When it comes to nutritious foods that are equally suitable and enjoyable for babies, toddlers, preschoolers, and older children few compare to the versatility and delicious simplicity offered up by avocados.
Perfect first food
According to a study in the journal Nutrients, avocado is a great food to offer babies who are transitioning from the bottle to solids because it has a neutral flavour and smooth consistency.
Avos are bursting with goodness
- Avocados boast vitamins B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, C, E, K, folate, potassium, iron, and magnesium. They’re also naturally sodium, cholesterol, and sugar-free.
- Babies need carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals for optimal growth during those first two vital development years. Avos help meet these nutritional requirements by providing potassium, vitamin E, iron, lutein and beta-carotene.
- Avos are also a source of fibre and monounsaturated fats and are energy-dense, all of which are great for growing babies. A serving of 1/2 cup contains 4.9 grams of fibre. This is 19.6 percent of the daily value, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements. Fibre helps to keep the digestive system moving, which is a benefit for kids who are prone to constipation.
- Avocados are rich in healthy fats, which are essential for growing kids. According to the USDA, avocados contain 7.153 grams of monounsaturated fat per 1/2-cup serving.
Easy to prepare
It’s a good thing avos are so easy to prepare! Busy moms and dads can add sliced avo to crackers or rice cakes or simply eat them out the skin for fuss-free snacks, or include diced avo in salads, pastas, or with grilled chicken or fish for a more substantial meal. For babies, mash avo for first meals (from six months), and cube avo for older babies and toddlers who are self-feeding.
