#asktheexpert Can I add a little bit of green chilli to my 11.5 month old daughter's food. As she is more interested in our food than her food(which has pepper powder and no salt)

Question

Accepted Answer

It's understandable that your 11.5-month-old daughter shows more interest in the family's food, which is often more flavorful than her own. Introducing her to a wider variety of flavors can be a great way to encourage her to eat, but it's important to do so carefully, especially when it comes to spices like green chili.

### Considerations for Adding Green Chili:

1. **Spiciness and Digestive Sensitivity:**
   - Babies have sensitive digestive systems, and spicy foods like green chili can be too harsh for them. Even a small amount can cause discomfort, irritation, or an upset stomach.

2. **Risk of Allergies and Reactions:**
   - Introducing too many new ingredients at once can make it difficult to identify the cause if your baby has an allergic reaction. It's generally a good idea to introduce new foods one at a time.

3. **Gradual Introduction to Spices:**
   - Instead of green chili, you might consider starting with milder spices. Babies can usually handle small amounts of mild spices like cumin, coriander, turmeric, or a small pinch of black pepper once they are close to a year old. These can add flavor without the intense heat of chili.

### Tips for Making Your Food Suitable for Your Baby:

- **Flavorful but Mild Options:** Instead of adding green chili, you can flavor your baby's food with other herbs and mild spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or a tiny pinch of cumin powder. This can make the food more interesting without causing digestive issues.
  
- **Avoid Too Much Salt:** It's recommended to avoid adding salt to a baby's food until they are at least 1 year old. Even after 1 year, salt should be used sparingly because a baby's kidneys are still developing.

- **Family Food in Moderation:** You can gradually start to offer your daughter small portions of the food the family eats, as long as it's not too spicy, salty, or heavily seasoned. This helps her get accustomed to the family diet while ensuring it's appropriate for her age.

- **Watch for Reactions:** Whenever you introduce a new ingredient, watch for any signs of allergic reactions or digestive discomfort, such as a rash, diarrhea, or vomiting.

### Conclusion:

While it's best to avoid adding green chili to your baby’s food at this stage, you can introduce a variety of flavors with milder spices. Make her meals more exciting by mimicking the flavors of family dishes in a baby-friendly way, ensuring her food is nutritious and easy to digest. If you have any concerns about your baby's diet or introducing new foods, consulting your pediatrician can provide personalized guidance.