Hello.. my son is 8 months old and he likes only fruits and fruit porridge as they are sweet..he doesn’t eat vegetables and other savoury dishes

Question

Accepted Answer

Namaste Mom,

What you can do is at times try to make him sit along with you when you are eating, and make him taste food from your plate this helps to almost get them a taste of usual foods .

Other is add some small amount of jaggery . or use cinnamon powder.

Answer

It's common for babies to develop a preference for sweet flavors, but it's important to introduce a variety of tastes and textures to ensure balanced nutrition. Here are some tips to help your 8-month-old son gradually start enjoying vegetables and savory dishes:

1. **Mix Fruits with Vegetables:** Start by mixing small amounts of vegetables with fruits he already likes. For example, you can puree carrots, sweet potatoes, or butternut squash with apples or pears. This way, he gets the sweetness he enjoys along with the nutrition of vegetables.

2. **Gradual Introduction:** Gradually increase the proportion of vegetables in the mix while decreasing the amount of fruit. This will help him get used to the taste of vegetables over time.

3. **Flavor Combinations:** Add natural sweetness to vegetables by combining them with naturally sweet vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, or corn. You can also use breast milk or formula to make the flavor more familiar.

4. **Finger Foods:** Offer steamed or soft-cooked vegetables as finger foods. Sometimes the texture and the act of self-feeding can make vegetables more appealing.

5. **Role Modeling:** Eat vegetables together as a family. Babies often imitate what they see, so if they see you enjoying vegetables, they may be more inclined to try them.

6. **Be Patient and Persistent:** It can take several attempts before a baby accepts a new food. Offer vegetables regularly without forcing him to eat them. Even a small taste is progress.

7. **Create Fun Shapes:** Present vegetables in fun shapes or arrange them attractively on the plate. This can make mealtime more interesting for him.

8. **Avoid Sugar and Salt:** Refrain from adding sugar or salt to his food to encourage him to appreciate the natural flavors of fruits and vegetables.

9. **Blend Savory Dishes:** If he prefers smooth textures, try blending savory dishes to a similar consistency as fruit porridge. You can add a little fruit to the blend at first and gradually reduce it.

10. **Involve Him:** Let your son watch or help (in age-appropriate ways) with the preparation of his food. This involvement can sometimes pique his interest in trying new foods.

If your son continues to be resistant to vegetables, don't worry too much, but keep offering them regularly without pressure. Over time, his taste preferences may expand.