Raw Babies
– by Kristen Suzanne
I’m frequently asked about Kamea’s diet and what first foods I’m feeding her. We are not a strictly raw house, but the majority of our diet is raw. Kamea will likely follow suit. She is 11 months old and still exclusively breastfed for the most part. I’m going to share what I do, and share a raw baby food recipe she likes.
Baby Led Weaning
I’m fond of the principles of baby led weaning, which is letting baby take the lead. Baby led weaning is a relaxed and stress free approach to introducing solids. I put foods in front of her and give her the option to play, taste, smell, and simply explore the food. The idea is to avoid most pureed foods, and not use a spoon unless she’s trying to use it herself. I cut up foods in small pieces and put them in front of her. I’ve noticed that a few morsels make their way to her mouth, although not often.
Some days are more successful than others. That’s okay. This mostly raw mama knows that breastmilk is treating Kamea’s body to the best nutrition, and we’re going at her pace. I don’t worry if she isn’t eating solids at the same pace as other babies. Heck, this mama is pretty counter culture in most things, why would this be any different? The result? Kamea is thriving and happy.
A First Foods Recipe
There is one puree recipe, Cinnamon Apricot Prunes, I make because it has tons of antioxidants, iron, and nutrients that are important for her growing body. Kamea seems to enjoy it, even if it is only a couple of bites!
Cinnamon Apricot Prunes
Ingredients:
- 4 prunes
- 2 dried apricots
- Water to soak
- Pinch of ground cinnamon
Directions:
Step 1: Put the prunes and dried apricots in a bowl and add enough water to reach the top of them. Let them soak this for an hour or so… you want them plump.
Step 2: Transfer the prunes, apricots, and soak water to a small blender. Add the cinnamon and blend to a puree.
Note:
Kamea doesn’t eat the entire thing in one sitting. What she doesn’t eat I store in the refrigerator (if I don’t eat it myself!). The cinnamon takes this recipe over the top in deliciousness!
Relax & Have Fun!
The important thing in introducing solids to a baby is to remain humble, relaxed, and have fun. There are no rules with the exception of not feeding baby certain foods based on baby’s age. You might receive a lot of unsolicited comments from family and friends, but following maternal instinct trumps everything.