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Say Ahhh-pples!
The Appeal of Apples for First-time Eaters
By Donna Smith
An apple a day can't keep the doctor away for babies, but they are a great source of nutrition. "Apples have natural fruit sugars and apples and apple juice are also two of the best sources of the mineral boron, which may promote bone health," says Peggy O'Shea, a Boston-based registered dietitian and a member of the Massachusetts Dietetic Association board of directors. Apples are also a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, folate, fiber and potassium.
While a mashed banana is often looked upon as the best first fruit, apples also can be a fine choice as a first, or even a second or third, fruit, says O'Shea. "Soft applesauce is a good choice, and apples can even be boiled and mashed," she says. "You can even mix some applesauce in with Baby's cereal." She does caution that some babies may find apples (especially apple juice) to be a bit "gassy," so be careful to monitor your baby's comfort after eating.
For many babies, new foods may need to be introduced several times before being accepted. But don't give up! The sweet but tart taste of apple is sure to grow on them and become a favorite. And keep in mind that the process of introducing solid food intake is a gradual process and should be carefully monitored to make certain each new food is tolerated, says O'Shea.
According to O'Shea, babies are sometimes less likely to try a new food if they are very hungry, so try breastfeeding or giving your baby a bottle before introducing a new food. "Also, try mixing applesauce with cereal that baby is familiar with," she says. "This may encourage them to accept the new flavor."
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