MUMMY TO THE MAX

As Maxwell grows, he's been eager to taste lots of different food. I have been happy to introduce new foods as this gives a variety in his diet. Maxwell is a very good eater and has never had problems with choking on anything neither has he had any reactions however for some babies this is not the case. I have always been clear on what is safe for Maxwell to eat. Some foods are not good for your baby's developing digestive system and some pose a choking hazard.

From 4 - 12 months I was advised by my health visitor not to give Maxwell:

Honey: Honey can harbor spores of Clostridium botulinum, which causes botulism. A baby's intestinal tract can not prevent the growth of these spores and produce life threatening toxins.

Cow's milk and soy milk: Avoid cow's milk and soy milk until your child's first birthday. Your baby can't digest the protein in cow's milk and soy milk for the first year, they don't have all the nutrients he needs like breast milk has or formula, and they contain minerals in amounts that can damage his kidneys.

There are foods that have choking hazards in which are best to avoid. Always remember - A chunk of food larger than a pea is able to get stuck in your child's throat.

• Vegetables such as Carrots and Cauliflower should be mushed down and cooked so they are are soft and easy to eat. Cut fruits like grapes, banana and melon in to small peas sized pieces. 

• Seeds may be too small to choke on but they can get stuck in babies airway and cause an infection.

• Soft foods like marshmallows and jelly can get lodged in your baby's throat. Try and avoid.

• Make sure if giving baby's fish, that all bones have been removed. 

It's a good idea to introduce new foods gradually, waiting several days after you introduce something new to make sure your baby doesn't react badly to it. If you believe that your baby is likely to have food allergies – if allergies run in your family or your baby has moderate to severe eczema – check with your doctor to determine the best way to introduce foods like eggs, milk, peanuts, wheat, soy, tree nuts, fish, and shellfish.