#asktheexpert what are the foods given for 12 month baby?

Question

Accepted Answer

When introducing solid foods to a 12-month-old baby in India, it's important to provide a balanced and varied diet that meets their nutritional needs. Here are some suitable Indian foods for a 12-month-old:

1. **Khichdi:** A well-cooked khichdi made with rice, lentils (dal), and vegetables is a nutritious and easily digestible option.

2. **Soft Chapati or Roti:** Tear small, soft pieces of chapati or roti and offer them to your baby. You can also dip them in dal for added flavor.

3. **Vegetable Purees:** Introduce a variety of single-ingredient vegetable purees such as carrots, sweet potatoes, peas, and pumpkin.

4. **Fruit Cubes or Pieces:** Offer small, bite-sized pieces of fruits like banana, apple, pear, and papaya. Ensure that the fruits are cut into appropriate sizes to prevent choking.

5. **Dosa or Idli:** Soft dosas or steamed idlis made from a batter of fermented rice and urad dal can be cut into small pieces for easy consumption.

6. **Paneer (Indian Cottage Cheese):** Mashed or grated paneer can be introduced for protein and calcium.

7. **Ragi (Finger Millet) Porridge:** Cook ragi flour with water or milk to make a nutritious porridge rich in calcium and iron.

8. **Yogurt with Soft Fruits:** Plain, full-fat yogurt with soft fruits like mashed banana or berries can provide calcium and probiotics.

9. **Boiled and Mashed Potatoes:** Offer small portions of boiled and mashed potatoes for carbohydrates.

10. **Homemade Soups:** Prepare mild vegetable or dal soups to introduce different flavors and nutrients.

11. **Homemade Snacks:** Offer homemade snacks like puffed rice (murmura), boiled and mashed vegetables, or small pieces of soft cheese.

12. **Soft Cooked Eggs:** Introduce well-cooked and finely chopped eggs for a source of protein.

Remember to introduce one new food at a time and monitor your baby for any signs of allergies. Gradually increase the variety of foods as your baby becomes accustomed to different tastes and textures. Always ensure that the food is cut into small, manageable pieces to reduce the risk of choking. Additionally, consult with your pediatrician to ensure you are meeting your baby's nutritional needs as they transition to a more diverse diet.