Written by Swati Dave
As your baby grows, the nutritional requirements of the body also increase. Mostly for the first six months, their primary source of nutrition is breastmilk or formula under the supervision of the pediatrician. Thereafter vegetable and fruit purees are gradually introduced to supplement growth. However, the protein and iron needs of the body may not be adequately met just by these purees. This is where many parents raise the query “When can I give meat to baby?”.
As your baby starts eating other foods, they absorb less iron from breast milk. Vegetarian counterparts need to find alternate sources to meet these demands. Read below to know more everything about incorporating meat into your baby’s diet.
In This Article
After six months of age, once your baby has started using semi-solids such as mashed vegetables and fruits, you can start introducing them to pureed meat with a very thin, smooth texture (1). Usually, this is somewhere between 7-10 months. Your baby has not developed molars yet, so you need to puree meat so that it is easily swallowed by the baby.
Now pureeing meat may have a grainy texture which your little one may not like. If your baby displays an aversion to food after adding meat to it, then you should perhaps wait for a few days and then try giving it again. However, it is always better to follow the three-day rule when introducing any new foods to the baby. The introduction of meat to the baby is generally in the form of chicken or turkey, and red meats follow later after the molars sprout up.
You need to stick to one meat at a time, say, chicken, and puree it along with your baby’s favorite meal. Then gradually increase the content of chicken in it and with time, your baby will be able to enjoy chicken on its own.
Meat is high in protein, iron, zinc, and vitamin B12 (2) all of which help babies grow and develop faster. To expose babies to new flavors and textures, serve a variety of meat dishes:
The World Health Organization recommended that newborns start eating solid meals at 6 months of age to supplement breastfeeding, with meat commonly postponed until 7 to 10 months (3).
Being a parent, you must know what is best for your little one during their developmental years. To keep safe, consider the following suggestions.
Meats can be difficult to digest for the baby when compared to fruits and vegetables (4). To improve digestibility, it is necessary to break the fibers and connective tissues in the meat by cooking it thoroughly. Thus, no matter what meat you select for your baby, it should be thoroughly cooked.
Also make sure it is tender, without any bones, and moist. Slow cooking preserves the juices of the meat which enhances the flavor and is adequately cooked as well. Simply pop in a ton of veggies and woohoo! Your baby will be fed with a nutritional feast! It’s best to puree the meat when introducing it to your baby’s diet.
As your baby grows, you may give him tiny nibbles and later progress on to finger foods. Whether it’s fresh or frozen meat, first wash it thoroughly, cut it into small pieces, grind it in a mixer, and then cook. You may cook it with vegetables, boil it, or add it to mash. Some mums like to add potatoes or mashed carrots to meat as it keeps the puree smooth.
If your baby is 6 months old, they are still learning to adapt to solids. Hence, introducing meat at this age needs extra care. The first step is to cook the meat completely, any undercooked and raw meat can harm your little one. For easier slurping, you can puree it and blend it with other vegetables to bring consistency. Load a spoon and offer it to your baby, maintain an arm-length distance, and see if they are fine with the taste.
If your baby is 9 months old, then they are in the process of enjoying solids. Hence, if you see your baby doing fine after eating meat and enjoying the taste, you can continue giving them meat regularly. Cook the meat well shred it into small strips and offer it to your baby. Ensure not to offer large chunks or cubes, as this may lead to choking. You can also give mini meatballs at this age.
Well, your little one is a toddler now and is ready for finger foods. At this stage, you can even consider encouraging them to eat on their own. Cook the meat very well and cut into small cubes. You can even strip them vertically so that they can grab and eat it.
Find out some tips regarding introducing meat to baby:
Meat is a complete protein, with higher bioavailable iron than plant-based meals (5). Babies require proper nutrition during this period of rapid growth and development. Including the following meat benefits in your baby’s diet can considerably improve their general health and well-being (6).
Meat contains important nutrients such as protein, iron, and zinc, which are required for a baby’s growth and development (7). Iron promotes critical bodily activities such as immunity through the creation of RBCs.
Meat’s high protein and iron content promotes healthy brain development in babies (8).
Meat includes nutrients (iron, zinc, manganese, vit B12) that help improve a baby’s immune system and fight illnesses.
Meat contains quality proteins and healthy lipids, which provide a sustainable energy source for active babies. Protein aids in the regulation of the body’s metabolism as well as the development of strong bones and muscles.
Meat is not only a source of iron. It can help improve iron absorption from other foods, leading to better nutritional absorption and overall digestive health (9).
Meat is not a potential allergen and does not pose any harm to babies. However, some babies can be allergic to meat. While this side effect may or may not last, you should stop giving meat to your baby immediately if you observe any such reactions. Give them some time and then introduce them when they are completely fine. Here are a few symptoms that you may notice if your baby is allergic to meat.
The meat-based diet has plenty of iron, high-quality protein, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. Regular intake of meat has been demonstrated to assist growing kids in maintaining their hemoglobin levels and boosting physical stamina.
With each passing month, your baby’s palate expands as they develop new favorite foods and flavors. Minced or pureed red meat, combined with vegetables and lentils, can provide a nutritious and filling meal for the baby. Make a slow start, giving red meat two or three times per week. If the baby can digest it and is not sensitive to red meat, you can slowly increase the frequency. Here are a few things to consider when giving meat to babies.
You can give meat to your baby twice or thrice a week. Babies need all kinds of nutrients for their growing body which includes fruits and vegetables. Hence, it is better to have a scheduled meal plan for your little one once they are on solids.
Protein is a vital nutrient that your baby needs. It plays a key role in building healthy bones and muscles. Hence, it is better to include a protein rich meal at least once in a day.
Meat is not a potential allergen, but some babies may be allergic to meat. If you see any symptoms like itching, hives, redness, diarrhea and vomiting in your baby after feeding meat, contact your doctor immediately.
Meat can be a chocking hazard for babies. Hence, it is very important to cook it completely and puree it before you offer it as the first solid food for your little one.
All sorts of meat are healthy for babies. To begin, the baby will consume barely a teaspoon or two. So cook meat in small amounts. Accordingly, try introducing one new food item at a time within a week.
References:
Millets For Babies – When to Introduce Benefits & Precautions
Oatmeal For Breastfeeding Mothers – Does it Increase Breast Milk Supply?
ORS For Babies – Is it Safe, How Much to Give and Top Benefits
Top 10 Amazing Baby Boy Photoshoot Ideas to Try at Home
Baby Chewing Tongue – Top Reasons and Tips to Deal With it
Tips and Ideas For Selecting Baby’s First Birthday Dress For Boys
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