There are so many nutritious foods to choose from these days. It’s sometimes hard to know where to start, particularly when it comes to choosing what to feed our little ones.
Here’s a list of 10 of the best healthy and nutritious baby-friendly foods to get you started.
1. Avocado
Avocados are a rich source of ‘good’ fats - an important energy source essential for developing brains. Serve them as they come or spread onto toast or biscuits.
2. Bananas
Another great food that comes in its own packaging! Bananas are particularly high in potassium which is essential for healthy nerve and muscle function. Carry a whole banana in your bag, and peel it open when bub is hungry.
3. Sweet potato
Sweet potatoes are one of my favourite foods for babies. They’re full of beta carotene – which is converted to vitamin A in the body. Sweet potatoes are great baked whole, steamed, mashed or cut into chips and crisped up in the oven.
4. Blueberries
High in antioxidants, vitamin C and fibre, blueberries pack a powerful nutritional punch. Serve them to your little whole (or cut in half if they’re big ones!), mix them with other fruit for a little fruit salad, add them to bubs breakfast cereal or whip them up in a smoothie.
5. Chicken, Beef, and Lamb
Meats like chicken, beef and lamb are a wonderful source of protein needed by babies for growth and repair of muscles and other body tissues. They’re also rich in nutrients like iron, vitamin B6 and zinc. Try slow cooking meats for bub with veggies in a stew – it will make it easier to chew and digest.
6. Yoghurt
Plain, unsweetened yoghurt which contains live cultures is another fantastic food for babies. It is high in nutrients like calcium and vitamin D – which are necessary for healthy bones and teeth.
7. Pumpkin
High in beta-carotene, vitamins C and B6 the orange, creamy flesh of a pumpkin is delicious, and nutritious. Try baking for extra sweetness, or pureeing with a pinch of cinnamon.
8. Broccoli
Broccoli is chock full of nutrients, particularly folic acid, vitamins C, K and A, and magnesium. Combine with cauliflower and cheese to make a delicious puree, or lightly steam and serve your little one some ‘little trees’ to chew on.
9. Whole grains – brown rice, oats, millet, barley
Whole grains like brown rice, oats, millet and barley are high in fibre and nutrients like magnesium and selenium, supporting healthy muscle and immune function.
10. Quinoa
Quinoa is high in magnesium and iron and contains essential amino acids. Cooked quinoa makes a delicious breakfast when served with fruit, or mix in with some steamed veggies at dinner time for a protein boost.
