5 Healthy Foods For Your Baby (9 months+)

After 9 months of slowly adjusting your baby to solids, it can be an overwhelming time as you try to see what your baby likes and dislikes. Introducing your baby to solid foods can also be difficult because there are so many varied recommendations and “methods.” However, another challenge may arise: what kind of food you are going to feed them? It is important to feed your baby healthy foods (for obvious reasons). You want them to grow strong and healthy as they get older, so it’s a great idea to get them used to eating these types of foods, as this may help prevent them from being picky eaters. Resist the temptation to give them foods heavy in sugar, including puddings, ice cream, and sugary drinks. Keep reading to get some ideas on what healthy foods to introduce to your baby. Allow them to explore, eat with their fingers, try a small baby spoon on their own, and then …prepare for bath time!

    1. Fruits and Yogurt

A lot of babies enjoy fruit, as it is sweet and refreshing! Not only is it good for them, but it also has no added sugars. Fruit is also not too hard for them to try to chew, as it is typically soft (examples: bananas, raspberries, blueberries). Other fruits such as apples or watermelon should come a little later, after they have teeth and can master chewing and swallowing. All fruits should be cut up into small bits so it is easier to chew and swallow. Citrus fruits should not be introduced to them too young due to the acidity. Plain yogurt typically takes time for baby to adjust to, but you can sweeten it with some mashed fruit. 

    2. Vegetables

Introducing babies and young children to veggies may not be as easy as fruits. However, the younger they are introduced, the more they will likely adapt. Due to the harder texture of vegetables, it’s a good idea to give them solid versions once they are fully able to chew. In the meantime, puree the veggies for a much softer texture. Or, cook a sweet potato and serve at room temperature in its mashed form. Avocado is a great choice and when fully ripe very easy for your baby to eat and digest. Once they are ready to eat fully solid veggies, then broccoli, cauliflower, and zucchini are a great start! 

    3. Oatmeal

Oatmeal is a great food option for your child. This is a food that is easy for them to eat and is also great for digestion. It can also be made super quickly and efficiently. If your baby is picky or prefers more mild food (which is very common), you can give them plain oatmeal with whatever specified toppings they usually like. It’s always good to try out a few different types, as this time in your child’s life is all about trying new things and learning with them.

    4. Beans

Beans are a great source of micronutrients and also include protein, iron, and minerals for your baby. There are many different ways that you can make beans so trying out different things is a great way to see if your baby will like them. They can be pureed or even mixed with rice. However, many other ways can be found online. At the end of the day, you can make them in whatever ways you think your baby.

    5. Chicken, Fish, and Eggs

There is a large spectrum of meats you can introduce to your child. Whether it’s chicken, turkey or salmon, cut it up into small pieces. Add quinoa or or small pieces of pasta to the mixture. Eggs are another easy food for your baby to eat. Scramble the eggs in a little avocado oil to keep them from sticking. There are so many sources of protein, as shown below.

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