While preparing food for little ones at home, along with/without some herbs & spices, mothers use salt in the food. But is it okay to use?
Answer is No. Salt should not be added to weaning/semi-solid food before 1 year. Straight forward answer is -- because the baby's kidneys are not fully developed. And tiny kidneys are not able to handle high levels of sodium.
Excessive sodium can put a strain on tiny kidneys. And may expose the baby to health problems like dehydration or electrolyte imbalances. High sodium at an early age can also increase the chances of lifestyle/chronic diseases like high blood pressure, obesity, and heart disease.
Important thing is missed here is that, breast milk (if baby is breastfed) or formula milk contains sufficient amount of sodium. A natural amount of salt is found in almost all foods like fruits, vegetables or cereals/millets, etc. Therefore, there is no need for the additional sodium.
At Nutribud Foods, our Co-Founder & Nutritionist Riddhi recommends that parents should avoid adding salt to their Baby food. Natural sources are sufficient. Even toddlers should be kept away from the high processed packaged food/snacks that contains high sodium.
Offer a variety of healthy and nutritious food products that are without any added salt and sugar (also without preservatives, artificial flavors, or colors).
Referring to NHS.UK below is the salt limit,
-- No Added Salt For Below 1-year Babies
-- Only 2g Salt (0.8g sodium) Per Day For 1-3 Years Children