Can babies eat cassava starch

Babies are generally not recommended to consume cassava starch. Cassava starch may contain trace amounts of cyanogenic glycosides and pose potential risks due to underdeveloped digestive systems in infants. Cassava starch is processed from cassava roots and stems, and untreated cassava may contain trace amounts of natural toxins. The detoxification function of infant liver is weak, and the ability to metabolize cyanogenic glycosides is limited. Long term or large intake may affect health. Infants under 6 months of age should use breast milk or formula milk as the only source of nutrition. After adding complementary foods, they should also give priority to digestible and hypoallergenic ingredients, such as Rice noodles or oatmeal flour. The World Health Organization recommends that infant complementary foods should start with single ingredient, hypoallergenic foods and gradually transition to complex ingredients. Cassava starch is usually detoxified in industrial processing, but homemade food may not be able to completely remove harmful ingredients. If parents insist on using it, they must ensure the purchase of food safety certified products and strictly control their intake. Some countries use cassava starch as a supplementary food thickener, but it needs to be consumed together with other nutrient rich ingredients. In special circumstances, such as infants with lactose intolerance or grain allergies, alternative options should be selected under the guidance of a doctor.

Infant diet should prioritize safety and balanced nutrition. In addition to avoiding cassava starch, parents should also pay attention to the taboos of high-risk foods such as honey and nuts. It is recommended to follow the gradual principle of adding complementary foods from thin to thick and from small to large. Allergic reactions should be observed for 3-5 days after introducing new ingredients. Regular growth and development assessments should be conducted, and if necessary, professional pediatric nutritionists should be consulted to develop personalized feeding plans to ensure that infants receive sufficient and safe nutritional supply.