Introducing solid foods to a baby can be both exciting and daunting for any new parent. There are a variety of baby foods available in the market but choosing the right one can be overwhelming. In this blog post, we will discuss tips on how to introduce solid foods into your baby's meal plan and what foods to start with.
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The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that babies should be exclusively breastfed for the first six months of their life. After six months, babies are ready for solid foods, but breast milk or formula should still be their primary source of nutrition until they are one year old.
When introducing solid foods, start with small amounts and gradually increase the quantity over time. It is important to introduce only one new food at a time, and wait a few days before introducing another, to watch out for any allergic reactions.
To start, mix breast milk or formula with pureed or mashed fruits or vegetables such as avocado, banana, sweet potatoes, or carrots. Gradually increase the texture of the food as your baby gets used to it, moving from purees to mashed foods and eventually finger foods.
Pap (Ogi): Pap is a popular Nigerian breakfast cereal made from maize or corn. It is easy to digest and fortified with essential vitamins and minerals.
Amala and Ewedu: Amala made from yam flour is one of the meals that babies are introduced to early enough. It’s important to put little to no pepper in it.
Rice cereal: Rice cereal is popular first food for babies in Nigeria. It is easy to digest and fortified with iron, which is essential for a baby's growth and development.
Yam or sweet potatoes: These root vegetables are an excellent source of carbohydrates and vitamins, and they are easy to digest. Boil and mash them until smooth and mix with a little breast milk or formula.
Mashed plantains: Plantains are a good source of fiber and potassium. Boil and mash them until smooth and mix with a little breast milk or formula.
Pureed fruits and vegetables: Fruits such as bananas, mangoes, and pawpaw are excellent sources of vitamins and minerals. Vegetables such as carrots, green beans, and peas are also rich in vitamins and minerals. Boil and mash them until smooth or blend them with a little breast milk or formula.
You can get some of these items in our store: pap, yam, yam flour, plantains, etc.
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Introducing solid foods to your baby can be an exciting and fun experience. Start with small amounts of pureed or mashed foods and gradually increase the texture as your baby gets used to it. Stick to nutritious foods and avoid adding salt, sugar, or spices to your baby's food. Remember to consult with your pediatrician before introducing any new foods to your baby. With proper care and attention, you can provide your baby with a healthy and nutritious start to their lifelong journey of food exploration.
