Complementary feeding of a child under the age of one year is an extremely responsible process, since thoughtless feeding with seemingly useful products can turn into a strong and dangerous allergy or lead to disruption of the body's functioning. Thus, if parents want to teach their 8-month-old baby to watermelon, it is important to do it gradually and under the supervision of a doctor.
Is watermelon good for a child
A large and juicy berry, watermelon contains vitamins of group B and C, pectins, fiber, iron and magnesium in abundance. These substances take an active part in the formation of the child's musculoskeletal system, strengthen his body, and increase the absorption of other products. In addition, watermelon almost entirely consists of water, so its use normalizes digestion, removes accumulated toxins from the body.
With all this, it is important to remember that watermelon often causes allergic reactions even in adults. It is also contraindicated in the presence of diabetes mellitus, kidney disease and pancreas. Nursing mothers should refrain from eating this berry during pregnancy, as well as during early breastfeeding - until the child reaches the age of 6 months.
When to teach a child to watermelon
Already from the age of seven months, the baby is allowed to give complementary foods in the form of a variety of fruits and vegetables, but not in whole form, but as carefully grated puree or freshly squeezed juice. You must first consult with your pediatrician. He will examine the baby, ask a few questions about his nutrition, and then approve the new complementary foods and prescribe the appropriate serving size.
In the first few days, it is recommended to give the child a teaspoon of fresh watermelon juice, diluted with water in the same ratio. In the absence of allergic and other negative reactions, you can offer the baby a small handful of berry pulp (no more than 100-150 g per day), keeping it to room temperature. From the pulp, you must first remove all the bones, and also rinse it in water.
In order for the watermelon to be well absorbed, it is better to give it to the baby after the main meal as a dessert. Important indicators of the assimilation of the berry are urination and stool of the child. On the days of drinking watermelon, the frequency of urination and the amount of urine should increase in proportion to the amount eaten. As for the stool, it must also be timely and without a change in consistency. Otherwise, it is recommended to temporarily exclude watermelon from the diet or reduce the size of the daily portion.
