Baby Food for baby
One of the most nutritious vegetables, broccoli is best introduced into baby’s diet at around 10 months of age – rather than being one of the very first vegetables. This is because its high fibre content may be hard for an immature digestive system, and cause wind and discomfort.
Broccoli is good for baby (and you):
When broccoli is introduced, baby will be getting a food packed with many nutrients besides fibre: potassium to promote a healthy nervous system and brain development, calcium and vitamin K for bone health, and beta carotene – which the body converts into vitamin A to boost the immune system and aid eye health and vision. Vitamin C from broccoli will help fight diseases and suppress symptoms of the common cold.
Broccoli is truly a wonderful vegetable – but don’t overdo it, as there are some adverse indications of eating too much broccoli.
Hints on buying and storing:
- Choose broccoli with evenly-coloured florets – dark green, green/purple, or sage green according to variety.
- Check carefully for pale, yellow, or grey areas.
- Keep in the vegetable compartment of the refrigerator, loosely covered.
- Use within 3 to 4 days.
Tips on cooking:
- Always cook broccoli thoroughly for baby – not ‘al dente’
- Steaming retains the most nutrients.
- Nutrients may be lost by microwaving, so this is not recommended.
- Cook as part of a casserole.
Ideas for ways of including broccoli in your baby’s meals:
- Use a piece of cooked broccoli as a finger food – sprinkled with grated cheese.
- Combine with other vegetables – carrot, cauliflower, sweet or white potato, courgette (zucchini)
- Mix into cooked brown rice or lentils
- Add to chicken or beef dishes.
- Blend with tofu or yogurt.
Please remember: Always consult your baby’s paediatrician or doctor about introducing new foods.