Kids’ early eating experiences can affect how they eat as they get older. That’s why it’s so important to introduce them to healthy foods from the very beginning.
What Foods Should I Introduce to My Child First?
When your child is about 6 months old, you can start introducing him or her to foods and drinks other than breast milk and infant formula. For most children, you don’t need to introduce foods in a specific order.
By the time your child is 7 or 8 months old, he or she can eat a variety of foods from different food groups. Your child needs a variety of vitamins and minerals to grow healthy and strong. Try making a rainbow of different colored foods on your child’s plate. Here are a few examples:
Drinks Matter, Too!
When your child is between 6 and 12 months old, you can offer:
Foods to Avoid
There are certain foods and drinks you should avoid giving your child.
If your child is under 12 months, avoid foods and drinks such as:
Be Their Role Model
Once your child is 12 months old or older, they’ll be eating more of the foods that you eat. Eating a healthy diet sets a good example for your children.
It’s important for children and adults alike to limit foods that are high in sodium and added sugars.
Eating a healthy diet can help children get the nutrients they need for healthy growth and development. For adults, a healthy diet can help protect against a number of serious and costly chronic diseases, including heart disease, type 2 diabetes, some cancers and obesity.
A healthy diet is rich in fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and low-fat or fat-free dairy.
For all your child's healthcare needs, call Lane Pediatrics at 225-658-4070.