Adults have their immune system developed and all their body mechanism in top order. So, the body can fight off any unhealthy food intake. But in babies the body is still in the nascent stage and so they do not have the capability to fight off all the bacteria and compounds that come with food. Market is flooded with baby foods that promise to meet all the nutritional requirements of the baby but parents must have a better understanding. They must be wary of flowing along with the tide of commercialization. It is always better to feed the baby homemade food as it is more nutritious and safe from various industrial products, which in commercial baby foods creeps in no matter how much safeguards you take. Also feeding food especially cooked for the baby will condition baby’s stomach so that the digestive capability is increased. So, if you are looking towards a healthy alternative for your baby then read the article below to get an idea on safe foods for your baby.
Safe Baby Foods
- Avoid feeding honey to the baby as it may contain Clostridium botulinum spores. The baby intestines cannot prevent the growth of these spores which can cause toxic poisoning.
- Peanut butter is also unsafe as it can be quite difficult for the babies to swallow. As a result they are more susceptible to choke. Other foods which must be avoided are cheese crackers, grilled cheese sandwiches, marshmallows and jelly candy.
- The foods that are selected for the baby should be about the size of a pea. The foods should be cut into small pieces.
- Cereals which are low in sugar are very good for the babies. The baby can either chew or suck on the cereal. Bread can be toasted lightly and cut into small shapes before feeding the baby. Do not feed fresh bread to the baby as it can choke the baby or even stick to the roof of the mouth.
- Fruits fed to the baby must be very ripe and cut into small pieces. Some fruits that are good for babies are bananas, plums, pears, peaches and seedless watermelon. It is better to quarter the fruits before feeding.
- Babies with teeth growth can be fed pastas which are of the larger types. For spiral pastas it must be cut into small sections and spaghettis must be avoided.
- Vegetables must be cooked thoroughly so that they are soft. Keep the vegetable chunks small and you can also smash them with your fingers to feed the baby. Meat should also be cooked thoroughly and cut into tiny slices before feeding it to the baby.
Tips On Keeping Baby Food Safe
- Before preparing baby food wash the hands with soap and water.
- Do not refrigerate perishable items for more than two hours.
- While traveling pack the baby food and bottles in an insulated container.
- Clean the blender or food processor thoroughly before making baby food.