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Written by Navneet Kaur, M.Sc. Nutrition & Dietetics
Diet
Weaning foods or baby foods, also known as complementary foods, are introduced to infants as they transition from breastfeeding or formula feeding to eating solid foods. In Indian cuisine, there are several traditional dishes that are commonly used as weaning foods due to their nutritional value and ease of digestion. Here are some Indian weaning food dishes:
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Cooked rice is blended or mashed to create a smooth, easily digestible porridge for infants. It can be prepared with breast milk or formula for added nutrients.
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This dish combines rice and moong dal (split green gram) with mild spices, making it a nutritious and gentle option for babies.
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Roasted Suji is cooked and blended to create a creamy porridge. It is rich in fibre and nutrients, making them a great choice for introducing solids.
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Ragi is a nutritious grain that is often used as a weaning food. It can be made into a porridge by cooking and blending the ragi flour with water.
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Carrots and potatoes are boiled and mashed together to create a soft and colourful dish for babies.
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Ripe bananas are mashed or pureed to create a smooth and naturally sweet dish that is easy for babies to consume.
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Apples are cooked, peeled, and pureed to create a nutritious and slightly sweet fruit puree.
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Sweet potatoes are boiled and mashed to create a creamy and nutrient-rich dish for babies.
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Plain, unsweetened yoghurt can be introduced as a source of probiotics and calcium.
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Spinach is cooked, blended, and strained to create a smooth and iron-rich puree.
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Pumpkin is cooked and pureed to create a soft and nutritious dish for infants.
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Dalia is cooked and blended to create a nutritious and easily digestible porridge.
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Remember to consult with a paediatrician before introducing any new foods to your baby's diet, especially if there are concerns about allergies or sensitivities. Additionally, ensure that the foods are prepared in a safe and hygienic manner to ensure the baby's health and well-being.
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