Providing your baby with a healthy, nutritious meal doesn’t have to be a headache. If you’re looking to stay away from food in a jar and in need of some meal ideas, look no further. Here are a few easy ideas.
Poi. Take advantage of local food by giving your baby poi. Whether it’s made on Maui or another island, poi is more than ono. This fat-free superfood is a high-fiber, low-sodium starch. It’s gluten-free and is a source of vitamin B, calcium, and phosphorus, which help with the baby’s development. Take it to the beach or park on ice. It’s easy food for when you’re on the go.
Fruit bowl. There’s nothing better than fruit plucked by your very own hands, or at least grown and picked locally. Maui has a wonderful selection of island-grown fruit such as mangoes, papayas, bananas, and strawberries. Slice them to make a fruit bowl or blend them to make a refreshing smoothie. You can always freeze a batch for a cooling treat on a hot day. The health-boosting benefits of this blend include sources of vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin B6. Good for digestion, fruits are powerful antioxidants and help fight inflammation.
Yogurt. Yogurt is an easy food option for your baby. Apart from helping with digestion, it’s packed with vitamins, calcium, phosphorus, and protein, which aid bone growth. The best choices are full-fat, unsweetened, and organic. Yogurt can be added to applesauce, soups, and pureed vegetables.
Avocados. This fruit is high in protein and full of monounsaturated fat, keeping the baby satisfied for an hour. It’s an easy grab-and-go snack to take with you to the beach or park. Mash an avocado into a pulp, add a pinch of salt, and feed your baby.
Finger food. Steamed broccoli or carrots are ideal introductions to babies old enough to feed themselves. Ensure their consistency is soft enough to be easily digested, yet firm enough to hold. Don’t forget to check their temperature and make sure they are cool enough for baby. Broccoli is high in fiber, which helps loosen up bowels, and it also contains immune-boosting vitamin C. Carrots contain phytochemicals believed to protect against heart disease and certain cancers.
Feeling good about what you feed your baby is easy. Think simple, local, and sugar-free, and you’ll be giving your baby healthy eating habits that start from early on. It’s a win-win situation!
