Do you get enough fruits and veggies in your diet on a daily basis? I know I sure don’t!
I have to start by saying that I am by no means a health professional, dietician or educated in any way with respect to what the body needs in terms of fruits and veggies. I am, however, a mom of a nine-month old that is working every day to: 1. ensure my baby has a healthy diet; and 2. ensure I have a healthy diet while working to get my “pre-baby” body back!
That being said, I find it REALLY hard to get the necessary daily fruit and veggie intake. I think salads are boring, and an apple just doesn’t do it for me. Further, it is also difficult to find fruits and veggies that are both yummy for me, and baby-friendly in terms of Jax being able to eat them with his hands (i.e. something other than purees and food pouches).
The solution? Well, it all really boils down to going out and finding those foods that work. Good news is that now that summer is here, I find it is a great time to indulge in all the yummy produce that is offered.
So my advice is simple — Get out to your local supermarket — or better yet, shop local — hit up your local produce market, farmer’s market or garden/orchard!I find that summer brings so many delicious options that you can enjoy and that are also easy for baby to eat too!!!!
A couple that I find work great for both mom and baby (*even if you are not a mom, these foods are sure to entice any palate):
- avocados
- nectarines
- peaches
- apricots
- mangos
- watermelon
- cantaloupe
- honeydew
- pears
- blueberries (cut in small pieces or mushed in cereals for baby)
- apples
- bananas
- tomatos
- cucumbers
- cooked or raw carrots
- cooked or raw zucchini
- strawberries
- cherries (seed removed before sharing with baby)
- blackberries
- raspberries
- peas (cut in small pieces or mushed for baby)
Lastly, I have to mention that “Naked” smoothies are now being sold at Costco in a “mini-form” that you can buy in bulk! This works great for those of us on the go, and each one has 3 servings or fruit and/or vegetables! Plus, they are pasteurized! Amazing!
Happy fruit and veggie eating!
M.J.
