option for babies, and you can add some interest as your child grows by making guacamole to dip veggies in.

3. Bananas

Bananas are a very economical superfood. For a low price, you can give your baby a great source of potassium, protein, and numerous other vitamins, as well as water and fiber. For babies who are just being introduced to the world of solid foods, mashing bananas up is a great option. For little ones who are ready for more interesting meals, you can blend frozen bananas with any number of other ingredients to create delicious smoothies.

4. Blueberries

Your baby’s brain is developing rapidly at this stage in life, and blueberries, which are packed with antioxidants, can improve brain function. Also, if your baby learns to love blueberries now as he or she is just starting out with solids, they will benefit from the nutrients that will help protect them from heart disease over time. Be sure to cut them up into a manageable size, if they are larger, and remember that you can mix them with yogurt to add some variety for baby.

5. Eggs

Scrambled eggs, omelets, and frittatas are just a few options to bring cage-free, organic eggs, which are full of protein, into your baby’s diet. Although eggs are definitely a superfood, children under the age of one may be at risk for an allergic reaction, so consult with your pediatrician before introducing this food item.

6. Grapes

Grapes are also a superfood, but require more caution than other options because they can be a choking hazard if given to your baby whole. Be sure to cut them up into small enough pieces for your child, or use them in a teething feeder to help sooth your teething baby.

7. Sweet potatoes

Filled with potassium, vitamin C, fiber, and beta-carotene, which helps prevent some types of cancer, sweet potatoes are often a hit with babies because of their sweetness. Giving your baby mashed or small pieces of sweet potatoes will be an especially nutritious treat for your little one.

8. Water

When reading a list of superfoods, you might not expect to see water make the cut, but a lack of water can cause a number of health problems. Many children don’t drink enough water to stay sufficiently hydrated, so it is important to offer it between meals (though you should stick with milk or a substitute during meal time). Water infused with sliced pieces of fruit also offers an excellent alternative to juice, which should be offered in limited amounts.

Sources:

• University of Michigan
• How Parents Can Fight the Obesity Epidemic
  U.S
• Highbush Blueberry Council
• Blueberries: A Handful of Health.
  United States Department of Agriculture
• What Foods are in the Vegetable Group?

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