Superfoods For Babies
The world of weaning and baby food can be so overwhelming - there are just so many opinions, and so much contradictory information coming from all directions. What should be a fun and reassuring and exciting time for you and your baby quickly becomes a major source of stress and frustration - and feelings of 'not doing it right' can quickly lead to guilt and added-on baby blues.
Take a deep breath, Mama. We know you want to give your little one the best possible start to solids, so we've put together a list of baby superfoods that are not only easy to grab + prep, but are known to boost baby's brain power and muscle development. And for those who don't know if they could face cooking it all from scratch, Mamamade is here to help.
1. Avocados
Why we love 'em
They're easy to digest. Chock full of good fats for brain and eye development. Brimming with vitamins C, D, A, K, E, folate, B-6 and minerals like calcium, iron, and zinc that are all vital for developing babies.
How to serve 'em
Mash or puree with a bit of baby's usual milk, or offer them in long narrow strips or small dice to practice pincer-grip. We serve 'em up in 3 of our mixes in the form of Avocado Oil!
Fun fact - babies love avocado and banana mash. Sounds bizarre, but don't knock it til you've tried it!
Just so you know...
Avocado allergies are super rare but can be linked to banana and latex allergies
2. Lentils
Why we love 'em
They're what we call 'Gateway Texture': easy to eat whilst still adding a bit of bite. Also full of protein, fibre, iron and B-vitamins
How to serve 'em
Soak 'em overnight to reduce risk they'll cause tummy upset, then boil until very tender. They should be mushy enough to serve.
3. Chia Seeds
Why we love 'em
Full of protein. More calcium than milk. Rich in Iron, Omega 3, Fibre and Antioxidants. More, please!
How to serve 'em
The best part? They don't require any cooking at all! Add 1-2 tablespoons to steamed veg (that's what we do!) or puree. Mix in with milk or water for a scrummy allergen-free breakfast pot. They don't taste of much, so don't be afraid to add them to nearly anything to bulk up on nutrients and protein.
Just so you know...
Please don't serve them as-is! They must be mixed in with something else first, as they'll absorb the liquid from whatever they come into contact with...
4. Sweet Potatoes
Why we love 'em
One of our fave first foods for babies, these bad boys are rich in Vitamins A, B6 and E to support eye development, and they're chock full of antioxidants to boot!
How to serve 'em
Peel, cube and steam and then puree, or roast in a hot oven for 45 minutes then scoop out the yummy insides.
5. Blueberries
Why we love 'em
Full of antioxidants, vitamins C, A, K for healthy bones, E and B, zinc, potassium, and fibre for a healthy heart, they're also just very very yummy and an easy favourite!
How to serve 'em
Cut into quarters or halves for an easy finger-food.
6. Greek Yoghurt
Why we love 'em
Rich in calcium, protein, and vitamins, greek yoghurt is easily digestible because of its culturing process, which breaks down lactose.
How to serve 'em
Stir in fresh fruit (like blueberries!) to add a bit of natural sweetness.
Just so you know...
There's no need to serve your baby the 'baby' yoghurts usually found on the shelf. Those are typically high in sugars and overly sweet. Try offering your baby plain yoghurt - we bet they like it!
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Looking for an easy way to add superfoods to your baby's diet? Get started with one of our organic baby food subscription boxes, based with plant-based goodness and delivered straight to your door.
