Naga City - After your child reaches six months of age, breastmilk alone is not enough to provide sufficient nutrition to support their growth. During this time, other food items and liquids are slowly introduced along with breastmilk. 

Here are 10 super complementary foods for your toddlers:

Rice 

It is one of the main dietary carbohydrate components of a typical Filipino dish. It is readily available, convenient, and has the perfect texture for your toddler’s gums. Rice is easily digested and is a good source of energy. It can be prepared as rice porridge or cereal. Most Filipino households’ pair boiled rice with a viand of choice. 

Sweet potato

These are high in fiber, potassium, beta carotene, and Vitamin C. Sweet potatoes are typically served pureed or mashed. These are good for babies who are starting to transition to solid foods. 

Red meat 

Red meat is rich in protein, fats, and iron. Iron in red meat is more readily digestible compared to other food sources. The introduction of red meat should be given in small portions to allow your child to learn how to chew solids. Parents and caregivers should make sure that meat is soft enough to serve. 

Fish

This is a good source of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) which is essential in brain development. Fatty fish like salmon and tuna are best served as pan-fried, steamed, or mixed with other dishes.

Beans and lentils 

These are nutrient-dense food items that can be pureed easily and can also be paired well with other dishes. Dried beans are more affordable and contain less sodium than canned ones. These are usually paired with a protein source.  

Green leafy vegetables

These are rich in Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and Iron. Vegetables like kangkong, cabbage, and malunggay are typically cooked and mixed into other dishes or pureed. 

Yellow/orange fruit and vegetables

These include mangoes, carrots, squash, and others. They are rich in vitamins and minerals especially Vitamins A and C.  Food items under this category are mostly finger foods but can also be served steamed, boiled, pureed, or mixed into other dishes.  

Oils

These are rich in fats, especially alpha-linolenic acid or omega 3 fatty acid. Healthy fats include sunflower oil, canola oil, butter, and cheese. These can be added to dishes or purees or even served as a dip for finger foods.  

Eggs

These are rich in protein, essential fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals. They also contain choline which contributes to brain development. These are served as hard-boiled, scrambled, mashed, or pureed. Egg yolks can also be added to mixed purees for a heartier meal.  

Avocado

This is rich in healthy fat and Vitamin C which supports brain development and good digestion. It is usually cut into wedges and given as finger food. Simple preparations like mixing with pureed fruits or serving it mashed are good for babies who can tolerate smaller pieces of food.   

The introduction of these food items to your child’s diet will help them appreciate foods with textures other than breastmilk. The goal here is not to replace breastmilk, but to complement food items with it. By the time your child reaches 12 months of age, he should be eating a variety of healthy foods with the rest of your family. //ND II Juan Viktor V. Filamor, RND