What foods Should I avoid giving to my baby while they are teething? Food Ideas for Teething Babies

The journey of parenthood is filled with joy, love, and quite a lot of challenges.

One such challenge (which isn't talked about or covered enough, in our humble opinion...) is when your little one starts teething. This period can be quite uncomfortable for the baby, causing them to be fussy and irritable. As a parent, you naturally want to do everything you can to soothe their discomfort and it is so tough when they can't tell you exactly what is wrong. There are a myriad of things that you can try in order to help make them more comfortable (as discussed in this blog post we wrote) and one way to help is by providing appropriate food that not only satisfies their hunger but also eases their teething pain. However, it's equally important to know what foods you should avoid giving to your baby when they are teething.

Let's explore some food ideas for teething babies and discuss the types of food that should be avoided during this crucial stage of growth.

Foods That Can Cause Choking

The first category of foods that should be avoided are those that pose a choking hazard. Babies at the teething stage are still learning how to chew and swallow properly. Therefore, hard foods like nuts or popcorn should be avoided as they can easily get lodged in a baby's throat.

Similarly, round or slippery foods like whole grapes or hot dogs can also pose a choking risk. If you wish to offer these foods, ensure they are cut into small pieces that are easy for your baby to handle.

Foods That Can Damage Emerging Teeth

Another category of food that should be avoided during the teething phase includes those which could potentially damage your baby’s emerging teeth. Sugary snacks and drinks are the main culprits here as they encourage tooth decay even in very young children.

While it might seem harmless to offer your little one a sip of juice or a bite of your chocolate bar, these habits could lead to dental issues down the line. Instead, opt for healthier alternatives like water or milk and fresh fruits.

Foods That Can Cause Allergies

While introducing new foods to your baby, it's important to follow your health providers advice and be cautious of potential allergens. Foods like eggs, peanuts, and shellfish can cause allergic reactions in some babies. While it's not necessary to completely avoid these foods, they should be introduced gradually and one at a time. This way, if your baby does have a reaction, you'll be able to identify the culprit more easily.

Food Ideas for Teething Babies

Now that we've covered what foods to avoid, let's look at some food ideas for teething babies that are safe and soothing. 

1. Cold Foods: Cold foods can provide relief from teething pain. Try offering chilled fruits like bananas or peaches.

2. Soft Foods: Soft foods are easier for babies to handle while teething. Cooked vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes are a good option as they can be mashed into an easy-to-eat consistency. 

4. Breast Milk or Formula: If your baby is particularly fussy during meal times due to teething pain, don't forget that breast milk or formula is still their primary source of nutrition until they're one year old.

In conclusion, while the teething phase can be challenging both for the baby and parents alike, being aware of what foods babies should avoid while teething and offering safe and soothing food options can make this stage easier to navigate. Always remember that each child is unique; what works for one might not work for another. So don't hesitate to experiment with different food ideas for teething babies until you find what works best for your little one, and please make sure to always supervise your little one when trying any of the foods or techniques mentioned in any of our blog posts.