DO'S:
Do freeze pureed foods
in ice-cube trays. Frozen cubes should be
stored in a sealed plastic bag and used
within two months.
Do dispose unfinished meals.
Bacteria forms quickly.
Do introduce new foods
every 3-5 days so that allergic reactions,
if any, can be detected.
Do make sure your child
has tried and tolerated most vegetables
and fruits before introducing any non-vegetarian
foods.
Do become a label reader.
Check the ingredient list and follow the
instructions on labels of ready-made foods.
Do steam or microwave vegetables
and fruits instead of boiling to retain
as much vitamins and minerals.
Do remember that patience
is the key when feeding your baby. Initial
feedings can be unproductive, messy and
unnerving.
Dont's:
DON'T put your baby to
bed with a bottle. This can promote tooth
decay.
DON'T start your baby on
solids earlier than four months (unless
your doctor tells you otherwise.) Your baby
may not be ready.
Don't feed nuts, raisins,
popcorn, raw vegetables, unpeeled fruits
to children under the age of 2. (Check with
your pediatrician if in doubt)
Don't add condiments or
strong spices to homemade baby foods when
your baby is very little. Your baby does
not need additional flavoring. Remove your
infant's portion before seasoning food for
the rest of the family.
Don't resort to cookies or other
junk foods as a means of pacifying a fussy
baby.
Don't use canned
vegetables as they are usually loaded with
sodium and additives. Frozen vegetables
usually are a safer bet.
Don't use microwave
to warm foods. Despite stirring well you
could miss the hot spots. If you have to,
always test the temperature by touching
a spoonful to the outside of your upper
lip and wash the spoon before using. Better
still, use a temperature-sensitive spoon.
Don't add cereals
or other solids to bottles during night
feeds. Contrary to belief, it can cause
gagging or choking, is bad for the teeth,
and doesn't build good eating habits.
Don't feed your
baby in a reclining position as this may
cause your baby to choke or gag.
Don't give highly
acidic fruits, such as oranges, tangerines
and pineapples, to babies below 12 months
as the acid content is harsh on the immature
digestive system.
Don't ignore your
baby's signals; never force-feed your child.
That way you keep meal times pleasant. Begin
with one or two spoonfuls when you first
introduce solids, and let your baby guide
you from there.
Don't limit your
child's fat intake during the initial 24
months. Fats are vital to development.
