WEBHEALTHS.COM– Coconut milk for baby solids can help provide a savory taste. However, coconut milk cannot be used as a substitute for breast milk or formula in complementary foods. The recommended dose is not too much to prevent obesity in infants.
In addition to offering a savory taste, coconut milk also contains nutrients that the body needs. Some people may avoid coconut milk because it is claimed to trigger health problems in the elderly.
Is coconut milk safe for baby solids?
Coconut milk for baby complementary foods is considered safe as long as it is not excessive.
This product of grated coconut flesh that has gone through a filtering process. Coconut milk is a high-calorie food . As many as 93% of the calories in coconut milk come from saturated fat.
In addition to calories and fat, coconut milk also contains protein, fiber, carbohydrates, vitamin C, folate, iron, magnesium, potassium, copper, manganese, and selenium. These various nutrients are certainly needed by the body to support health.
In the right amount, the benefits of coconut milk for the body of course still exist, including to complement the nutritional needs of babies in MPASI. In addition to increasing nutritional intake, the use of coconut milk for complementary foods can also enrich the taste.
However, given the high content of saturated fat and calories, coconut milk should be consumed in small amounts. You can add as much as 1-2 tablespoons of coconut milk to food or complementary foods for babies .
In adults, consuming too much coconut milk can trigger various health problems.
The American Heart Association recommends reducing your intake of saturated fat, including coconut milk.
Meanwhile, although babies need fat for growth, too much coconut milk can also increase the risk of obesity in babies and allergies.
Coconut products include foods that are also potential allergens and cause allergic reactions in some people.
It is important for you to consult a doctor to determine whether your baby has an allergy to coconut milk or not, as well as the right dose for complementary foods.
Tips for safe consumption of coconut milk for baby solids
To get the benefits of coconut milk, here are some safe tips for consuming coconut milk, especially for baby complementary foods:
- Make sure the baby is not allergic or has a food intolerance to coconut milk. Consult a doctor to make sure
- Coconut milk is only consumed as an addition to complementary foods, not as the main ingredient
- Do not use coconut milk as a substitute for breast milk or formula milk
- Not too much, just 1-2 tablespoons in the MPASI mixture
- Avoid raw or unprocessed coconut milk because it increases the risk of allergies due to microorganism contamination
- Homemade coconut milk is recommended to avoid sweeteners and other additives
- Store coconut milk in the refrigerator to maintain its shelf life. It’s best not to store coconut milk for too long because it can affect its quality. If the packaging has been opened, don’t store it for days
- Use coconut milk immediately or before the expiration date
- Avoid putting coconut milk in the freezer . Some packaged coconut milk manufacturers do not recommend this
