Fantastic Foods!

So, my little one is in the thick of his love affair with solid foods! I started him on avocado and sweet potato around 5 months because he just seemed so interested in it. We've been going strong ever since. Here are a few of my favorite foods that are a must for young eaters. Remember, babies have more taste buds now then they'll ever have in their life. So, expose them to as much as possible and get those little palates going.

6 months:
Coconut Yogurt: This is a great choice if you're not a fan of dairy or your little one is allergic. Also, coconut is high in fiber and essential fatty acids, the ones your little one needs to develop muscle tissues and maintain cell health. You might think coconut is related to tree nuts, but being that it's a fruit, it's actually closer to a peach, so it's totally safe to try.

7 months:
Tofu: This is a fun food for kids to play with. You can try silken or regular, either way your giving your babe some amazing vegetable protein. Blend it with other veggies, or add it to yogurt to boost up the nutritional value.

8 months: Here are a few choices of proteins that can be added to baby's cereal or yogurt
Sunflower Seed Butter: A ton of protein, calcium & iron, which is essential as baby's iron reserves are running out around this time.
Tahini: Also known as sesame seed paste; full of protein, calcium & iron
Flaxseed: Great source of omega 3's, fiber and protein. Also aids in digestive health
Kelp Powder: Excellent source of iodine which is needed for growth and development
Brewer's Yeast or Nutritional Yeast: Great source of B vitamins and amino acids
Hemp Milk: A great mother's milk alternative. Hemp is actually quite a super food and is packed with the hard to find omega 3's and 6's. Vastly superior to cow's milk.

9 months:
Lentils: 13 g of protein per 1/4 C; lentils are just about the highest veggie protein out there. Also chocked full of iron and fiber. Easy to turn into patties with added veggies.

10 & 11 months:
Ground Sprouts: Sprouts are micro plants that are actually living foods. They are one of the best ways to get essential vitamins and nutrients. Be sure get them from a trusted source as they can carry bacteria.

12 months: A free for all; berries, citrus, egg whites; feed your baby whatever you're eating!

Get creative and have fun! If you love sharing food with your baby, your baby will love eating food with you!