Baby’s first avocado

Babies need a lot of brain food, or so-called “super food” for their ever-developing brain. For that reason, avocados are a great first food. Not only do they have a soft, creamy texture but they are an excellent source of "good" fat, and are packed with vitamins – making them ideal for baby’s growing development.

Compared to other fruits appropriate for babies, avocado is considered to have the highest nutritional value packed into its bumpy, dark green skin.

So what about the fat content in avocados? Well, the fats in avocados are of the heart-healthy variety - no cholesterol or mono-saturated fats. Avos also contain Omega 3, so for a growing baby, the type of fats in avocados are a good thing.

Avocados are often recommended for babies, who are starting on solids, aged about 4 to 6 months.

Avos could NOT be easier to prepare for a baby! Simply mash the avocado with a fork (or you can push it through a sieve to make it extra smooth). You shouldn't really need to add anything to thin the consistency. But if you do feel the need to make it a bit more 'soupy', just add a little milk or formula as you mash.

As you begin to introduce other foods, you may want to experiment with other flavours – such as mixing with soft fruits, cream cheese, yogurt and even chicken. More recipe ideas available here http://wholesomebabyfood.momtastic.com/avocadobabyfoodrecipes.html

Tips for AvoBabies:

• Avocados are ripe when they feel soft. Particularly in Hass avocados, look for dark skin – the darker the skin, the riper the fruit
• Another great thing about avocados is that they are easy to take with you. Just grab a spoon - shove an avocado in your bag and voila! - instant baby food!
• Like bananas, avocado is a fruit that you can buy early in the week and then use later on. If your avocado becomes soft before you want to eat it, just keep it in the fridge until you are ready. It will keep up to two weeks in the fridge uncut