New Mom

Homemade Baby Food

What to Feed Baby When He’s Ready for Some Solids

The age of 4–6 months is a magical age for babies. They are not only sitting up, smiling and sleeping for longer stretches but also ready to start solid foods. Parents should first check with their pediatrician to ensure baby’s ready to expand his diet. According to Rita P. Smith, a Registered Dietician at Sentara Martha Jefferson Hospital, babies younger than 4 months old aren’t physically ready for more than breast milk and formula. “Before 4 months,” Smith notes, “it’s difficult for infants to coordinate their tongues to push food down. They’re physically not as capable, and their digestive track hasn’t grown up enough to handle more complicated food. The nutrients ... will just pass through to the diaper.”

It’s also essential that babies are old enough to sit up without much support to prevent choking. Once baby’s reached the right age, parents should start with a single-grain cereal—preferably rice because it’s hypoallergenic. (Also, metering by Whitney Woollerton Morrill

baby’s exposure to one new food at a time makes tracking potential allergens easier). Smith advises, “Be sure to use rice cereal specifically formulated for infants because it’s iron-fortified, and babies are at risk for iron-deficiency.” Mix breast milk or formula into infant cereal at a ratio of 4:1 to start, so that it’s thin and soupy for baby to swallow, and familiar in taste. With time, cereal can evolve to a thicker consistency. Smith stresses that cow’s milk or goat’s milk shouldn’t be used as thinners until after their first birthday. New Mom Parents can then introduce individual fruits and vegetables. Jarred baby foods are a convenient and healthy option for busy parents. But, baby can also enjoy some homemade foods. Fruits. Mash soft, ripe bananas or avocados with a fork into a smooth consistency. Peaches or mangoes can be purchased frozen and then pureed with water. Apples are another good choice, when peeled, diced, cooked with water on the stove, and then pulsed in a blender for an even texture. Vegetables. Steam, boil, microwave or oven-roast any of these: green beans, peas, carrots, zucchini, butternut squash and sweet potatoes. When fork-tender, puree with a little water for a smooth texture. Protein. Cube thoroughly cooked-chicken and puree in blender/processor with some water. Vegetarian options can include pureed or mashed chickpeas, cannelloni beans or tofu. Always check that food is cooled to prevent scalding. Microwaves, in particular, are known to produce hot spots. It’s best to keep food simple. Smith explains, “Their taste buds are very MORE TIPS For more advice on making baby food and establishing healthy eating habits, visit: aap.org, eatright.org and Smith’s blog, sentara.com/ healthybites. sensitive and become easily overwhelmed.” For this reason, parents should not only forego sweeteners like honey but also salt, pepper and other seasonings. Later, when baby’s older, a few mild herbs can be added in. Homemade baby food can be prepared for each meal, or made in batches and frozen for later use. Frozen homemade baby food is generally good for two to three months, and fresh food is safe in the refrigerator for one to two days. Meals are one of the best family times, so be sure to model healthy habits right from the start by always eating with baby at the table so food is associated with a place.