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Can I Give Finger Foods If My Baby Doesn’t Have Teeth Yet?

by with No Comment Baby Led WeaningChild & Family NutritionInfant Nutrition

One of the biggest changes in infant feeding over the last decade is how we think about textures. Gone are the days when spoon-fed purées were the only way to start solids. Current infant feeding guidelines recommend introducing a variety of textures within the first few months of starting solids including soft finger foods.

As a dietitian, I’m often asked this question:

“My baby doesn’t have any teeth yet. Can I still offer finger foods?”

ANSWER: YES !!!

BABIES CHEW WITH THEIR GUMS

Many babies start solids around 6 months and at this age, most don’t have teeth (or may only have a few by 12 months). That’s okay! Babies use their gums and tongue to mash and manipulate food.

WHY SOFT FINGER FOODS 

Soft finger foods are perfectly safe as long as they are prepared in the right size and texture. Introducing finger foods early, soon after starting solids, helps babies practice chewing skills (even without teeth), supports hand-eye coordination and self-feeding. Also, it can reduce the risk of picky eating later by exposing them to a variety of textures. Last, it encourages participation in family meals from the start.

 

SIGNS YOUR BABY IS READY FOR FINGER FOODS

Most babies are ready for soft finger foods between 6-7 months, some babies start right at 6 months. Many won’t have teeth (or very many teeth) by this age. Look for these development signs:

  • Can sit upright with little or no support.
  • Has good head and neck control.
  • Show interest in food, watching people eat and reaching for food.
  • Lost the tongue-thrust reflex (food doesn’t just push straight back out).
  • Can grasp small objects or food and bring it to their mouth.

 

SAFE FINGER FOOD IDEAS FOR BABIES 

When starting with finger foods, choose foods that are soft, easy to mash with gums, and cut into baby-safe sizes. Aim to include a balance from all four food groups.

Vegetables (soft cooked) and Fruits (ripe)

  • Steamed or roasted carrot sticks, broccoli florets, zucchini, pumpkin, or sweet potato wedges.
  • Ripe, peeled fruit slices: pears, peach, mango, papaya, avocado, banana, melon, kiwi.
  • Apple slices (steamed or baked until soft).
  • Grapes and blueberries: always cut into quarters to reduce choking risk.

Grain & Starches 

  • Strips or whole wheat toast or tortilla.
  • Small pieces of roti or chapati.
  • Well-cooked pasta (penne or fusilli)
  • Rice balls (sticky rice or mixed with mashed vegetables).
  • Oat-based foods such as pancakes or oatmeal fingers.

Dairy

  • Soft cheese strips (mozzarella, mild cheddar).
  • Full-fat, plain yogurt (serve in a bowl or allow baby to self-feed with a preloaded spoon).
  • Cottage cheese or ricotta (pre-loaded spoon).

Proteins (soft and well-cooked)

  • Shredded chicken, turkey, or slow-cooked beef/lamb.
  • Flaked fish (deboned, low-mercury options like salmon or sardines).
  • Omelet strips, scrambled eggs, or hard-boiled egg wedges.
  • Soft tofu or tempeh cubes.
  • Mashed beans or lentils (or shape into soft patties).
  • Thin spread of smooth nut or seed butter on toast.

Mealtimes will be messy and slow at first. This is part of learning how to eat.

 

FOODS TO AVOID 

Certain foods pose choking or safety risks and should be avoided:

  • Whole nuts or seeds
  • Raisins and other dried fruit
  • Popcorn, hard crackers, or raw hard vegetables (like raw carrot)
  • Hard candies, jellybeans, gum
  • Sticky foods such as large spoonfuls or nut butter

No HONEY during baby’s first year. Honey may cause infant botulism, a type of food poisoning, that could make your baby sick.

 

WHY TEXTURE PROGRESSION MATTERS 

Research shows that delaying textured foods beyond 9–10 months can increase the risk of feeding difficulties and picky eating later. Offering finger foods early helps babies develop chewing skills, tolerance to textures, and confidence with self-feeding.

A recent review highlights that both spoon-fed purées and BLW approaches can be appropriate but all babies benefit from early exposure to a variety of safe textures.

 

BOTTOM LINE

You don’t need to wait for teeth before offering finger foods. Babies are capable of mashing soft foods with their gums and learning the skills they’ll need for eating a wide variety of foods.

Start around 6 months, follow your baby’s readiness cues, and offer a variety of safe textures from purées to finger foods. Messy mealtimes, gagging, and experimenting are all part of the learning process.

Finger foods are not only safe, they’re an essential part of helping your baby grow into a confident, adventurous eater.

Looking for more tips to make Baby-Led Weaning simple and successful? Join our online course, Baby’s First Bites, and discover practical strategies, recipes, and guidance to help your baby enjoy mealtimes.

 

Update: August 25, 2025

How to Start Solid Foods

How to Start Solid Foods

by with No Comment Baby Led WeaningChild & Family NutritionInfant NutritionToddler Nutrition

Last blog we discussed When to Introduce Your Baby Solid Foods. It is important to wait until healthy babies are at least 6 months old before starting solid foods to maximize exclusive breastfeeding and ensure their digestive systems are mature enough to handle solid foods.

