Ruth's Blog
Phytonutrients Uncovered and Discovered!
In a recent blog post, Ruth answered a question about feeding raw parsley to baby where she mentioned phytonutrients. When it comes to phytonutrients (organic components of plants…thought to promote human health – thanks for the definition, WebMD!), which get destroyed during cooking, she mentions that it is better to use raw or steamed greens. Always remember to check the age-appropriateness of raw foods for your baby, though. As Ruth mentioned with parsley – no raw parsley until baby is 9 months old!
Phytonutrients are the big thing now that have been discovered and proven in studies to really be good for you, although not all are “essential” for life. They are the plant nutrients that you may have been hearing about – lutein, lycopene, etc.. The supplement manufactures have jumped in head first and there are now lots of pills with phytonutrients, but don’t use the supplements. Use real whole food, which will have the entire realm of related phytonutrients in the proper proportions.
There’s lots of info on the net, but use only trusted sites that use scientifically proven info. Here’s a page you can trust: http://www.ars.usda.gov/aboutus/docs.htm?docid=4142 You are sure to hear more about phytonutrients from us in the near future!
Parsley is a Super Baby Food!
We love when Moms ask Ruth questions because (1) the questions are always so great and (2) we feel that that for every question asked, thousands of other parents have the same question and will have their question answered! A mom recently asked the following question to Ruth about parsley.
Moms asks:
Hi Ruth. My son is almost 8 mos. old. I’m reading your chapter (in Super Baby Food) about what to feed at 8mos and love the idea of throwing some cooked parsley in the mix, but I’m confused. You say that at 8 months they should only eat cooked parsley, but you also say that cooked parsley tastes bitter. Do you think the cooked parsley mixed with something sweet, like sweet potato will mask the bitterness?
Or should I wait until he can eat it raw? Thanks.
Ruth says:
Absolutely you could mix the cooked parsley in with sweet potatoes and other things he likes to decrease bitterness. However, he can eat it raw soon (by 9 months) but you have to be careful to wash it thoroughly, as with all raw produce, because his little immune system is still immature. I wouldn’t use a microwave – steam it instead.
Here is more interesting information:
Within the last few weeks I read where microwave ovens destroy more of some phytonutrients than steaming. Organic produce is best and is definitely worth the extra dollars in my opinion because babies don’t eat too much and pesticides get concentrated in their little bodies since they eat lots of food for their little sizes. Make sure it has the certified organic symbol.
I’m finding out that raw parsley is up there with kale, maybe even better, and you know how I adore kale if you read my section in Super Baby Food on Super Greens. 
AND now the AAP says spices (super sources of phytonutrients) are OK for babies starting around 6 months. Don’t use imported spices which may contain heavy metals. Frontier is a nice organic brand you can trust.
Finger Foods For Baby and Toddler: Everything you ever wanted to know
Dr Greene.com recently asked Ruth to be a special guest perspectives blogger on their informational website. Ruth was more than happy to provide 5 terrific blog posts sharing all kinds of great, detailed information on finger foods and tips for getting started with finger foods for babies and toddlers. In case you missed it, here is a description and a link to each fantastic blog post.
Finger Foods: What They Are And Why They Are Important To Your Baby’s Diet
Getting Started With Finger Foods
Finger Food Ideas For Baby and Toddler: Fruits, Whole Grains, and Vegetables
Baby and Toddler Finger Food Ideas Galore: Proteins, Dairy, Omega 3 Healthy Fats
Baby and Toddler Finger Food Ideas Galore: Seeds and Dips
Super Baby Food is happy to be a part of the Dr. Greene team! Be sure to check out some of the other terrific information on Dr. Greene’s website.
Moms Want to Know: Vitamin Greens and Bok Choy for Baby?
A Mom Asks:
I am just beginning to feed my second child solid foods using your Super Baby Food book as a guide. Our CSA share this week included “vitamin greens” and I am wondering if they can be prepared as other greens and fed to my son when he is old enough for cooked greens. I also wonder about “bok choy”. Thank you for your help, and for writing such an excellent resource for parents.
Ruth Says:
Vitamin greens (I don’t why they call them that since all green leafy vegetables are loaded with vitamins) and bok choy should be introduced to your baby just as any other veggies. Use the 4-day wait rule.
Cook as you would kale. Thanks for writing!
Super Baby Food Proudly Presents Ebooks for Your Super Baby Food Questions
Super Baby Food proudly presents three fantastic Ebooks available today on SuperBabyFood.com (and other online outlets) providing you with Super Baby Food tips on three very important topics:
Quick Start Guide to Feeding Your Super Baby
Starting solids is an important time for parents and baby. Find the answers to these and many other “starting solids” questions:
-How old should baby be to start solids?
-What exactly should I feed my baby?
-How can I keep my little guy safe when feeding?
-Is preparing my own baby food practical, inexpensive?
Traveling & Restaurants with Your Super Baby
Every parent needs a break from homebase but the thought of venturing out with a baby can be daunting! These Ebook tips can help you succeed!
-Packing your little one’s bag including a Master Pack List
-Tips for traveling around the corner and around the globe.
-Dining with your little one at a restaurant with ease!
-Smart helps to properly research your trip to insure a “family-friendly” trip
Going Green for Your Super Baby
Going Green isn’t just fashion, it’s necessary – for you, your home, and for your baby. This informative Ebook provides tips and information for every parent to “Go Green.” Here is a preview of just a few of the topics covered:
-Why Organics is the way to go.
-Buying organic food – the how, the where, and the why
-Household cleaning products that are good for the environment, too.
-Toys can be organic – here’s how.
To download your Super Baby Food Ebooks today, visit the Super Baby Food website today!
