Introducing your baby early on to a variety of foods can provide an array of benefits such as supplying different vitamins, minerals, and omega-3 fatty acids for the child. It can also, potentially, prevent your child from becoming a picky eater. Let’s take a look at some super foods you can start introducing to your baby.
The Healthiest Baby Foods
Avocado
Avocado is a good source of healthy fats and protein. Pairing avocado with other vegetables can increase the absorption of the nutrients in other vegetables. A 2005 study published in the Journal of Nutrition found that by adding avocados to salads, there is an increased absorption of the health-promoting phytonutrients from the vegetables.
Butternut Squash
Butternut squash contains a good amount of beta carotene, an essential nutrient for vision. It is also a great source of vitamin C, which can support our immune system. Butternut squash also provides fiber, which promotes healthy bowel function, and B vitamins and folate, which are necessary during a child’s growing periods. Try steaming butternut squash and mixing it with mashed avocado.
Blueberries
Blueberries have higher antioxidant properties than any other fresh fruit. They contain almost 40% more resveratrol than is found in red wine. The antioxidant resveratrol protects the brain from oxidative stress, which is what happens when the cells of the body die off, due to lack of antioxidants. Think of a car that is rusting…eventually the metal will crumble. This is what oxidative stress does to our “frames.” Blueberries are also abundant in fiber and vitamins A and C. Blend and stir into baby cereal or yogurt.
Beans
Most everyone has heard how great grapes are with their powerful antioxidant anthocyanins. Black beans contain the same amount of that powerful antioxidant as grapes. Following black beans, red beans, then brown beans have the highest amount of anthocyanins. Black beans are also packed with protein and fiber. There are 15 grams of each nutrient in one cup.
Sweet Potatoes
This vegetable is an excellent source of beta carotene, and a very good source of vitamin C. Both of these nutrients have anti-inflammatory properties. Sweet potatoes are one of the oldest vegetables known to man, having been traced back to prehistoric times. Another benefit for your child is that sweet potatoes have more fiber than white potatoes. Steam, boil, or bake your potatoes, then mash and serve them straight, or mix with avocado.
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