Smart Baby Food

Smart baby food is a common point of discussion among mothers groups today. Some love to buy jarred food for convenience at their local supermarket, others swear by steaming and pureeing their own.

Some people think raising a smart baby is based on genetics and others say it is all environmental. The fact is - both are important and play significat roles in raising a smart baby.

Daily nutrition however plays a hugely important role in helping to raise a smart baby and increasing future baby intelligence.

What is smart baby food and nutrition?

Simply put, the brain requires good nutrition to physically grow to its full potential.

The most critical time for brain development and brain growth occurs during the prenatal period and the first few years of life.

According to research, the brain produces almost all of its estimated 200 billion brain cells, during the prenatal period.

The baby's head grows rapidly because the brain grows rapidly. Studies and clinical observation have shown that during the prenatal and early childhood period, the brain needs an abundant supply of proteins and omega-3 fatty acids.

Protein deprivation in animals shows that the number of neurons in the part of the brain important for learning and memory is reduced.

The good news is that a plentiful supply of these nutrients can have very good effects.

Studies suggest that breastmilk is better for babies than formula because of the omega-3 fatty acid content available in breastmilk. It is thought that perhaps omega-3 fatty acids enable neurons to grow bigger and make more synapses for learning and memory.

Nutrients from foods also have been reported to affect mood, improve learning and memory and reduce pain.

Smart baby food include:

• breastmilk (see feeding your baby for guidance with breastfeeding);

Then when baby is on solids and is allowed various foods at appropriate ages, encourage them to eat:

• eggs;
• dairy products;
• fish;
• (nuts - later when tolerable);
• any fruits and vegetables they will eat;
• avocados;
• meats;
• healthy fibre sources such as such as raisins, dates, prunes apricots, peas, beans, rice, pasta and cereals;
• water for hydration.

Make sure you check what age your baby can consume various foods and always observe for any allergies.