 

START FROM HOW 

Today, let’s talk about HOW to introduce solids. Get your camera ready, you’ll want to capture those funny faces your baby makes. Here are some tips to help make the transition to solids easier:

1. Choose a Good Mood

Introduce new foods when your baby is alert, relaxed and happy. Offering food after breastfeeding (waiting 60-90 minutes) or after a nap can increase the chance that your baby will try a new food.

2. Introduce 1 New Food a Day

Offering  a variety of foods can set your baby up to be a more adventurous eater. The ONLY exception is highly allergenic foods. You can start introducing them around 6 months, but wait 1-2 days before adding another allergenic food to monitor for potential allergies.

3. Start with Small Amounts

Offer just 1-3 tsp (5-15 mL) of food. If baby shows signs of hunger, you can offer more.

4. Follow Baby’s Cues

Sit your baby in a high chair at approximately eye level. Hold the spoon a few inches in front of their mouth and wait for them to open up. Feed as slowly or quickly as they prefer and stop when they show signs of fullness. If you’re following  Baby-Led Weaning approach, let your baby take the lead in eating.  NEVER FORCE YOUR BABY TO EAT, AND REMEMBER NOT TO COMPARE YOUR BABY TO OTHERS.

5. Start with Once a Day

Begin by offering solid foods once daily. Soon, baby will be ready to eat more often. Gradually increase to 2 times per day, then to 3 times.

6. Offer New Flavours

Some babies are cautious eaters and need time to trust that a new food is safe. It can take multiple attempts (approximately 15 times) before they’re willing to eat a particular food.

7. Let Your Baby Explore

Expect a bit of a mess. Messy hands and faces help babies get used to new foods. So let them have fun with it.

8. Be Aware of Changing Appetite 

Baby’s appetite will vary daily. From 6-12 months, they will gradually drink less breast milk and eat more solids.

Be mindful of your baby’s hunger and fullness cues. Avoid forcing or over-feeding.

HUNGER SIGNS 

  • Smiles, gazes or coos at the parent during mealtimes to show they wants to continue
  • Leans toward the spoon or food and opens their mouth
  • Reaches for or points to food
  • Shows excitement when food is offered
  • Focuses on and follows food with their eyes
  • Sucks or smacks lips
  • Uses words, sounds, or hand signs to indicate hunger or wanting more (older babies)

FULLNESS SIGNS 

  • Slows pace of eating
  • Get distracted easily or shows uninterested in food
  • Moves head away from spoon or closes mouth
  • Bats at spoon or pushes it away
  • Pushes food away or throws it on the floor
  • Plays with food or fidgets
  • Closes or purses lips when offered food
  • Spit food out
  • Tries to leave the highchair
  • Uses words or signs to signal “all done” (older babies)

FEEDING ESSENTIAL TOOLS 

With so many baby-feeding products available, it can feel overwhelming to decide what you truly need to start solids. Here are the TOP 6 essential tools to help you get started:

1. High Chair or Booster Seat

  • I believe an actual high chair is a must-have. It’s helpful to have a dedicated seat for your baby, and the large high chair tray makes a great food-catcher. The IKEA Antilop high chair with tray is totally affordable.

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  • A booster seat can easily strap onto your own chairs. This seat is foldable for easy storage. I’ve taken it along for visits to the grandparents and to restaurants – it’s super handy.

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2. Bibs

  • You can certainly use the  drooler/cloth bibs. However keep in mind they’ll need to be washed after each use.

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  • I recommend getting a set of larger, waterproof, easy-to-clean feeding bibs. I prefer ones with big front pocket to catch any dropped food.

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  • If your baby is an active explorer, your may prefer the Kushies Long Sleeved Waterproof Bib. It allows your little one to fully enjoy mealtimes without the worry of ruining their clothes.

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3. Spoons

  • Make sure that any spoons you use are BPA-free. BPA is a harmful chemical found in some plastics that can leach into food when heated.
  • Munchkin 6-Pack Soft Tip Infant Spoon: These small, plastic-coated options are much gentle on tender gums. It’s helpful to have several on hand during feedings, one for you and one for baby, to encourage their sense of independence and avoid power struggles.

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  • Once your baby is ready to try self-feeding, consider getting the OXO tot Fork & Spoon Set. This set makes it easy for young eaters to transition their food from bowl to mouth.

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4. Dishes

  • When you first introduce solids, you will need a handful of small, BPA-free plastic bowls.

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  • Calibowl. This deep bowl makes it easier for your baby to scoop up their food, while the super suction cup on the bottom prevents it from being tossed to the floor. It also includes fitted lids, making food storage a breeze.

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  • Once your baby is ready to try self-feeding, consider picking up a divided plate like the OXO tot Divided Plate. I like the removable, raised outer ring. which helps keep food on the plate and guides it into utensils.

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5. Straw Cup or Open Cup with/without handles

  • My son wasn’t a big fan of bottle, so I was very anxious to introduce a straw cup around 6 months. He would often bite on the straw, but he would sip from it occasionally. Using a straw cup does not present the same concerns as a sippy cup. In fact, It can help with oral motor skills development and reduce the risk of dental caries since the liquid doesn’t bathe the baby’s teeth. Here are three straw cups that I recommend:
    • Playtex Sipsters Stage 1 Straw Cuptrainingtime_out_of_pack_green_blue_straw_290x334
    • Munchkin Click Lock Weighted Flexi Straw Trainer Cup71MMm8ir4EL._SY355_
    • Playtex Sipsters Stage 3 Insulated Spill Proof Straw Cup
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  • Offer water in an OPEN CUP as soon as your baby starts eating solids. Babies learn quickly how to drink from an open cup.

