How to Introduce New Foods to the Vegetarian Baby

Introducing new foods to your vegetarian baby doesn't have to be an overwhelming ordeal. Follow these guidelines and you'll be able to introduce new and healthy foods to your vegetarian baby throughout their first nine months of life without worry.

How to Introduce New Foods to the Vegetarian Baby - 4-5 Months

When the vegetarian baby is four to five months old, breastfeeding or formula will still be the primary source of nutrition. It's safe to introduce one food per day to the vegetarian baby at this age.

Foods recommended for introduction at four to five months of age include ripe bananas, mangos, sweet potatoes and yogurt. These are all soft, easily digested foods that are safe for babies at this age. Make sure they are mashed or finely ground in a baby food grinder before serving.

How to Introduce New Foods to the Vegetarian Baby - 5-7 Months

When the vegetarian baby is five to seven moths old, breastfeeding or formula is still a large part of the diet. However, it is okay to introduce one or two new foods per day to the vegetarian baby at this age.

Foods recommended for introduction at five to seven months of age include oatmeal, barley, rice, peas, green beans, squash, fruits and fruit juices. Make sure to mash the foods with a fork or grind with a baby food grinder before serving.

How to Introduce New Foods to the Vegetarian Baby - 7-8 Months

When the vegetarian baby is seven to eight months old, breastfeeding or formula is becoming less frequent, maybe only two or three times per day. It's safe to introduce two or three new foods per day to the vegetarian baby at this age plus a few finger snack foods.

Foods recommended for introduction at seven to eight months of age include egg yolks, spinach, broccoli and cabbage. Make sure these foods are ground in a baby food grinder or finely mashed. Finger foods to introduce to the vegetarian baby at this age would include presoaked dried fruit and pieces of bread.

How to Introduce New Foods to the Vegetarian Baby - 8-9 Months

When the vegetarian baby is eight to nine months old, breast milk or formula will still be provided twice per day. It's safe to introduce three new foods per day plus finger food snacks when the vegetarian baby is at this age.

Foods recommended for introduction at eight to nine months of age include peas, tofu, nut pastes, cheese, all veggies, fruits and grains that have not been introduced before. Make sure the meals are finely mashed or pureed. Finger foods can be larger but soft to aid the digestion and help the vegetarian baby swallow them.