100 Foods Before 1 Blw: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

Are you a new parent looking for the best food options for your little one? If yes, then you might have heard about the ‘100 foods before 1 BLW’ concept. This idea has gained immense popularity in recent times as it encourages parents to introduce their babies to a wide range of flavors and textures before they turn one. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about the 100 foods before 1 BLW approach.

What is 100 Foods Before 1 BLW?

BLW stands for Baby-Led Weaning, which is a feeding approach that allows babies to feed themselves by picking up food with their hands and putting it in their mouths. The 100 foods before 1 BLW concept suggests that parents should introduce their babies to a variety of foods (100 to be precise) before they turn one year old. This approach aims to encourage healthy eating habits and prevent picky eating in the future.

When Should You Start?

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, babies can start solid foods at around six months of age. However, it is essential to consult a pediatrician before introducing any new food to your baby’s diet. As the 100 foods before 1 BLW approach involves introducing a wide range of foods, it is crucial to start early to ensure that your baby gets enough time to explore different flavors and textures.

Benefits of 100 Foods Before 1 BLW

There are several benefits of the 100 foods before 1 BLW approach, including:

1. Encourages Healthy Eating Habits

Introducing a variety of foods at an early age can help develop a baby’s taste buds and encourage them to try new foods in the future.

2. Helps Prevent Picky Eating

Babies who are exposed to a variety of flavors and textures are less likely to become picky eaters in the future.

3. Boosts Nutritional Intake

A varied diet can ensure that your baby gets all the necessary nutrients, vitamins, and minerals required for healthy growth and development.

4. Helps Develop Fine Motor Skills

Baby-led weaning involves picking up food with hands, which can help develop fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination.

What Foods Should You Introduce?

The 100 foods before 1 BLW approach encourages parents to introduce a variety of foods, including fruits, vegetables, grains, dairy, and protein sources. Some examples of foods that you can introduce include:

– Avocado

– Sweet potato

– Broccoli

– Carrots

– Chicken

– Lentils

– Quinoa

– Cheese

– Blueberries

– Mango

How to Introduce New Foods?

The 100 foods before 1 BLW approach encourages parents to introduce new foods in a safe and controlled manner. Here are some tips to help you introduce new foods to your baby:

1. Start with Small Quantities

Start with a small amount of a new food and gradually increase the quantity as your baby becomes more comfortable with it.

2. Offer a Variety of Textures

Introduce foods with different textures, such as purees, soft foods, and finger foods, to help your baby develop their chewing and swallowing skills.

3. Avoid Choking Hazards

Avoid foods that pose a choking hazard, such as popcorn, nuts, and grapes. Cut foods into small pieces or use a mesh feeder to reduce the risk of choking.

Conclusion

The 100 foods before 1 BLW approach is a great way to introduce your baby to a variety of foods and encourage healthy eating habits. Remember to consult a pediatrician before introducing any new food to your baby’s diet and to start early to ensure that your baby gets enough time to explore new flavors and textures. Happy feeding!