Make Every Bite Count with Nutrient-Dense Foods
In partnership with the Kansas Beef Council on behalf of beef farmers and ranchers.
Knowing which foods to feed your baby first can be confusing and if you start to ask people their opinions, you may get a mixed bag of answers. We know you don’t want to leave anything to chance when it comes to providing the right nourishment for your infant, so we gathered the latest recommendations and expert advice to help ensure your baby gets off to the very best start possible.
First foods, also known as complementary foods, should be introduced around 6 months of age. The introduction of nourishing foods at this time provides babies with key nutrients that cannot be met by breastmilk or formula alone. In addition, these foods provide the opportunity for little ones to experience new tastes, textures and colors while learning how to enjoy food. Foods like beef, for example, can provide babies with a good source of iron, zinc, choline, B vitamins and protein, and can also provide them with a unique taste and texture experience. Here is a list of some first foods that supply the nutrients to support optimal growth and development:
- Beef, poultry, fish
- Iron-fortified cereals
- Dairy products (cheese, milk, yogurt)
- Fruits and vegetables
- Avocado
- Nut butters
- Eggs
Now that you know what foods to start baby on, how do you start? Jill Castle, MS, RD, LDN who has practiced as a registered dietitian/nutritionist in the field of pediatric nutrition for over 25 years, offers the following recommendations:
- Babies are typically ready for solids if they are able to sit up, have good head control and seem interested in food.
- Start with simple foods and only one food at a time.
- Portions should be small.
- Do not force food and watch for fullness cues – closed lips, turns head, spits out food.
- Reassure parents that although choking is scary, it is largely preventable if the introduction of new foods aligns with the infant’s motor skills.
- Make feeding fun and look for recipes that can adapt to the whole family such as these nourishing dishes.
- Remember that perfection is not necessary and feeding time should be enjoyable for both you and your baby!
With its high-quality protein, iron, zinc and choline, beef can help infants thrive as they grow through key developmental milestones. To learn more about infant and toddler nutrition, click here.
Parents and caregivers are encouraged to consult a physician or health care provider with questions about starting solid foods.
