In the first six months of life, the baby must maintain its exclusive diet through breastfeeding.
During this adaptation period, in which the child receives additional nutrition, it is usual to start supplementing the baby’s diet with soft porridge. Still, you must be careful so that new foods do not harm your baby.
When it comes to feeding your baby, you want to ensure that you provide them with the best possible nutrition. However, there are a few foods that you should avoid giving your baby. Here are 11 of them:
Sugar is one of the foods that should never be given to a baby
Neither the baby, the older children, nor any person, in general, need it. For this reason, the longer its introduction can be delayed, the better.
In addition, it should never be given before a year. Excessive added sugar puts children at risk of various diseases, like tooth decay, diabetes, obesity, high cholesterol, or fatty liver (among others). This is stated by the American Academy of Pediatrics and other expert bodies.
Sugar consumption also impacts the future diversity of the microbiota, according to a study published in the journal “Nutrients.
Honey
The composition of honey is quite similar to that of white sugar.
Botulism, an uncommon but potentially lethal illness, is one of the most well-known hazards. Because the processing of honey cannot guarantee the complete absence of this bacterium’s spores, it is not advised for children under the age of one year.
Salt
This product should be removed from the diet of babies because it can be detrimental to the health of the kidneys.
In addition, a study published in the “International Journal of Food Sciences and Nutrition” links salt intake in babies with an increased risk of high blood pressure in future ages.
Fish and shellfish
Mercury levels are high in certain species of fish and shellfish.
The most recent recommendations of the Spanish Agency for Consumer Affairs, Food Safety and Nutrition are to avoid the most toxic species in children under 10 years of age. Among the fish with the highest mercury concentration, the shark, the emperor, the swordfish, the pike, or the bluefin tuna stand out.
Children under 3 years of age should avoid eating crabs and the heads of different crustaceans
Spinach, chard, and borage could cause hypoxic injury
To reduce exposure to this component, the following guidelines can be followed: It is recommended to avoid them in children under 1 year of age or introduce them in quantities of less than 35 grams per day.
Up to 3 years old, do not offer more than half a portion of chard or spinach (45 grams daily) as a side dish. In addition, these cannot be given if the children have gastrointestinal infections.
In the case of borage, it is not appropriate to include it before 3 years. Likewise, it is advisable not to keep these vegetables cooked at room temperature and to freeze them if they are not consumed on the same day. Its washing and cooking significantly reduce the presence of nitrates, provided that the remaining water is eliminated.
Cow’s milk and low-fat dairy
From 12 months, they can drink whole cow’s milk. Once they are 3 years old, it is recommended to switch to semi-skimmed dairy products and allow moderate consumption of dairy products in general so that they do not displace the intake of other healthy and necessary foods.
In addition, most experts do not advise the use of follow-on milk and dairy products (or special ones for children) because they are unnecessary.
Rice drinks
Some rice-based drinks have high concentrations and should be avoided in both infants and young children.
Algae
They contain very high amounts of iodine which can cause health problems in babies.
Whole Nuts
Up to 5 years old, it is better to give them crushed in the form of a spreadable cream.
Fish, meat, eggs, and raw dairy
All foods of animal origin in the diet of babies (and children of any age) must be cooked thoroughly.
Superfluous food
This section includes apparent products such as sweets or chocolate, but we must also mention cookies or chips. These do not provide nutrients and are not necessary for your day-to-day life, so limiting them as much as possible at any age is better. The same can be said for soft drinks and all kinds of sugary drinks.
Conclusion
It is best to avoid giving your baby any of the foods listed above. These foods can be harmful and even deadly to infants. Always consult with your pediatrician before introducing new foods to your baby.
If you are a new parent, educate yourself on which foods are safe for your baby. Many online resources are available, such as the American Academy of Pediatrics website.
FAQs | What should and shouldn’t the babies eat?
What foods are hard for babies to digest?
There are a few different types of foods that can be hard for babies to digest. One is dairy products since many babies are lactose intolerant. Another is spicy food, which can cause an upset stomach. And finally, foods that are high in fiber can be difficult for babies to digest.
What vegetables should babies avoid?
There are a few vegetables that babies should avoid. These include broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage. These vegetables contain a compound called isothiocyanates, which can cause gas and intestinal discomfort.
What can I feed my 11-month-old?
There are a lot of different opinions on what to feed an 11-month-old, but most pediatricians agree that a mix of solid foods and breast milk or formula is best. Some good options for solid foods include avocados, cooked vegetables, and soft fruits like bananas. As your child gets older, you can start to introduce harder fruits and vegetables, as well as meat and other protein sources.
Can a 10-month-old have bread?
Yes, a 10-month-old can have bread. Bread is a good source of carbohydrates, which are important for your baby’s growth and development. However, you should avoid giving your baby too much bread, as it can also be high in sugar and calories. Try to give your baby other healthy sources of carbohydrates, such as fruits and vegetables.
Is banana every day good for the baby?
There is no definitive answer to this question as every baby is different. Some babies may tolerate bananas well every day, while others may only be able to have them every other day or less often. The best way to determine if your baby can handle bananas every day is to start slowly by giving them just a small amount and gradually increase the portion size as tolerated.
Are strawberries safe for babies?
Yes, strawberries are safe for babies. They are a good source of Vitamin C and other nutrients. However, you should avoid giving your baby straws or other choking hazards.
What is the best fruit for babies?
There is no one “best” fruit for babies, as different fruits offer different nutrients and benefits. However, some good options for babies include blueberries, strawberries, bananas, and apples. These fruits are all high in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, and they are also relatively easy for babies to digest.
When can babies eat scrambled eggs?
Babies can eat scrambled eggs when they are around 8 months old. It is important to make sure that the eggs are well cooked and that there is no raw egg present.
Can babies eat cheese?
Yes, babies can eat cheese. Cheese is a good source of protein and calcium, which are both important for a baby’s growth and development. However, you should always consult with your pediatrician before giving your baby any new food.
Can babies eat peanut butter?
Yes, babies can eat peanut butter. It is a good source of protein and healthy fats. However, it is important to start with a small amount and watch for any reactions. Some babies may be allergic to peanuts.
Which meat is good for babies?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the best meat for babies will vary depending on their individual dietary needs and preferences. However, some parents may choose to give their babies meat from poultry, such as chicken or turkey, as these meats are generally considered to be lower in fat and calories than red meats. Additionally, poultry is a good source of protein, iron, and zinc.
Is broccoli good for the baby?
Yes, broccoli is good for babies. Broccoli is a good source of fiber, vitamin C, and vitamin K. It also contains important nutrients like potassium and magnesium.
When can babies eat ice cream?
Babies can eat ice cream when they are about 8 months old. It is important to wait until this age because babies’ digestive systems are not mature enough to handle dairy products until then. Ice cream is a dairy product, so it is important to wait until the baby is old enough to digest it properly.
Can babies have caramel?
Yes, babies can have caramel. Limited caramel is safe for babies to eat.
What fish is best for babies?
Some good options for baby fish include salmon, trout, and tilapia. These fish are all high in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for baby development.
