Cereals are the most frequently prescribed first solid foods. Cereals are designed to meet the special needs of young infants. They are bland and palatable. Thoroughly precooked and low in crude fiber, they are readily digested.They have a creamy texture and consistency when stirred into milk, formula or other liquid.
Babies have high iron requirements. Milk supplies very little. As usually used, strained foods contribute some but not enough. That's why iron-enriched dry baby cereals have been widely available and prescribed for over forty years. One-half ounce (six tablespoons) of any cereal meets an infant's full daily recommended dietary allowance for iron.
As further aids to your baby's well being, important B-vitamins (thiamine, niacin and riboflavin), calcium and phosphorous are added to cereals. Cereals are good sources of calories and most supply at least moderate amounts of proteins.
Of all baby foods, the iron and vitamin enriched cereals can meet special infant needs for the longest time.They are protective against iron-deficiency anemia throughout the first and even second year.
You will find cereals just as convenient and economical as they are nourishing. They mix with liquids instantly, requiring no cooking or straining. The smallest portion can be prepared without waste of cereal, fuel or time.
In addition to directing when cereal or other solid food is started, the doctor may be quite specific about which one to give first. Definite directions should be followed closely.
Mix the chosen first cereal according to directions on the package. It forms a creamy smooth mixture faster if you stir the cereal into the liquid - not vice versa.
If all goes well, repeat this same food three or four consecutive days before starting on a new one. This is a wise procedure when introducing every new food. Most foods agree with most babies. But if one doesn't, it's easier to spot the offender if it is the only new food given during a few days.
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