Nutritious First Foods to Introduce to Your Baby

Meal preparation for your baby isn't just about featuring the healthiest foods, it's also about avoiding additives and artificial ingredients.

Free time can be hard to come by when you're caring for a young child, so research can be daunting. But don't worry, because here's a list of healthy first food items that you'll want to consider.

• Sweet potatoes

This savory vegetable is a favorite among children and adults. It packs plenty of nutrients, including calcium, vitamins A and C and potassium. They're quick to prepare and you can rest easy knowing that they're soft enough for your baby to chew. Bear in mind that sweet potatoes can retain heat very well, so be aware of how hot the item is before feeding it to your child.

• Peas

These small veggies are great for healthy eating. They boast vitamins A, B and C, zinc, iron, calcium and much more. Since they're so small, this is a food you should puree well. Once you do so, they're easy to chew and introduce your little one to some texture. It's a good transitional food that'll prepare him or her for the foods to come

• Squash

This food will never be boring, thanks to the wide variety of types and flavors. This aspect of squash also ensures that there are always ones that are in season. You won't have to worry about freshness or having to spend too much money when you feature this food.

• Mix it Up

Eating the same foods gets boring for anyone, including your little one. Don't be afraid to combine vegetables when making baby food. This can be especially beneficial if there are certain veggies that he or she won't eat. Sneaking a bit in with other veggie purees will ensure that your baby gets the nutrients in the less favored food.

• Apple

An apple a day may be too much for your baby, but it doesn't mean you can't get him or her started on the habit! In the early stages, you'll want to puree these fruits finely. As your young one's eating abilities develop, you can begin to feature apples in a more textured form.

• Bananas

These naturally mushy fruits are aromatic and sweet, and will likely be one of your baby's favorite treats. The nature of bananas makes them easy to bring as a snack, according to the Wholesome Baby Food blog, written by a health-minded mother. There's no preparation necessary. As such, having them in the home can be a good way to ensure that your little one always has access to a healthy fruit regardless of how busy you may be. 

Introducing your baby to textured foods can be scary, especially if he or she is your first child. If you have any doubts, don't hesitate to speak to your pediatrician.
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