How to Introduce Legumes to a Baby

Introducing your baby to new foods is an important part of teaching her good nutrition for life. Legumes are a wonderful source of protein, fiber and other nutrients for your baby before she is ready for a wide range of foods. The legume group includes beans, peas, lentils and peanuts. The American Association of Pediatrics encourages parents to start vegetables, such as legumes, after the baby has become comfortable with single-grain cereals mixed with milk or formula.

Things You'll Need

  • Pureed peas
  • Soft infant spoon

Instructions

    • 1

      Feed the baby while you and the rest of the family east. This starts the habit of family meals. Talk to the baby while you feed him.

    • 2

      Serve the baby pureed legumes, such as commercially prepared pureed peas or green beans.

    • 3

      Scoop a small amount of pureed peas with your finger and offer it to the baby. Pediatrician and author Dr. William Sears points out that your finger is always the right temperature and your baby is used to the shape. This makes the unfamiliar food more acceptable.

    • 4

      Open your mouth and wait for the baby to copy your gesture. Put your finger into the baby̵7;s mouth and wait while the baby sucks the peas into his mouth.

    • 5

      Stop feeding the baby peas if she stops opening her mouth or cries. The new flavor may come as a shock. It may take several tries before your baby enjoys the legume.

    • 6

      Feed the baby with a soft plastic infant spoon as the baby becomes more adept at eating.

    • 7

      Stick with one legume for two or three days. While you offer the beans to the baby, watch him carefully for signs of allergy. This could be anything from gas or crankiness to a rash or diarrhea.

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