The "carnivore diet" has a powerful following among adults who believe it helps them stay fit and strong. Maybe that's why some parents wonder if this way of eating could benefit babies too. (In fact, there's so much buzz around this idea that "carnivore babies" has become a hot topic on social media.)
But an infant's nutritional needs can't be met through a meat-forward diet. Consuming only animal fat, flesh, eggs and milk leaves dangerous gaps in a little one's diet. Plant-based foods are necessary for healthy growth and development. Here's why.
Myths and truths about what babies should eat
Humans are
omnivores, which literally means we eat everything. Our diet has included fruits, vegetables, grains and
legumes (such as beans, peas, lentils and peanuts) along with meat, eggs and milk for thousands of years. Over time, our bodies have grown to rely on nutrients in plant-based foods for strong bones, healthy brain cells and much more.
A family's food preferences might reflect culture, cost considerations and other factors. But this doesn't mean that one kind of food or diet is better, safer or more natural than all others. Research shows that variety is the key to healthy eating for babies (and grownups).
Little ones need nutrients from a range of foods
Most babies can
begin eating solid foods around 4 to 6 months. Here's what each food group does to help little brains and bodies thrive.
Fruits and vegetables: These foods have natural fiber, a must for your baby's gut health. They also deliver nutrients like potassium, magnesium, folate and vitamins A, B2 and C in forms your baby's body can readily absorb.
Whole grains: Plain oatmeal, whole-grain breads and other minimally processed grains supply iron, fiber, B vitamins and other minerals for your baby's growth, along with the quick energy that fuels alertness and movement.
Proteins: Babies need protein for strong muscles, tissues and organs. They can get protein from
plant-based sources as well as favorites like chicken, turkey, pork, lamb or beef. Cow or goat milk can be offered after 12 months, when your baby's digestive system is ready to handle it.
Keeping breast milk on the menu
The AAP recommends providing your baby only breastmilk for approximately 6 months after birth. After that, the AAP supports continued breastfeeding, along with introductory foods. You should continue breastfeeding after introducing foods at 6 months for as long as you and your child wish, for 2 years or beyond. Check with your child's doctor about the recommendations for vitamin D and iron supplements during the first year.
Feeding your child for lifelong health
What your baby eats now will have a strong influence on their adult tastes. A protein-only diet may lead them to skip other foods later, which can harm their adult health. Consuming too much fat and protein can lead to
kidney and liver problems, gout, osteoporosis and other serious issues. A diet rich in veggies, fruits, beans, lentils and whole grains has been shown to prevent a wide range of diseases and help adults maintain a healthy weight.
Pro tip: You don't have to rely on store-bought purees or pouches to add plant-based foods to your baby's diet. Whole foods like bananas, berries, melon, avocados, peas, beans and lightly cooked veggies can be mashed or pureed at home. Find tips for safely making your own baby food
here.
Remember
Plant-based foods deliver crucial nutrients that are missing from a carnivore diet. Babies need these nutrients, along with natural fiber, to grow and develop healthfully.
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