I am sure that there are moms out there – especially the brand new ones – who constantly think and sometimes worry about the proper nutrition for their little ones. I have done a bit of research and put together some valuable tips, that I think will help. Please add your comments and any additional information you may have or have learned from experience. Your input is always welcomed!

Tips on Baby Nutrition:

Infants – 0-6 months:

• This is the time period that babies get their nutrition form breast milk or formulas. Ensuring that mom gets all the nutrients becomes the important thing here. A breastfeeding mom should increase her calorie intake by 300 – 500 calori3es over her normal diet. This should include adding calcium, which is very important since lactation draws calcium out of your bones.

Infants – 6-12 months:

• If you baby is able to sit up and  hold objects, try to give him some solid food and see if he will attempt to feed himself. Some babies are ready to do this at 6 months, other need to wait til they are 8 months old – that is completely natural. Organic food are a great choice for your baby – babies are vulnerable to pesticides, because their brain, immune system and detoxification system is still developing. Nutritious food include brown rice, carrots, sweet potatoes and oatmeal, since they are nutrient dense and rich in fibre. great way to introduce your baby to what you eat (ultimately, that is what you will be feeding him or her anyway) is to start pureeing the foods you eat and giving it to your baby.

Infants 12+ months:

• Depending on their age, size and activity level, toddlers will need about 1000 – 1400 calories a day. It is important to remember, that their appetite will decrease at this age, because their physical growth is slowing down. The bet is to teach them to eat 3 smaller meals a day plus two to three healthy snacks. And it is equally important to remember that about one th8ird of their dietary intake should be in a form of fat. That is necessary for proper brain development. Consider your toddler’s fat intake from milk, cheese, yogurt, meat, fish,chicken or eggs.

Supplements for children:

A daily multivitamins and supplements can make the most of your child’s health. here are a few other essentials that may not be included with multivitamins:

Omega-3 Fatty Acids – important for growth and development and help against future cardiovascular disease and behaviour problems

Calcium - help in developments of healthy bones and teeth and plays important role in muscle contraction as well as transmission of messages through the nerves and release of hormones.

Vitamin D - Helps to maintain normal blood levels of calcium and phosphorus to form and maintain strong bones

One of the best ways to ensure that your child is getting proper nutrition and have your questions answered is to contact you health provider – that will be the one thing that will put any mom’s mind at ease!