Feeding my babies their first food has been an exciting endeavor for me; shocking, I know 😉  I spent quite a bit of time researching with my first.  The options are endless…and accompanied by do’s, dont’s, controversies and norms. When to give them their first food.  How much.  What kind.  The shoulds and the shouldn’ts.  What I have learned, more than anything, is that we all make different choices for very different reasons.  It’s a beautiful thing.
My 5 month old, Jude, is quite the eater. Â His 20 juicy pounds will prove it. Â He’s healthy and happy, praise the Lord, and I must say I do a pretty darn solid job of embracing each and every squishy roll on his little body. Â But he’s giving me so many indications that he is ready for more than milk. Here are a couple of “first foods” I choose to feed my littles and a little background as to why I make the choices that I do. Â I know many physicians say to start them on rice cereal or oatmeal and, by all means, go for it if that’s what you prefer. Â I feel that my babies tiny tummies just aren’t ready to process refined grains.
Mashed Avocado:  In my opinion, an awesome first option.  It’s simple and convenient for mom and dad, and it tastes mild and delicious for those teeny mouths.  The healthy fats this food has to offer are crucial for babies brains to develop and grow.  It’s perfect for on the go, too…just throw one in your purse.  Slice it in half, scoop out the flesh, mash with a fork and you’re set!
Egg Yolk:  I am an egg yolk advocate, through and through.  Aside from being extremely healthy for adults, they make a wonderful first food for babies.  The texture is perfect, the taste…amazing and they contain great amounts of DHA and iron.  They are a wonderful balance of protein, fats and carbs…and simple to digest for babies.  Just boil 1/2 inch of water in a saucepan over medium high heat…add the desired amount of eggs, cover and reduce to medium heat.  Cook for 6 1/2 minutes and then run under cold water to stop the cooking.  Peel, slice in half and grab a spoon to scoop out all of that deliciousness for your littles.  And make some extra for yourself…so good!
Sweet Potatoes:  The nutrient profile of this veggie is through the roof….and it taste like dessert.  Simple to digest and full of fiber, beta carotene, calcium and iron, it makes a wonderful first food.  Just grab a whole sweet potato,  pierce a few holes in it with a fork and bake it in the oven at 400 until soft and cooked through.  Slice it in half, remove the skin and mash it up with a fork.  My little guy just had this for the first time.  I will tell you…he is not a cryer…never has been.  He literally cried every time I took the spoon out of his mouth.  It’s that good.  And yes, he is my child 😉
What kinds of first foods do you celebrate in your home? Â Love new ideas over here!
