Is it okay to feed my baby a vegetarian diet?

Yes. Your baby can get all the vitamins, minerals, and protein he or she needs from a nutritious, balanced vegetarian diet. In fact, feeding your baby that way comes fairly naturally at this stage: A 6-month-old still derives most of his or her nutrients from breast milk or formula, and the first solid foods to introduce are infant cereal and pureed fruits and vegetables.

Anything I should watch out for?

Your baby will need protein, which fuels the ability to grow and heal, so with a meatless diet you'll need to make an effort to include alternative sources. Let your baby's doctor know if you plan to further limit your baby's diet to a vegan one – that is, one that doesn't include eggs or dairy products – because you'll need to take special care that he or she gets enough of certain nutrients, including vitamins B12 and D, riboflavin, calcium, and zinc. A vegan diet can be especially low in iron, so you should make sure your baby gets iron-rich foods like whole grains, fortified cereals, and leafy greens such as spinach.

What are some good vegetarian sources of protein and other nutrients?

Alternatives to meat and poultry that are appropriate for a baby eating solid and finger foods are cottage cheese, tofu, beans (well cooked and mashed), enriched whole grains (bread, pasta, rice, and cereal), yogurt, and cheese. When your baby is ready for finger foods, make sure to offer them in bite-size pieces.

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