Caring for a newborn is never easy for mothers. Many mothers believe that feeding their babies spicy and diverse foods will make them eat better. But why do nutrition experts recommend a bland diet for infants?
1 What is a Bland Diet for Newborns?
A bland diet for newborns, often referred to as the BRAT diet, includes Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, and Toast. These foods are low in fiber, have a soft texture, and mild flavors, making them ideal for infants with digestive issues like diarrhea.
BRAT Diet
A bland diet for infants typically includes:
- Filtered water, breast milk, formula, fruit juices, oral rehydration solutions, and unsalted bone broth.
- Cooked cereals (oatmeal, wheat), mashed bananas, applesauce, pureed cooked vegetables and fruits, rice, soup, etc.
- Dry toast, crackers, and other dry, crisp foods.
Foods to Include in a Bland Diet
On the other hand, here are some foods to avoid when feeding your infant a bland diet:
- Fried foods.
- Foods containing high levels of processed sugar, such as candy, cookies, and sweetened beverages.
- Acid fruits like oranges, lemons, and grapefruit.
Foods to Avoid in a Bland Diet
The BRAT diet is only recommended for a short duration to help manage digestive issues. It is not a long-term solution as it lacks the necessary nutrients and macro-nutrients required for healing and overall health.
2 Should You Follow a Bland Diet for Your Newborn?
The answer is likely no. While the concept of gradually introducing stronger flavors to a baby’s diet is popular in some countries like the US, there is no scientific evidence to support this approach.
In many other cultures, it is common to introduce spicy and salty foods to infants from the start of weaning, and this does not seem to negatively impact their development.
Parents can confidently offer their babies a variety of flavors and spices right from the beginning. Since newborns eat very small portions, any added spices or seasonings should be adjusted accordingly.
Stimulating Your Baby’s Taste Buds
By varying the spices and flavors in your baby’s food, you can observe their reactions and discover their developing preferences. To maintain a healthy diet, limit the use of less beneficial additives like sugar and salt.
While the BRAT diet is healthy, prolonged adherence can lead to malnutrition. Thus, it is crucial to instill healthy eating habits and provide a well-rounded diet to ensure your baby’s natural development.
A child’s safe development is always a primary concern for parents. Hopefully, this article has provided a comprehensive overview of bland diets for newborns and helped you make informed decisions about your child’s nutrition.
Source: Vinmec
