Pumpkin often gets a bad nutritional rap since it is usually found combined with fats and sugars in pumpkin pie, breads and other pastries, but in its pure form, this orange wonder is incredibly nutritious for your baby.
Commonly mistaken as a vegetable, this fruit is high in vitamin A and beta carotene. Pumpkins are also great sources of protein, iron and potassium while being naturally low in fat and calories and high in fiber. It is the perfect fall treat for your baby’s plate.
Choose the right pumpkin
Remember, all pumpkins are are not created equal. You don’t want to eat the Jack-o-lantern variety because they’ve been bred for size and not flavor. They won’t harm you; they just won’t taste great. Choose the smaller “pie” or “sugar” varieties of pumpkin. These are sweeter and much richer in flavor. Canned pumpkin or frozen pumpkin are also great alternatives. When selecting canned pumpkin, however, make sure the ingredients list only pumpkin. Don’t buy pumpkin pie filling.