First foods bring to mind purees of iconic staples like apples, pears, and sweet potatoes. Surely most babies will delight in these flavors. But after a while, you may run out of firsts. You might even wonder what’s left to introduce next. Here’s some advice: Don’t forget herbs and spices! Most parents don’t consider them baby fodder, but imagine your own meals without them. Besides, your baby may have already enjoyed flavors from herbs and spices—while you were pregnant and through your breast milk. So don’t stop now, keep on delighting those taste buds!
Remember, part of the goal of introducing solids is to hook baby on flavor in an effort to create an adventurous eater who enjoys a wide variety of nutritious foods. That makes herbs and spices an invaluable tool. An added bonus? Many have been linked to positive health benefits. We’re not going to weigh in on the following herbs and spices’ reputations as medicinal powerhouses; many of these claims to fame are more anecdotal and cultural than rooted in science. That said, there’s something about the tried and true. Plus, if some day research proves it all true, baby will be way ahead of the game. And that’s kind of the point. So add a little bit—tiny bodies don’t need a lot!—when prepping meals for the rest of the family.

PARSLEY

CINNAMON

CILANTRO

BASIL

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CUMIN
WRITTEN BY PLUM ORGANICS
The advice provided in this article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical diagnosis, advice or treatment for specific medical conditions. Always consult a pediatrician to understand the individual needs of your child.