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6. Snack Catcher

  • No more spilled snacks on the floor. This is the perfect solution for on-the-go situations, whether it’s a doctor’s appointment, shopping trip, grocery run, or evening walk.

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A HEALTHY FEEDING RELATIONSHIP 

Babies learn by observing those around them. When families eat together, it teaches babies that mealtime is a time to connect, share, and enjoy food.

  • As a PARENT;, your role is to choose WHAT foods to offer. As baby start to eat solid foods, your are responsible for WHEN and WHERE baby is fed.
  • It is your BABY’S job to determine HOW MUCH they want to eat.

Trust your baby to recognize their hunger and fullness cues. This fosters mindful eating. 

Introducing solids to your baby can be lot of fun. Be PATIENT and remember that it might take time for your baby to warm up to new foods; this is completely normal. If your baby enjoys every food from the first bite! Congratulations! you have a wonderful little eater.

Bon Appétit babies!

Happy Shopping Mommies!!

Chocolate Zucchini Cake

Chocolate Zucchini Cake

by with No Comment Recipes

Aiden turned TWO today. Whoa!! Happy Birthday to my little sweet heart.

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I am not all about birthday parties for a lot of reasons, as I witness my parents and friends planning bigger and expensive parties, I am more sure than ever in my decision to keep birthdays simple. Birthday celebrations are meant to be fun. However, they often turn into expensive nightmares with wasted food and unnecessary gifts. They also come year after year, which means the waste continues for years to come!!

Last year, we did not throw a 1st birthday party for Aiden, as I know he’s not going to remember it. Also, I was lazy !! I am not going to lie, as a first-time mom, I almost surviving the first year as a stay-at-home-mom. And it’s not like we didn’t celebrate, on the day of his actual first birthday, mother-in-law cooked a bowl of noodles with an egg and a drumstick for his lunch. Later, hubby bought a small piece of birthday cake, we sang a birthday song, blew out the candle, and let him smash the cake. Then we went to our favourite sushi restaurant for supper. A few days later, we had another birthday celebration on family gathering, we ordered a special cake for Aiden.

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This year, I was planning to bake a birthday cake for him, no birthday party, since he does not have any friends yet. When my colleague and I chatted about it, she suggested to take her granddaughters to come and celebrate the birthday of Aiden. Well, it is a super small party, just few adults and 3 small people.

A two-year old child can quickly become overwhelmed by having a lot of people around at once. My best is to keep the party short and simple. I quickly came out a menu and foods that I want to serve, went to dollar store to buy some birthday decorations.

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Instead of serving a sit-down meal, make it easy on yourself by setting up a food table where adults can help themselves to grub as they wish.

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As everyone know, the very best part of a birthday party is the cake. I always want to bake a cake for a significant other, now my dream comes true. This is the perfect recipe for a chocolate lover….also it is loaded with veggies!! Even my mum (she does not like sweet) loves it too!!

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Enjoy!

 

Recipe adapted from Great Grub Delicious Treats

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Special Note for My Dear Son: 

Dear Aiden, no matter how much you have grown, for us, you are always going to remain our dearest and smartest baby boy. As you blow the candle in your cake, always remember that your love is like a candle that will forever burn in our hearts. Happy Birthday, my little boy. Love.

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Aiden Birthday

Chocolate Zucchini Cake

Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Course Dessert
Servings 1

Ingredients
  

For the cake

  • 2 cups white sugar
  • 3/4 cup canola oil
  • 3 eggs
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2.5 cups cups all-purpose flour
  • 1.5 tsp baking powder
  • 1.5 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 cup cocoa
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 zucchini (grated)

For Chocolate Frosting

  • 1 stick butter, melted
  • 2/3 cup cocoa
  • 1.5 cups cups powder sugar (icing sugar)
  • 1/3 cup milk
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions
 

Chocolate Zucchini Cake

  • Preheat oven to 325C.
  • Grease a cake pan
  • In a large mixing bowl, mix sugar, oil and eggs together until creamy
  • Add vanilla, and mix until well combined.
  • In a small mixing bowl, stir flour, baking powder, baking soda, cocoa, cinnamon and salt together with a small whisk just t blend everything together.
  • Add flour mixture in with the sugar, eggs, oil and vanilla. Mix well.
  • Slowly mix in the milk.
  • After everything is well combined, stir in the zucchini.
  • Pour into cake pan and bake for approximately 60 minutes.
  • Cake will be done when toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Chocolate Frosting

  • Frost cake once cake has cooled.
  • In a medium size mixing bowl, add melted butter. Mix in cocoa.
  • Next add in some powder sugar and then milk, then some powder sugar then milk. Repeat until all is well mixed. Mix on low speed.
  • After frosting is well blended, add in vanilla extract.

Notes

I decorated with raspberries, blueberries and blackberries.

 

Quick Oatmeal Pecan Pancakes

Quick Oatmeal Pecan Pancakes

by with No Comment Recipes

Mother’s day is coming. As a proud mom of 2 years old toddler about to celebrate my second Mother’s Day, what I want most of all is for my hubby and son to remain healthy, safe and happy. Beyond that, I want a 8 hours sleep, a movie date night with hubby and a breakfast-in-bed on Mother’s Day.

