Baby-Led Weaning with Katie Ferraro Tree Nuts: How to Introduce Your Baby to this Potentially Allergenic Food
May 19, 2025
Latifat Okara, a public health nutritionist and founder of Nom Nom Babies, discusses the early introduction of tree nuts to infants, highlighting its potential to reduce allergy risks. She shares practical tips on safely serving tree nuts, emphasizing the importance of modifications like almond flour and thinned nut butter. Okara clarifies why almond milk doesn’t suffice for introducing nut protein and notes which tree nuts are best for babies, with a surprising reminder that coconut isn’t included. This is a must-listen for parents looking to expand their baby's palate safely!
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Daughter's Stalled Growth Motivated Change
- Latifat's daughter gained no weight while she was away for four months at Harvard.
- Caregivers lacked knowledge of nutrition despite available resources, which motivated Latifat's nutrition education efforts.
PAP Filling but Nutrient-Poor
- PAP, a traditional maize-based porridge in Nigeria, fills babies up without giving essential nutrients.
- High carbohydrate filler foods are accessible but contribute to nutritional deficiencies in babies.
Use Local Foods for Nutrition
- Use local Nigerian foods like plantain and egg yolk to create nutritious, baby-friendly meals.
- Prepare baby-led weaning finger foods, such as plantain chips, to promote self-feeding and nutrient intake.