Now that fall is here, pregnant or nursing mothers should consider Thanksgiving food for a baby and what to serve this year. A little one can make it challenging to plan a meal, especially big holiday dinners. This blog will discuss foods served around the holidays that are breastfeeding-safe for mothers and their little ones.
Breastfeeding-Safe Thanksgiving Foods
Thanksgiving is a special time to get together with family and friends and enjoy delicious holiday foods. However, knowing what’s safe to eat is critical if you’re a breastfeeding mom. Here’s a list of some Thanksgiving foods that are breast-feeding friendly.
Turkey
Turkey is an excellent protein source and safe for nursing moms to eat. Avoid fried turkey or coated in batter, as this can make it more difficult to digest.
Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are another safe option for breastfeeding moms. Avoid putting too much salt, butter, or cream, as these can also be difficult to digest.
Green Beans
Green beans are a healthy vegetable option that’s safe for breastfeeding moms to eat. Try avoiding any buttered or fried green beans to prevent digestive pains.
Cranberry Sauce
Cranberry sauce is safe for breastfeeding moms and is an excellent way to get some extra nutrients into your diet. We recommend creating your own cranberry sauce, as canned ones can be high in sugar.
Pumpkin Pie
Pumpkin pie is safe for breastfeeding moms to eat if it’s made with real pumpkins and doesn’t have much sugar. Be sure to enjoy it in moderation, as pumpkin pie can be high in calories.
Breastfeeding moms can enjoy plenty of safe and healthy Thanksgiving dinner foods. So go ahead, enjoy your holiday feast, and know that you’re doing what’s best for you and your baby.
Thanksgiving Food for a Baby by Age Group
When it comes to baby food, there are a few things you need to keep in mind when planning your Thanksgiving feast. As a note, it’s recommended that newborn to five-month-old babies drink breast milk or formula only. Here’s a helpful guide to what foods are safe for your baby based on age groups six months to toddlers.
6-8 Months
Babies from 6-8 months old can start eating pureed or mashed foods. Some great options when it comes to Thanksgiving food for a baby include pureed sweet potato, mashed potato, or pureed green bean.
9-12 Months
Children in the 9-12 months age group can eat small pieces of soft foods. Some great options for Thanksgiving include shredded turkey, mashed potatoes, pureed carrots, or green beans. Ensure the food is cut into small bite-sized pieces and at a lukewarm temperature, so it does not burn the baby.
12-18 Months
Toddlers from 12-18 months can eat small pieces of solid food. Some great options for Thanksgiving food for a baby in this age group are cooked turkey, stuffing, or cranberry sauce.
As you can see, there are plenty of safe and healthy Thanksgiving meal foods that your baby can enjoy. Be sure to avoid any foods high in sugar or salt. And, of course, always check with your pediatrician before giving your baby any new food.
Foods to Avoid While Breastfeeding
It’s critical to know what not to eat while breastfeeding, especially when it comes to Thanksgiving. Here’s a food list for pregnancy to use as a guide this holiday season.
Caffeine
Caffeine can pass through your breast milk to your baby and can cause them to become irritable and have trouble sleeping. Limit your caffeine intake while breastfeeding, or avoid it altogether.
Alcohol
Alcohol can also pass through your breast milk. Excessive alcohol consumption can cause your baby to have sleeping and development issues. It’s best to avoid alcohol altogether while breastfeeding.
Dairy
Dairy can be problematic for babies with food sensitivity or allergies. It might be hard to digest and cause stomach aches or diarrhea. Talk to your pediatrician first if you want to include dairy in your Thanksgiving feast.
Parsley, Peppermint, & Sage
Did you know that certain foods can decrease breast milk supply? Parsley, peppermint, and sage are not harmful in small amounts. However, excessive consumption can cause issues for nursing mothers.
Raw Eggs
Raw eggs can contain bacteria that can make you and your baby sick. It’s best to avoid raw eggs altogether or make sure they’re cooked thoroughly before eating them.
Spicy Foods
Spicy foods can cause gas and upset stomach in both you and your baby. It’s best to avoid them while breastfeeding or giving to your little one.
As you can see, there is food to avoid while breastfeeding, especially during Thanksgiving. However, this doesn’t mean you have to forgo the holiday altogether. There is still plenty of Thanksgiving food for a baby you both can enjoy. Try any new foods with your baby before the holiday to know what they like and don’t like before cooking your feast.
Create Memories for Baby’s First Thanksgiving
So now that we have gone over what pregnant and nursing mothers and babies should eat at Thanksgiving, consider a holiday outfit for your little ones! It’s a special way to celebrate a baby’s first thanksgiving and any special occasion.
Shop children’s Thanksgiving outfits today!
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