Nutrition Science and Everyday Application - beta v 0.1

598 ALICE CALLAHAN, PHD, HEATHER LEONARD, MED, RDN, AND TAMBERLY POWELL, MS, RDN
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends beginning with iron-rich foods such as
pureed meat or iron-fortified cereal (e.g., rice cereal, oatmeal), as iron is usually the most
limiting nutrient at this age, particularly for exclusively breastfed babies. Once these foods
are introduced, others can gradually be added to the diet, introducing one at a time to keep
an eye out for allergic reactions. Work up to a variety of foods from all of the food groups,
as babies are willing to try just about anything at this stage, and this is an opportunity for
them to learn about different flavors. You can also gradually increase texture, from pureed
to mashed food, then lumpy foods to soft finger foods. By 12 months, most babies can eat
most of the foods at the family table, with some modifications to avoid choking hazards. 1,2
When choosing good complementary foods, there are three main goals: (1) to meet
nutrient requirements; (2) to introduce potentially allergenic foods; and (3) to support your
baby in learning to eat many different flavors and textures. Parents should be sure to include
the following: 1,2
• Good sources of iron and zinc, as both minerals can be limiting for breastfed
infants. Good sources include meat, poultry, fish, and iron-fortified cereal. Beans,
whole grains, and green vegetables add smaller amounts of iron.
• Adequate fat to support babies’ rapid growth and brain development. Good
sources include whole fat yogurt, avocado, nut butters, and olive oil for cooking
vegetables. Fish is also a great food for babies, because it provides both iron and
fat, and it’s a good source of omega-3 fatty acids like DHA and EPA, which support
brain development.
• A variety of vegetables, fruits, and whole grains, so that your baby learns to like
many different tastes and textures. It may take babies and toddlers 8 to 10