There is nothing better than waking up to the smell of pancakes. This recipe has always been my all-time favourite pancake recipe. If you are allergic to eggs, try replace with flax eggs (1 tbsp of warm water and 3 tbsp of ground flax seed).

This is a super heart healthy pancakes, I used whole wheat flour and rolled oats which are high in fibre and some nuts (I used pecans). There was a canned peaches left in my pantry, so I decided to top up the fibre content.

What are your plans this weekend? What’s your favourite breakfast recipes? Let us celebrate Mother’s Day together, treat your mother or yourself on this special day with this super healthy recipe.

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Enjoy! Happy Mother’s Day.

Recipe adapted from Dietitian Debbie Dishes 

Quick Oatmeal Pecan Pancakes

Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Breakfast
Servings 17

Ingredients
  

  • 1 egg (if your are allergic to egg, you can use flax egg instead: 1 tbsp ground flax seed + 3 tbsp warm water)
  • 1 cup whole wheat flour
  • 1 tbsp baking powder
  • 1 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 3/4 cup rolled oats
  • 1.5 cup milk
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (vegetables or canola oil are both fine)
  • 1/3 cup chopped pecans

Instructions
 

  • In a small bowl, mix the ground flax seed and water. Stir well to combine and set aside to gel. Note: if you are using egg, you can skip to step 2.
  • In a large bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, baking powder, and sugar. Add the rolled oats until well combined.
  • Stir in the egg (or flax egg). milk, vanilla extract, and oil. Add the pecans and stir to combine.
  • Spray a non-stick skillet with cooking oil and add approx. 1/3 cup of batter to the pan. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until you lightly browned. Flip and cook on the second side until lightly browned.
  • Recipe make about 17 pancakes.
When Is The Right Time to Start Solid Foods 1

When Is The Right Time to Start Solid Foods

by with No Comment Baby Led WeaningChild & Family NutritionInfant NutritionToddler Nutrition

As a dietitian and a mom, one of the most common questions I hear is: “When should I start my baby on solids?”

It’s no wonder parents feel confused. You might hear from friends, family, or even health professionals that you can start at 4 months. Some websites still say “between 4 and 6 months.” And if you were born in the 80s, chances are you were started on solids as early as 2 to 4 months because that’s what the guidelines recommended back then.

So which advice should you follow? Let’s look at what the evidence says today.

 

WHY DO BABIES NEED SOLIDS?

Introducing solids to babies isn’t just about giving babies “real food”, it’s critical step for both nutrition and developmental reasons. Breast milk or formula will still be a main source of nutrition during the first year, but starting solids around 6 months helps meet growing needs that milk alone can’t fulfill.

1. Nutritional Reasons

  • Iron needs rise: Babies are born with iron stores, but by about 6 months, those stores start to deplete. So they need iron-rich foods to support healthy growth and brain development.
  • Critical nutrients: Protein, zinc, omega-3 fatty acids, and extra energy all become important to fuel your baby’s rapid growth and curiosity.

2. Developmental Reasons

  • Learning to chew and bite: Solids help strengthen jaw muscles and lay the foundation for speech development.
  • Oral and motor skills: Feeding supports hand-eye coordination, fine motor skills, and learning to move food around the mouth safely.

 

COMMON REASONS PARENTS START EARLY?

I often hear parents say:

  • “My baby is so big, he must need food.” 
  • “My baby too small and tiny.”
  • “My baby seems hungry all the time.” (increased breastfeeding demand)
  • “My baby wakes up multiple times a night, maybe solids will help him sleep.”
  • “My doctor recommended to start at 4 months.”
  • “My baby grabbed food off my plate, he must be hungry.”
  • “I wanted to offer something (iron-rich foods) alongside breast milk or formula.”

It’s completely understandable to think these are signs of readiness. But here’s the truth: breast milk (or infant formula) still provides more calories and nutrients than solids before 6 months. Increased hunger is usually growth spurt, not a sign to start solids early. And waking up at night is normal infant behavior, not a reason to rush into feeding.

 

THE RISKS OF STARTING SOLIDS TOO EARLY 

Starting solids too early before 4 months (17 weeks) can pose several health risks. Research shows that introducing solids TOO EARLY can increase the chances of:

  • Infections and Digestive Issues: Babies’ digestive systems are still maturing, and introducing solids too soon may cause gastrointestinal discomfort and infections.
  • Food Allergies: Introducing certain foods too early can increase the risk of developing food allergies later on.
  • Obesity: Early solid feeding can influence long-term eating behaviors, potentially contributing to a higher risk of childhood obesity.
  • Kidney Strain: Babies’ kidneys aren’t fully developed in the first few months, and early solids can strain these organs, leading to imbalances in minerals they’re not yet ready to process.
  • Reduced Breast Milk Intake: Solids may replace breast milk in the baby’s diet, potentially reducing milk supply and lowering access to the essential nutrients and antibodies breast milk provides.
  • Choking Risk: Babies’ swallowing and chewing reflexes are not fully developed before 4 to 6 months, increasing the risk of choking on solid foods.

