Why Banana Is the Best First Fruit for Babies — Benefits and Ways to Give It

Dr. Sandip Gupta

The doctor generally suggests banana as the first fruit for a baby. This video explains why, and how to give it at different stages. Why banana: It is rich in calories, easily digestible, and naturally sweet in flavour, so it is easily accepted by babies. Banana is also very rich in minerals and vitamins like potassium, calcium, zinc, magnesium, folate and B6, which help in the growth and development of babies. It is also a very good food to prevent constipation in babies because it is very rich in fibre. How to give it at each stage: Banana can be given at any stage of a child's growth. At 6 months – it can be started as a first food in the form of purée. Later, when the baby learns to pick up food and put it in the mouth (mouthing) – you can give banana in cut pieces as a finger food. As the baby grows older – you can mix banana with milk and curd to make lassi and smoothie, which is also very nutritionally rich for the baby's growth and development. Banana is a very healthy option to keep in your baby's everyday meal. Relevant for: parents choosing a first fruit for their baby at 6 months; parents asking whether banana is safe and good for infants; parents whose baby has constipation and who want fibre-rich fruits; parents wanting to know how to give banana as purée, finger food or in lassi and smoothies; parents looking for calorie-rich, easily digestible foods for growth; and parents whose baby is starting to self-feed or mouthing food. Disclaimer: This video is for general information and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Every child is different — please consult your pediatrician before starting banana or any new food, especially if your child is under 6 months or has an allergy, and always supervise your baby with finger foods to prevent choking.