Foods to avoid

Once you start giving your baby solid food keep in mind that some foods won’t be suitable for her immature digestive system…

Salt

Steer well clear of salt where your baby is concerned, as her immature kidneys aren’t able to process it. Any salt that your baby needs will be provided by the breast or formula milk she’s still drinking. Baby food doesn’t contain added salt and you should never add any salt to your home-made purées. This also means that you need to avoid giving your baby certain types of food that have a lot of salt in them – this includes some meats and cheeses, smoked and processed foods, and sauces that aren’t designed for babies to eat.

Sugar

There’s no need for sugar in a baby’s diet and the last thing you want to do is encourage a sweet tooth. If you want to give your baby something sweet then give her fruit, such as mashed banana, or use breast milk to sweeten up a dish.

Honey

This isn’t suitable for children under 12 months of age because it can contain toxins that may cause serious illness.

Fluids

If your baby is fully breastfed, she won’t need any water until she starts eating solids. Once she does start eating, water is the best possible drink for her. Make sure that it’s cooled, boiled water – bottled mineral water isn’t suitable for babies as it often has a high sodium content.

Fruit juice

This is acidic and full of fructose (fruit sugar). Drnking too much juice could rot her teeth and will also put her off drinking enough of the essential water and milk she needs. Don’t give your baby fruit juice before she’s six months old; after this offer only well-diluted pure unsweetened juice in a sippy cup, not a bottle. This is a good way of ensuring that your vegetarian baby better absorbs vegetable-source iron. On no account should you give your baby soda, coffee or tea.

Potential allergens

If you have a family history of food allergies avoid giving your baby wheat, eggs and peanuts until she’s over 12 months. Keep in mind too that cows’ milk shouldn’t be offered as a main drink until she’s over 12 months.

If you have any unanswered questions, use our answers page to get advice from other moms or our resident experts.

The information in this feature is intended for educational purposes only. If you have any concerns about your health, the health of your child or the health of someone you know, please consult with a doctor or other healthcare professional.

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