Waiting too long to introduce solids, beyond 7 months can present its own set of challenges. By this age, babies start needing additional nutrients that breast milk or formula alone may not fully supply. Research shows that delaying solids past 7 months can increase the risk of:

  • Iron Deficiency: Babies’ iron stores begin to deplete around this time, and solids provide essential dietary iron that helps prevent deficiency.
  • Food Allergies: Both early and delayed introduction to certain foods are associated with a higher risk of developing allergies.
  • Texture Sensitivity and Food Fussiness: Delayed exposure may make it more challenging for babies to accept new textures and flavors, potentially leading to picky eating.
  • Difficulty with Essential Nutrients: Waiting too long can mean babies miss out on critical nutrients like iron and zinc, which support growth, brain development, and immune function.

 

WHAT DO THE GUIDELINES SAY 

Today, there is strong consensus among top health organizations, they recommend introducing solids around 6 months when babies show signs of readiness.

These guidelines advocate for exclusive breastfeeding until around 6 months to ensure the digestive system is mature enough to handle solid and to protect against gastrointestinal and respiratory infections (APP 2012, Nylor & Morrow, 2001).

Breast milk or formula should remain the primary nutrition source until 12 months, with solids gradually becoming a bigger part of your baby’s diet.

 

DEVELOPMENT SIGNS FOR READINESS

Rather than watching the calendar, look for developmental cues that your baby is ready:

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  1. Around 6 months of age
  2. Able to sit up with minimal support (with pillow or towel)
  3. Good head and neck control, able to hold head upright and steady
  4. Bringing hands to the mouth
  5. Chewing on non-food items, such as toys or teether
  6. Show interest in food, possibly by reaching for or leaning forward towards food
  7. Diminish tongue thrust reflex

PREMATURE BABIES  

It’s important to consider your baby’s gestational age when deciding when to introduce solids. Premature babies may not be neurologically or physically ready for solids until approximately 6 months after their original due date, rather than their birth date. For instance, my elder son, born 2 weeks early, began solids about two weeks after turning 6 months. Similarly, Audrey and Avery, born 4 weeks early, started solids around 6.5 months. Adjusting based on gestational age allows babies to begin solids when their developmental milestones and readiness are more in line with their age-adjusted peers.

What you can do If your baby is showing obvious signs of being ready for solids before 6 months?

It’s very common for babies around 4 to 5 month to show interest in mealtimes such as reaching for food. However, this curiosity doesn’t necessarily mean they’re ready for solids. In fact, it is part of their normal development to explore by putting objects in their mouths. Here are some ways to involve your baby in mealtimes without introducing solids:

  1. Include Them at the Table: Let your baby join family meals in a booster seat or high chair. This gets them used to mealtime routines and sitting in their designated seat, preparing them for when it’s time to start solids.
  2. Provide Safe Utensils: Give your baby spoons, cups, or bowls to play with during mealtimes. This helps them get familiar with eating utensils in a fun and exploratory way.
  3. Introduce Open Cups: Offering small amounts of water or expressed breast milk (1-3 oz) in an open cup starting at 6 months is considered beneficial. This lets your baby practice drinking skills while engaging at the table without starting on solid foods.

BOTTOM LINE

Most babies are developmentally and physiologically ready to start solids around 6 months (sometimes a littler later, depending on corrected age for preemies). Starting too early can pose risks, while delaying too long can also create challenges.

It’s important to look for signs of readiness rather than strictly following a calendar. Remember, the decision to start solids shouldn’t come from pressure from parents or in-laws but should be based on your baby’s cues.

Baby, Bon Appétit !! 

My children love making a mess during mealtime, and that’s perfectly normal! It’s all part of the learning process as they explore new textures and flavors.

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Aiden
Avery and Audrey

As you embark on this exciting journey of introducing solid foods to your little one, remember that patience and observation are key. Every baby is unique, so trust their cues and enjoy the experience of discovering new flavors and textures together.

Struggling with introducing solids or worried about your baby’s nutrition? Baby’s First Bites online course gives you step-by-step support to help your little one explore food safely and confidently.

 

Update: August 22, 2025

Oatmeal Cranberry Chocolate Chip Cookies

Oatmeal Cranberry Chocolate Chip Cookies

by with No Comment RecipesToddler Nutrition

You may hear that eating chocolate is good for your health because of compounds call FLAVONOIDS. Flavonoids are antioxidants that help the body repair damaged cells, which may reduce the risk of heart disease and other chronic disease.

Types of Chocolate

  • Cocoa Powder and Dark Chocolate: they are the least processed, have the highest levels of flavonoids and may offer the greatest potential health benefits.
  • Milk Chocolate and White Chocolate: they are not the good sources of flavonoids , therefore, they only offer a little health benefits.

I crave for chocolate once in a while. There is no cookies left in the freezer, I think it is time to make another batch for my son and myself. This recipe is so easy and quick that you can have a batch of healthy cookie done by nap time is over. I use whole wheat flour and rolled oats instead of white flour; dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate. These would be perfect for when you are craving for chocolate but still have a healthier cookie.

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Enjoy!!

Recipe adapted from fANNEtasticfood.

It is good to know that chocolate contains ingredients beneficial to your health. However, it does not mean you should go ahead and eat more chocolate products. Chocolate candies and bars are often high in calorie, fat and sugar. MODERATION is the key. It is okay to have a small piece of chocolate once in a while, you can choose dark chocolate (at least 60% cocoa solids) for its higher flavonoid content.

