Weaning is a big milestone and your baby is about to do a whole lot of growing!

Did you know that most babies triple their birth weight in their first year? To support this growth and development, they need a balanced mix of key nutrients. Here’s what matters most:

Iron: Brain food

Iron is essential for brain development, particularly from six months, when their existing iron stores (from mum!) start to run low. Iron enables the blood to carry oxygen around the body to your baby’s organs and muscles and from six months additional iron needs to come from food.

 

Types of iron:

• Haem iron – found in meat, chicken and fish; easily absorbed
• Non-haem iron – found in eggs, lentils, beans, vegetables and fortified cereals; best absorbed with vitamin C (e.g. berries, kiwi, red pepper)

Top tips:

• Introduce iron-rich foods like lean red meat from six months
• Darker meats contain more iron
• Aim to include iron-rich foods twice a day
• Always pair with a vitamin C-rich food

 

Omega-3: Brain and eye support

Omega-3 fatty acids play a key role in brain and eye development.

Sources:

• Oily fish like salmon, mackerel and sardines are the best sources (twice weekly)
• Plant-based options such as flaxseeds, chia seeds and nut butters (every little helps!)

Formula milks are fortified with omega 3s and if breastfeeding, be sure to include those essential fatty acids in your own diet.

Carbohydrates: Energy

Carbohydrates provide essential energy and nutrients for growing babies.

 

Good sources include:
Bread, rice, pasta, potatoes, porridge, fortified cereals, lentils, beans, chickpeas, fruits and vegetables.
Tip:
Alternate white and wholegrain options, as too much fibre can fill babies up quickly and limit nutrient intake. Aim for one portion per meal.

Fats: Growth support
Healthy fats are essential for brain development, cell growth and energy.

Sources:
Eggs, avocado, olive & rapeseed oil, yoghurt, cheese, nut butters and seeds
Top tips:

• Around 50% of a baby’s calories should come from fats
• Avoid low-fat when buying dairy products

Protein: Building blocks
Protein supports the growth and development of muscles, bones and tissues, and also provides important nutrients like zinc.

Sources:
Meat, fish, eggs, chicken, tofu, yoghurt, beans and chickpeas
How much:
Around 2 portions daily (3 for vegetarian or vegan babies)

Vitamins & minerals
From 6 months to 5 years, it’s recommended to supplement vitamins A, C and D, unless your baby drinks more than 500ml of formula daily.

Weaning is such an exciting time – you get to introduce your little one to the wonderful world of food! A varied, balanced diet rich in iron, protein, omega-3s, healthy fats and key vitamins will support your baby’s growth and development and I promise, you will both have fun exploring all of these new foods along the way!
 

Looking for more recipe inspiration? Annabel’s award-winning recipe app is home to 1,300+ simple and delicious ideas for the whole family, PLUS new recipes every week.

 

Get your 1st month FREE with code AKNEC

 

https://annabelkaremel.onelink.me/MP0T/babyshow