Moms and Kids
Good Nutrition for Moms
Thinking about having a baby, then think about eating well for your baby's sake. A healthy diet will give your baby a better start in life by providing the essential nutrients to grow and develop normally. Avocados can be part of a healthful diet for both pregnant and nursing moms.
Sodium- and cholesterol-free, with monounsaturated fats, avocados also have life's essential vitamins and minerals.
Learn about the USDA Dietary Guidelines.
Avocado and Your Child's Health
Preparing Homemade Baby Food
- Keep all tools and work spaces spotlessly clean, washing with hot, soapy water and rinsing in hot water. Use a dishwasher, if possible.
- Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before peeling.
- Avocados may be mashed and served in a variety of ways. They do not require cooking.
- Separate baby's portions before adding sugar or seasoning to your family's meal.
- Use a blender or food processor to speed preparation. Add formula, juice or cooking water to thin the food.
- Start with a thin, smooth, easy-to-swallow puree. As your baby grows and chewing and swallowing reflexes mature, the consistency can become thicker.
We now know that a lifetime of good eating habits and good health is established early in childhood. Sodium- and cholesterol- free, avocados contribute valuable nutrients including 8% of the recommended Daily Value (DV) for folate; 4% DV for fiber and potassium, 4% DV for vitamin E; and 2% DV for iron. A serving of avocado also contains 81 micrograms of the carotenoid lutein and 19 micrograms of beta-carotene. Per serving, avocados have 3.5 grams of unsaturated fats, which are known to be important for normal growth and development of the central nervous system and brain. Read the avocado nutrition label here.
Your Child's Lunch Box
Children love surprises in their lunch boxes and for after-school treats. If you're concerned that your child isn't eating enough at regular meals, supplement his or her diet with cut-up avocados. Pureed avocado with lemon juice and a pinch of salt is a great replacement for some salad dressings that may be high in saturated fat. For older children or those who like spicier foods, offer guacamole with baked chips or quesadillas. Or spread mashed avocado on graham crackers, bagels or muffins and top with raisins.
A Prominent Pediatrician Ranks Avocados #1
Popular pediatrician, Dr. Bill and his wife, R.N., Martha Sears, rank avocados #1 on their Top 10 list of fruits that are packed with good-for-you nutrition. Visit their Web site to learn why.