Our children can often be extremely demanding, which is why many of the superfoods they need are usually not part of their diet. Are you afraid you’re cooking spinach because your little one might not want to eat it? Perseverance is the key! Plus a drop of creativity. Find out which are the best superfoods for your baby’s diet and introduce them to their food routine as quickly as possible!
Fish and seafood
Fish is an excellent source of DHA, a beneficial omega-3 fatty acid in brain development. If your kid is not crazy about wild salmon or fresh tuna, try shrimp for a milder flavor and a softer texture. Cook the fish in the oven or use it in a pasta salad for a healthy mixed dish.
Seeds
Sunflower, hemp, flax and chia seeds help children satisfy their need for healthy fats, magnesium, protein and fiber. Include the seeds in snacks, sprinkle them over soups or salads and use them in different recipes. Flax seeds are best stored in the refrigerator, like most other seeds. The exception is chia seeds, which can be safely stored in a cabinet.
Forest fruits
Forest fruits also help kids get their daily dose of fibers, and many children are unfortunately not getting enough. Frozen fruits are also a great alternative if you cannot find fresh ones in stores.
Salads
We have all heard about the nutritional superiority of green vegetables. They are rich in iron, calcium, fiber, vitamin C and omega-3 fatty acids. Recent research shows that babies to whom vegetables are introduced in simple forms from the beginning of life are more susceptible to eating even unfamiliar vegetables later on. Be patient – some children have to see the food a dozen times before they have the courage to try it.
Vegetables and orange fruits
Even if the little one is not a huge fan of sweet potatoes, pumpkin or carrots, sweet fruits such as mango, papaya or cantalup can offer the same content of vitamins A and C, potassium and lycopene. However, you should not avoid introducing vegetables into your baby’s diet just because they do not want them! Try preparing them in different ways so they will be tempted to finally try them out!
Plain yoghurt
Plain yoghurt is a “superhero” for your kid. It is full of healthy bacteria, protein and calcium – all the good things our children need. Do not feel obliged to buy a certain kind of “baby” yoghurt with added sugar or fruits. They are often more expensive and contain lots of sugar, and will not help the child learn to appreciate the healthy taste of simple yogurt. You can also try adding honey or jam for taste, but only occasionally.
Whole grains
From the most traditional types of grains, such as brown rice and whole wheat pasta to the most exotic ones, such as quinoa and buckwheat – whole grains are very important in the development of children. Considering their ability to reduce the risk of chronic illness in the future and to stimulate nutrition, whole grains should not be missing from the diet of your child.
Oats
Oats are sometimes overlooked as breakfast foods, especially when compared to cereal. However, they can be much healtier for your kid, so try introducing them to his diet occasionally! Search for the most fun oatmeal recipes and try to make the preparation as colorful as possible so that your kid is tempted to try it out!
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