Is baby cereal necessary?

Is baby cereal necessary?

There certainly are reasons why baby cereal is a logical choice for first food. It’s generally easy to digest and iron-fortified which most babies need. It is also considered to be a low-allergen food (particularly rice cereal). 4 However, these needs can also be met via naturally iron-rich foods.

Can I skip giving my baby cereal?

Besides, life was easier before solid foods! That being said, it is important that your baby have opportunities to try solid foods around 6 months, because around this age, breastfed babies in particular need to start eating iron- and zinc-rich foods. 2. You can skip the white rice cereal.

Is baby cereal bad for adults?

“Baby food is lacking adequate amounts of fiber, fat, and protein to sustain a healthy adult. This puréed, and often strained, food is created for babies with underdeveloped digestive systems,” says Cooking Light assistant nutrition editor Jamie Vespa, MS, RD.

How much rice cereal should I give my 4 month old?

4 to 6 months: 1 to 4 tablespoons of cereal once or twice a day. 1 to 4 tablespoons of a fruit and vegetable once or twice a day.

Is rice cereal or oatmeal better for babies?

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends oatmeal cereal for babies with acid reflux. Because of the possible arsenic exposure with rice cereal, experts believe oatmeal is the safer choice. It’s also wheat-free, so won’t irritate your baby’s stomach if she is sensitive or allergic to gluten.

Is Gerber baby cereal safe?

Gerber baby foods are absolutely safe and healthy for your baby and comply with all FDA requirements. Metals are naturally found in soil and water and can become part of fruits, vegetables, and grains as they grow. 100% of our foods meet all FDA safety requirements and our own strict standards.

Can you start a baby on oatmeal instead of rice cereal?

Because of the possible arsenic exposure with rice cereal, experts believe oatmeal is the safer choice. It’s also wheat-free, so won’t irritate your baby’s stomach if she is sensitive or allergic to gluten.

What can I use instead of baby cereal?

Meat, poultry, beans, tofu and enriched pasta are common foods to start with instead. When babies start solids, it’s imperative that iron-rich foods are introduced. That’s because babies are born with a reserve of iron that begins to deplete by six month of age if they are breastfed.