Breastmilk is the best food to give to your babies to make them grow healthy.
In addition to breastmilk, here are other foods you can introduce to your baby’s diet. But remember, you can exclusively breastfeed your baby for the first six months.
1. Single-grain cereals
Fortified cereals give your baby iron, an important nutrient they need to grow. A baby is born with a natural reserve of iron that begins to deplete around 6 months of age.
2. Eggs
Eggs are incredible sources of protein, riboflavin, biotin and iron. Protein helps in cell growth and development. Egg white is a concentrated source of protein. Make sure to include eggs almost everyday in your child’s meal. Having a yummy omelet or a boiled egg for breakfast is a great way to start their day and ensure they get proteins.
3. Chicken
Poultry meat is a great source of protein, along with B vitamins (mainly thiamine, vitamin B6 and pantothenic acid). Studies on the physical growth of young children belonging to low-income groups show that good quality animal protein is required to accelerate growth and development. You can try out different recipes that include chicken to improve the protein intake of your child.
4. Green leafy vegetables
Green leafy vegetables not only give your kids strength but also supply a good amount of calcium. The calcium in these vegetables (Chinese cabbage, kale and broccoli) balances bone resorption (breaking down of tissue in the bone to release minerals) and deposition (building of tissue in the bone by deposition of minerals), which varies according to age. In children and adolescents, bone formation is more than resorption, which supports bone growth.
5. Carrots
Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which is converted by the body into vitamin A. Adding raw carrots to the diet helps the body absorb calcium more efficiently, which influences bone resorption and keeps them healthy. Add raw carrots to salads or make fresh carrot juice for your kids.
6. Fruits
Fruits are rich in vitamins and minerals, essential micronutrients that boost immunity and accelerate growth and development. Include different varieties of fruits everyday to meet the daily requirements.
7. Mixed Nuts
Nuts are powerhouses of nutrients and contains vitamins, minerals, healthy fats and proteins. The omega-3 fatty acids present in nuts are beneficial for bone health and turnover. The protein in nuts are also vital for the growth of your kid. Include nuts as a snack or add them to cereals.
NOTE: If your child has nut allergy or intolerance, check with a pediatrician before introducing any new food.
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