How many dates should I give baby?

Starting solid foods is an exciting milestone in a baby’s life! As a parent, you may have many questions about when and how to introduce solids. Here is a quick overview of some key things to know about giving babies dates.

When can babies start eating dates?

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends starting solid foods around 6 months of age. However, every baby is different. Signs your baby may be ready for solids include:

  • Good head and neck control
  • Ability to sit with support
  • Loss of tongue thrust reflex
  • Interest in foods you eat

Dates are sticky and dense, so wait until your baby has tried some beginner solids first. Aim to introduce dates around 8-10 months of age.

Are dates safe for babies?

Yes, dates are safe for babies to eat. In fact, dates offer some great nutritional benefits:

  • Fiber – promotes healthy digestion
  • Potassium – supports nerve and muscle function
  • Magnesium – aids bone development
  • Iron – prevents anemia
  • Antioxidants – boost immunity

However, dates are high in sugar. Be mindful of portion sizes and frequency.

Allergy Concerns

Dates are not common allergy foods. However, you should still watch for any signs of an allergic reaction the first few times your baby eats them. These can include:

  • Rash or hives
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Swelling of lips, face, tongue
  • Difficulty breathing

Stop feeding dates immediately if you notice any of these symptoms and contact your pediatrician.

Choking Hazards

Whole dates should not be given to babies since they present a major choking risk. Always chop dates into small pieces before serving.

To be extra safe, you can grind dates into a puree consistency when first introducing them. Then gradually work up to date pieces as your baby learns to chew.

How to Prepare Dates for Baby

Dates need to be prepared properly before serving to babies. Here are some tips:

  • Wash dates thoroughly under running water.
  • Remove pits – these can pose a choking hazard.
  • Chop into small pieces or puree.
  • Mix with breastmilk, formula, or water to reach desired consistency.
  • You can also try blending dates into smoothies or oatmeal.

How Much to Feed

When first starting solids, babies only need a few teaspoons per feeding. Here are some general date serving size guidelines by age:

Age Serving Size
6-8 months 1-2 teaspoons pureed dates
9-12 months 2-4 tablespoons chopped or mashed dates
12-24 months 4-8 tablespoons chopped dates

Let your baby’s cues guide you on how much to offer. Watch for signs that they are full, such as turning away or clamping lips shut.

Food Pairings

Dates pair well with many foods, making them easy to incorporate into baby’s diet. Try mixing them into:

  • Yogurt
  • Oatmeal
  • Applesauce
  • Cereal
  • Bananas

You can also add diced dates to foods like:

  • Meatballs
  • Bread
  • Muffins
  • Pancakes

Avoid Added Sugars

Choose plain, unsweetened dates when feeding baby. Avoid dates with any added sugars, which can cause unhealthy weight gain and tooth decay.

Read ingredient labels closely and do not buy dates coated in sugars, candied dates, or date syrups.

Try Different Date Varieties

There are over 100 varieties of dates! Some common kinds include:

  • Medjool – soft, sweet, and sticky
  • Deglet Noor – firmer and less sweet
  • Barhi – smooth texture with caramel flavor
  • Zahidi – mild honey flavor

Let your baby discover new flavors and textures by trying different types of dates.

Watch for Teeth Stains

Like other sticky foods, dates can discolor teeth. Be diligent about brushing your baby’s teeth after eating dates.

You can also have your baby drink water after eating dates to help cleanse the teeth.

Avoid Dates if Constipated

The high fiber content of dates can cause some babies to become constipated. If your baby struggles with constipation, talk to your pediatrician before introducing dates.

If constipation occurs after eating dates, stop serving them for a while. Increase hydration and try prunes or pear juice to get things moving again.

Support Healthy Eating Habits

Set your baby up for success with these healthy eating tips:

  • Offer a variety of fruits and veggies.
  • Let your baby explore new flavors and textures.
  • Respond to your baby’s hunger and fullness signals.
  • Avoid pressuring your baby to eat more than wanted.
  • Focus on making mealtimes positive and fun!

Watch for Food Allergies

Dates are not a common allergenic food. However, introduce dates one at a time and watch for any signs of an allergic reaction.

Allergic reactions to watch for include:

  • Rash, hives, swelling
  • Vomiting, diarrhea
  • Runny nose, watery eyes
  • Wheezing, coughing
  • Anaphylaxis (life-threatening reaction)

If any reaction occurs, stop feeding the food immediately and contact your pediatrician.

Have Emergency Medications Ready

If your baby already has a known food allergy, have emergency medications (like an EpiPen) on hand whenever introducing a new food.

Teach any caregivers how to use emergency medications. Call 911 if anaphylaxis occurs.

Consider Food Sensitivity Testing

For babies with multiple food allergies/sensitivities, specialized testing can help identify problem foods. Options may include:

  • Skin prick testing
  • Blood tests
  • Oral food challenges
  • Elimination diets

Talk to your pediatrician or allergist about whether food sensitivity testing could benefit your baby.

Read Food Labels Carefully

Always read food labels when buying products with dates, such as:

  • Date pastes
  • Premade baby foods
  • Dried fruit snacks
  • Cereals
  • Date chutneys/spreads

Avoid any items with added salt, sugar, preservatives, or artificial ingredients.

Be Cautious When Eating Out

Use caution when feeding your baby dates in restaurants or other settings outside the home. Cross-contamination with allergens is a risk.

Notify staff about any food allergies and request that they take extra precautions when preparing your order.

Conclusion

Dates are a nutritious first food when introduced safely and appropriately for your baby’s age and development. Follow these guidelines on when and how to add dates to help promote healthy eating habits and avoid potential issues like allergies or choking. With patience and practice, your baby can learn to love the sweet flavor of dates!

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