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I was extremely busy for the past two weeks. No time for baking and trying new recipes. Last two weekends were busy on the photography workshop. Also, I am trying to plan a busy weekend for Aiden, we decided  to go swimming every Sunday. He loves to play in the water. This entire week, I attend some free yoga classes like Aerial Yoga and Acro Yoga. I love trying new thing, especially yoga, it allows me to find my own potential.

If you like this recipe, you might also want to try this delicious Cranberry and Dark Chocolate Chip Cookies.

Oatmeal Cranberry Chocolate Chip Cookies

Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Dessert, Snack
Servings 35

Ingredients
  

  • 3/4 cup rolled oats
  • 1 cup whole wheat flour
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 2 tsp cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 cup non-hydrogenated margarine or butter
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2/3 cup brown sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup cranberries
  • 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips
  • 1/4 cup walnuts (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Preheat an oven to 350F
  • Grind rolled oats in a food processor. In a small bowl, mix the whole wheat flour, baking soda and salt and oats together until well blended.
  • In another large bowl, beat non-hydrogenated margarine with an electric mixer until fluffy. Add olive oil, brown sugar, egg and vanilla. Beat on low speed until smooth and creamy.
  • Add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, beating on low speed until well combined. (I just do all this by hand.)
  • Once it is mixed, stir in cranberries until well blended. You can also stir in the dark chocolate now but I prefer to add them at the same time when I am forming the cookie dough, I can control how many chocolate chips in one cookie. I made few cookies without chocolate chips for my son.
  • Chill for 1 hour.
  • Drop the dough by heaping tablespoonfuls (15 mL), about 1 inch apart, onto baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  • Bake for 15 minutes until firm around the edge and golden on top. Make about 30-35 cookies.
  • Let cool slightly on the baking sheet then transfer to a wire cooking rack.

Notes

It is good to know that chocolate contains ingredients beneficial to your health. However, it does not mean you should go ahead and eat more chocolate products. Chocolate candies and bars are often high in calorie, fat and sugar. MODERATION is the key. It is okay to have a small piece of chocolate once in a while, you can choose dark chocolate (at least 60% cocoa solids) for its higher flavonoid content.
Constipation above 6 months

How to Manage Constipation in Your Child (6 months or above)- Part II

by with No Comment Child & Family NutritionDigestive HealthInfant NutritionToddler Nutrition

Constipation in children is extremely common. I don’t deal with constipated children a lot in my practice, even my son, he is such a “regular” boy. Most parents are overly concerned about how often their child has bowel movement, because they have been taught that a healthy child should have a bowel movement every day. This is not TRUE.

WHAT IS NORMAL? 

It is very important for parents to recognize there are many “normal” patterns for bowel movements in children.

  • Bowel movements decrease down to about 1 or 2 each day from age 2 months to 3 years.
  • Children 3 years or older have about 1 bowel movement each day (here).
  • Bowel movements change in thickness, number and colour when a change is made to what your child eats (e.g., when babies are starting solid foods or cow’s milk).

Your child is not constipated if his or her stools are soft and pass easily, even if it has even a few days since last bowel movement.

WHEN YOU SHOULD WORRY? 

When the bowel movements are 1) dry and hard 2) difficult or painful to pass.

The frequency of bowel movements is not as important as whether the child can pass stools easily.

CONSTIPATION IN INFANT 6-12 MONTHS

In infants, any changes in diet may result in stool inconsistency and/or change in frequency of bowel movements.

COMMON CAUSES OF CONSTIPATION 

  • Changing from breast milk to formula or cow’s milk.
  • Introducing new formulas. Some formulas may be more constipating than others.
  • Incorrect formula-to-water ratio (preparation method).
  • Introducing solid food(s) – Breastfed babies may be more prone to constipation when solid foods are introduced (at 6 months). This is because their tiny tummies are used to process the easily and highly digestible breast milk.

CONSTIPATION IN CHILDREN AGE 1 YEAR AND OLDER

Constipation can make bowel movement painful, so your child may try to prevent having one. Once a child begins to be afraid of passing bowel movements, the cycle of chronic constipation has begun and bowel movements become more and more abnormal.

COMMON CAUSES OF CONSTIPATION 

  • Toilet training. Refuse going to toilet, due to not wanting to take a break from play or not wanting to use certain facilities such as the school toilets or travelling.
  • Diets low in fibre.
  • Lack of fluid intake. Sometimes the normal amount of fluid a child drinks is not enough, such as when the weather gets hot or the child increases his or her physical activities.
  • Excessive intake of dairy products. Milk does count as part of the fluid but be aware that too much milk can be a contributing factor to constipation as it means that a child will be eating less foods and thereby less fibre.

If high intakes of any foods create a lack of fibre or fluid intake, then constipation may result.

