Here is an idea that has gone full circle. Babies used to survive on breast milk and whatever could be gleaned from the family dinner table. Homemade food, mashed by hand and later finger foods that were soft enough for baby to eat easily were the normal baby fare. But today busy moms who could be buying baby food off the shelf, are instead choosing to take the time to make their own homemade baby food and they have good reasons for doing so.
• Wholesome and healthy
When you steam and puree fruits and veggies for your baby you knowhow wholesome and fresh your food will be. In addition you can guard against additions of sugar and salt which baby doesn’t need and shouldn’t ingest.
• Age appropriate
In conjunction with your pediatrician, you’ll determine when each adult food item is introduced to baby. In general babies begin to try solid foods at about four to six months. But there are varying opinions on the best times to begin. See this chart for average times to begin eating fruits, veggies and grain items. But be sure to check with your doctor first.
• Prepared and quickly stored
When making baby food it is of utmost importance to follow strict health and safety rules. You’ll want to steam or otherwise prepare, puree and freeze, either in ice cube trays or other quick and easy containers, with as little time for the food items to be contaminated as possible. Good kitchen cleanliness is also important.
• A wealth of baby food recipes
While most homemade baby food recipes are very straightforward, there are a few tips and blendings of fruits and vegetables in recipe form. Don’t forget that some of the best food items for baby are fresh items such as mashed avocado or banana.
The effort it takes to create your own fresh and healthy homemade baby food will pay off in many ways. You’ll know you’ve offered a safe and healthy food product to your baby and that you’re avoiding many of the additives put into commercial products. And most moms, who make their own baby food do it in just an hour per week when they cook, puree and freeze their weekly supplies. And though there are as many eating issues as there are babies, you’ll find that baby loves to try new foods and textures too. Before you know it the totally smooth foods will move on to a texture that allows a few lumps and then baby graduates to finger foods. For any feeding problems you may encounter read the advice given by baby experts or consult your personal pediatrician. For any allergy questions or other health cautions such as the use of honey for babies you’ll also want to have a conversation with your health expert. There’s no doubt that the effort put into the production of homemade baby food will be worth it as you watch your little one grow healthy and strong.
