Foods Not to Feed Your Baby, With Functional Nutritionist Ravina Thomas
When it comes to infant nutrition, it’s just as important to know what not to feed your baby as it is to know what to include. Functional medicine practitioner and certified Ontario educator Ravina Thomas has over 25 years of experience supporting families and offers these expert recommendations for keeping your little one’s diet safe and nourishing.
Honey for Babies Under One
Honey may seem harmless, but Ravina stresses that it’s dangerous for babies under 12 months. Honey can carry spores of Clostridium botulinum, which infants cannot digest. This can lead to a serious illness called infant botulism. To keep your baby safe, avoid honey completely until after their first birthday.
Highly Processed Foods
Processed foods with long ingredient lists, especially those with more than five ingredients or unrecognizable names are best avoided. Ravina explains that these products often contain additives and artificial substances that can harm gut health and contribute to inflammation. Choosing fresh, whole foods instead will provide better nutrition and fewer chemical additives.
Artificial Sugars and Sweeteners
Artificial sweeteners and added sugars are also on Ravina’s “do not feed” list. She encourages parents to replace them with natural sweeteners such as bananas, dates, baked apples with cinnamon, or fresh fruit purées. These alternatives are nutrient-rich and support healthier eating habits from an early age.
Watch for Hidden Sugars
Even savory products like ketchup can contain surprising amounts of sugar. Ravina advises checking labels closely and opting for homemade or low-sugar versions whenever possible.
Quick Guide: Celiac Safe Foods for Children
For families navigating celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, keeping meals free from gluten is essential. The following celiac-safe foods for children are naturally gluten-free and nutrient-rich:
Fresh fruits and vegetables
Plain meats, poultry, and fish
Gluten-free whole grains (quinoa, millet, rice, buckwheat)
Legumes and beans
Dairy products that are labeled gluten-free
Snacks made in certified gluten-free facilities to avoid cross-contamination
Food Sensitivities and Inflammatory Triggers
While not all children have food sensitivities, Ravina notes that certain items like dairy in some cases can contribute to inflammation, skin issues, or digestive discomfort. If symptoms arise, consider tracking foods and working with a healthcare professional to identify potential triggers.
Key Takeaways:
Avoid honey for babies under 12 months.
Limit processed foods with long ingredient lists.
Skip artificial sugars and sweeteners in favor of natural options.
Check labels for hidden sugars.
Monitor for potential food sensitivities and triggers.
For celiac children, focus on naturally gluten-free whole foods.
By following Ravina’s expert guidance on foods not to feed your baby and making mindful choices for children with gluten sensitivities, you can help set the foundation for lifelong health.