MANAGEMENT OF CONSTIPATION

Bathroom Routine

  • Children who are toilet trained should practice sitting on the toilet for 5-10 minutes every day after each mealtime (same time every day).
  • No distraction. Make sure parents or siblings aren’t coming in and out the bathroom when it is “their toilet time”, so that they can relax and make sure that they sticks to their morning bathroom routine consistently every morning. It usually takes up to weeks or months for them to start going consistently.
  • Do not ignore the “urge” to go to toilet as this can lead to harder, larger and drier stool. Make sure they have enough privacy and time to pass stools comfortably.
  • It is important to teach your toddler to “listen to your body” or “listen to your bottom” and go to toilet when they get the message. Then , you can take them to the bathroom right away. Parents should listen or watch the signs:
    • Suddenly stop whatever activity they are doing
    • Suddenly squat or sit down
    • Leave the room or hide in a corner
    • Stiffen up, extend their bodies upright, stand on their tip toes and tighten the muscles in their bottom
    • Face turns red or change tone of their voice
    • Unable to pay attention to you
  • Make sure your child’s feet are resting on something, such as a foot stool. It helps relax the pelvic floor muscles, which can help move the bowels.
  • Keep some reading or picture books in the bathroom and encouraged your child to look at them and try to relax.

Increase Fibre Intake 

It is important your child eat a healthy and balanced diet. The recommended intake of fibre are 19 g of fibre per day for a 1-3 year old and 25 g per day for a 4-8 year old (here).

  • Offer at least one serving of vegetables or fruit at each meal or snack.  In this way, your kids should get adequate fibre daily.
  • Gradually increase fibre intake. Going from a low fibre intake to their desired goal too fast can cause symptoms include abdominal pain, bloating, and gassiness.
  • Choose whole grains – e.g. whole grain bread, whole wheat pasta, brown rice, whole grain cereal, oat, quinoa, barley, etc.
  • Choose legumes – e.g. beans and lentils.

The best way to introduce more fibre to your child’s diet is to do so by adding some of those fibre-containing foods slowly. For example, provide a serving of fruit at lunch for a few days, then add a high fibre cereal (at least 3 g of fibre per serving) at breakfast until you reach the goal. Also, If your child is constipated and you are feeding him the rice-based infant cereal, then try bran- or oat-based cereal instead.

Avoid Binding Foods

Avoid white starchy foods, banana and cheese. Most white starchy foods are low in fibre, e.g., white rice, white bread, white pasta and breakfast cereals. These foods will bind the stool so that it is harder to pass and this can also cause pain when passing.

Increase Fluid Intake 

  • Water is the only things that helps your child get over their constipation.
  • Babies 6 – 12 months:
    • Offer up to 1 oz (30 mL) of fruit juice between feedings to a maximum of 4 oz (125 mL) in 24 hours.
    • Sips of water from an open cup (about 2-3 oz or 60 – 90 mL at a time).
    • Note: Juice and water should not replace regular feedings.
  • 1 – 3 years Children:
    • Recommended total fluid intake: 4 cups (900 mL) per day (here).
    • Offer 500 mL (2 cups) of milk per day with meals and snacks.
    • Offer water throughout the day.
    • Limit 100% fruit juice to 1/2 cup (125 mL) per day (OPTIONAL).

Natural Laxatives 

Why juice? Juices containing high amounts of sorbitol can help draw water into the bowels to make stool easier to pass. Prunes, pears and apple juices usually contain higher amounts of sorbitol compared to other juices and therefore can have some benefit in relieving constipation.

  • Offer “juice water” (diluted fruit juice) which mean 95% of water and a tiny splash or real 100% fruit juice. Limit 100% fruit juice intake to no more than 1/2 cup per day.
  • Mix prune puree with a favourite food (cereal or crackers).
  • Ground flax seed. Mix in cereal, soup, smoothie, baked goods, or yogurt. Dosage: 1 tbsp per day (toddler); 2 tbsp per day (older children).

Increase Physical Activity

We all know physical activity is a natural bowel-stimulator. Get your child off the couch, turn off the TV and hide the iPad. Checkout the Physical Activity Guidelines.

Medications & Laxatives & Fibre Supplement 

Talk to your doctor and/or pharmacist before using any of these methods, as doses are weight-dependent. Follow the instructions carefully for the dose and the amount of the time you child should be taking them. As a dietitian, I will focus on “real foods” rather than supplements.

Prebiotic & Probiotics Supplement 

Currently, there is no enough evidence or research to show that pre/probiotics supplement help with constipation. However, foods like cheese, milk and yogurt with probiotics are safe for most people including children.

Do you have a constipated baby at home? If you have any questions please leave me a comment or Contact Me. 

Crispy Kale Chips

Crispy Kale Chips

by with No Comment RecipesWeight Management

Kale is one of those dark green vegetables that I don’t know what to do with until I discover kale chips recipe. Mmmm….. Kale chips may sound not appetizing but I can assure they are very tasty because they get crispy and almost melt in your mouth when you eat them. Kale is not only very high in Vitamin A, C and K, but also contains Calcium.

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Well, it seems like a very easy recipe however, I failed making it many times until I read the tips from Oh She Glows.

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Note: I made two batches. One has nothing and one with spices (garlic powder, cayenne pepper and paprika). You can store them in a airtight container. We usually eat them right away because they taste so good.

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Enjoy !!

Leave me a comment and let me know how you like these vegetables chips.

