Meats are now being recommended as a first food for babies, especially for breastfed babies. Many pediatric authorities, specifically in Canada, the EU and the U.K. recommend meat as one of baby’s first solid foods. Meat may be a good first food but probably not THE first food. You might give meat a try between 6-8 months old.

Introducing meats earlier will help baby gain more iron, zinc and also protein. Offering meats around the time that baby’s iron stores may be depleting will help ensure a steady stream of heme-iron. Meats are rich in this form of Iron that is most easily absorbed and used by our bodies. In the U.S., it is most often recommended that meats be introduced between 7-8 months of age with the advice of your pediatrician.

Chicken or turkey is generally recommended as the first meats to introduce to your baby. As always, it is recommended that you consult your pediatrician about introducing solid foods to your baby as generalities may not apply to your baby.

Baking is really the best methd of cooking any food. Baking food helps the foods retain the most of their nutrients.

Original article: http://wholesomebabyfood.momtastic.com/meats.htm