10 Best First Foods for Baby

Michael Stanson is THE last baby in our family. I repeat. The last baby. Heck, he’s already a toddler and I’m just now getting to a post featuring him, his favorite foods, and the best first foods for baby [get ready for Michael overload in this post].

Yeah Mom, we all know you’re a little delayed in writing this post… I’ve been eating solid foods for almost a year now!

I’m sometimes forget that I’m not just a short order cook for toddlers and preschoolers. I’m actually a registered dietitian nutritionist who worked darn hard for those degrees and has a lot of knowledge behind her regarding food and nutrition. Phew! So much so I thought hey, why not put together a little blog post with some of the best first foods for babies. Lord knows I have the experience!

Have additional questions? Send me an email or message on Facebook or Instagram. I’m here for YOU! Now to the meat of this post…

FIRST FRUITS:

Avocado: Full of essential nutrients and fats your growing baby needs, ripe, creamy avocados are easily digested and well tolerated by most babies!

Banana: Bananas are sweet and soft, making them easily digestible for most babies. You can mash a banana with a fork for your baby to spoon-feed or let them pick up soft pieces from their tray.

Blueberries: The blue pigment in the skin of blueberries is a powerful antioxidant which research has shown to be a protectant against cancer. They are also rich in vitamin C and beta-carotene.

Pears: Touted as the least allergenic food, you can purchase fresh or canned in 100% fruit juice! If you buy fresh, consider softening a few slices or chunks in the microwave or steaming before giving to baby.

Fruits, veggies, meat, and more! Just give me more MOM!

FIRST VEGGIES:

Sweet Potato: Packed with nutrients like Vitamin A and beta carotene— which are essential for eye health. They also have a high fiber content which helps keep baby more regular.

Squash: Filled with Vitamin A and potassium, butternut or acorn squash make a nutritious addition to your baby’s diet. These are great options when in season during the fall!

Carrots: High in beta-carotene and Vitamin A, making an excellent first food for baby when steamed, microwaved, or roasted. Just be sure to give baby soft pieces as chewing a raw carrot may be tough without teeth!

You want me to eat vegetables? Say what?!

CEREAL & MEAT:

Oatmeal: Contrary to popular belief, cereal does not need to be a first food for baby. But if you decide to go that route, simple oatmeal makes a high fiber and whole grain option! Just be sure to use an unflavored version or make your own at home.

Brown Rice: Rice does not contain gluten, a protein found in wheat, oats, barley, and rye that may cause a food allergy or sensitivity. Brown rice is a whole grain and easily digested by most babies.

Red Meat: An easily absorbable source of iron for you and your baby, which baby stops getting from Mom around 6 months of age if breastfed. Try ground beef crumbles or small pieces of cooked steak.