Crispy Kale Chips

Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Dinner, Snack

Ingredients
  

  • 1 bunch of kale
  • 1 tbsp  olive oil (enough to lightly coat the leaves)
  • Spices or seasoning of your choice (garlic powder, curry powder, chili powder, cayenne pepper or smoked paprika) – optional
  • Salt to taste (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Preheat an oven to 300F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • Carefully remove the leaves from the thick stems and tear into bite size pieces. Wash and thoroughly dry kale with a salad spinner or paper towel. Transfer kale into a large bowl.
  • Massage kale leaves with olive oil until leaves are lightly coated. (Sprinkle with spices or seasonings – optional).
  • Spread out the kale onto the prepared baking sheet into a single layer, make sure not to overcrowd the kale.
  • Bake for 20-25 minutes until crisp and dark green. Rotate the baking sheet half-way through baking.
  • Cool the kale on the baking sheet for 3-5 minutes before serving it.
Crunchy And Sweet Granola

Crunchy and Sweet Granola

by with No Comment RecipesWeight Management

Store bought granola are often packed full of sugar and fat. So, I decided to make my own. I’ve tried couple granola recipes but I failed. They either burned or too dry. What I love about this recipe is that you can use different nuts and dried fruits to create your very own unique granola.

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Enjoy!

What is your favourite granola recipe?

Crunchy and Sweet Granola

Crunchy And Sweet Granola

Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Snack

Ingredients
  

  • 3 cups rolled oats
  • 1 nuts (I used sliced almonds and chopped pecans)
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened coconut
  • 3 tbsp brown sugar
  • 3/4 tsp cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp ginger
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/3 cup honey
  • 2 tbsp vegetables oil
  • 1 cup of assorted dried fruit (I use raisins and dried cranberries)

Instructions
 

  • Pre-heat over to 300F.
  • In a large bowl, mix together the oats, nuts, coconut, brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger and salt. Set aside.
  • In a small saucepan on low heat, warm the honey and oil together, stirring, until smooth. Pour over the oat mixture and mix everything well together.
  • Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment, then spread out the oat mixture onto it.
  • Bake for 30 minutes, making sure to give it a toss every 10 minutes until golden brown.
  • Remove the pan from oven and allow it to cool. Stir int the dried fruit.
  • Store in airtight container.
  • Makes about 5 cups.
Constipation under 6 months

How to Manage Constipation in Your Baby (Under 6 months) – Part I

by with No Comment Child & Family NutritionDigestive HealthInfant Nutrition

Being a first-time mom, I know it is heartbreaking when your baby is constipated. I remember when Aiden hasn’t had bowel movement for 3 days, I began to worry. Is this normal for a 4 months old exclusively breastfed baby or is he constipated? After talking to my lactation consultant, I know this is normal for EBF baby to have infrequent bowel movement.

Most babies grunt and get red in the face when having a bowel movement. It is completely normal. However, your baby is constipated if his poo is dry and crumbly or like pellets, and it can cause him pain and discomfort.

WHAT IS NORMAL?

  • There is NO necessary to give your baby fluids other than breastmilk or formula before 6 months of age.
  • It is normal for exclusively breastfed infants to have more frequent bowel movement than formula-fed infants in the first 2 to 8 weeks after birth.
  • In some exclusively breastfed babies over six weeks of age with normal growth and development, bowel movements may be infrequent and soft, ranging from one every two days to two weeks (here), or even three or four weeks. These infrequent stools can be normal in infants who are effectively transferring milk (changing from breast milk to formula or cow’s milk) and appropriately gaining weight.

WHEN YOU SHOULD WORRY? 

If your baby is constipated for more than 2 weeks, If he has a fever, start vomiting, decrease appetite, have blood in stool and weight loss, follow up with your baby’s family doctor to make sure there are no other red flags.

TIPS FOR MANAGING YOUR INFANT’S CONSTIPATION AT HOME 

  • Continue breast feeding. Breast milk is easier to digest than infant formula because it is specific to the needs of human infants. It helps promote bowel regularly, mature the digestive tract and protect it from infection. If an exclusively breastfed infant has dry and hard stool, hydration should be assessed and the infant referred to a family physician or lactation consultant (if you have concerns about breastfeeding).
  • Small and frequent feeds. Infants have small stomach. For better digestion, offer smaller feeds, more often throughout the day. For example, if you normally offer 6 ozs every 4 hours, try offering 3 ozs every 2 hours. This method may reduce gas and fussiness as well.
  • Preparation method. If your baby is using formula, ensure that the formula is being properly prepared. Formula that is over concentrated can lead to difficulties with digestion as well as other medical problems. An extra ounces of water can be offered a couple of times a day to ensure adequate hydration.
  • For some formula-fed babies, the answer is switching formulas. The iron in formula is often blamed for constipation, but this is no evidence that there is a link between the two. And babies need the iron to reduce the risk of anemia. Some babies, however, are intolerant of cow’s milk and do better on different iron-fortified formulas. You should switch infant formulas only under your family doctor’s guidance.

Many breastfed babies do have infrequent bowel movements however this does not mean that they are constipated.

OTHER NON-NUTRITIONAL TIPS 

  • Soft tummy massages. Starting in their navel, in a clockwise direction and moving outwards. Do several massages throughout the day, until your baby has a bowel movement.
  • A warm bath (if he enjoys bathing). This will make them feel relaxed and you can continue the massage technique and relieve their discomfort.
  • Cycle baby’s legs. You can try moving your baby’s leg in a cycling motion while they are lying on their backs to help loosen stools.
  • Check with your family doctor to see whether it’s okay or necessary to use an over-the-counter stool softener.

Do you have a constipated child at home? If you have any questions please leave me a comment or Contact Me.