How can I introduce yogurt to my baby’s diet?
You are starting solids with your baby – How exciting! Now that your baby has tried a few first foods, you may be ready to incorporate yogurt into their diet.
And, YES, despite warnings against introducing milk before your baby turns 1 year old, yogurt can certainly be added to the list of first foods! Yogurt is made by fermentation, so its proteins can be more easily digested by your baby’s little belly. As long as your pediatrician approves, you can introduce yogurt around the same time your baby begins solids, which is typically around 6 months old. I recommend using Stonyfield Organic YoBaby yogurt. Not only is it the #1 Pediatrician Recommended yogurt for babies 6 months – 2 years, but it also has a creamy texture that is great to mix with purees to give babies new tasty foods.
Let’s go through the basics of how to introduce yogurt to your infant once they are ready.
If yogurt is the first dairy-based food your baby has ever tried, keep an eye on them for an hour after they try it for the first time. Dairy is a major food allergen, so it’s important to be cautious and watch for any potential allergy reactions. When introducing new foods that are top allergens, if possible, give them at home instead of at school or with a caregiver. Start with a small amount on a spoon to see how your baby reacts.
The best yogurt to start with when first starting solids is plain (full fat/whole milk) yogurt like Stonyfield YoBaby cups or Stonyfield YoBaby No Sweetener Added Tubs. This allows your baby to try plain yogurt without the influence of any added flavors or additional textures.
Yogurt has so many incredible nutrients for your baby. It has protein, calcium and vitamin D, and it’s a quick and easy food to give your baby with little to no prep!
After plain yogurt passes the test, within a few days you can start to add in different textures and flavors for even more fun for your exploring baby! Yogurt has so many incredible nutrients for your baby. It has probiotics, protein, calcium and vitamin D. It’s also a quick and easy food to give your baby with little to no prep! There are so many fun ways to serve yogurt, like by adding it to mashed fruit or baked goods or mixing it with vegetables. It can also be a great addition to oatmeal.
All in all, yogurt is a great choice to introduce to your baby early in their food journey. The smooth texture and great taste, ease of digestion, and nutritional benefits make yogurt a delicious and safe first food!
If you have any questions, always reach out to your child’s healthcare provider for more information on how to begin your journey with yogurt.
Happy Feeding!
Author: Dr. Katie Freidman
Substantiation: *For babies 6 months – 2 years among refrigerated yogurts (IQVIA ProVoice Survey, 12/01/15-08/31/23)
Note that the views and opinions expressed in this post are solely that of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions and views of Stonyfield. The content provided and in any linked materials are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice. If you have any questions about health or nutrition, we always think it’s best to consult with your doctor or healthcare practitioner.
