DrNicoleAvena

"If you’re reading this book, you’ve most likely just started on the magical roller coaster of being a new parent. In between those nighttime feedings, endless diaper changes, and crying, I hope you have had time to take a step back and see how special you are. Being a parent is a blessing, and although at times it can be physically and mentally draining, it is the most important and rewarding job you will ever have."

~ Dr Nicole Avena

"As a neuroscientist with a focus on appetite and nutrition, I spend most of my days thinking about and testing how what we eat affects our brains and behaviors. I know that the foods we eat as adults can dramatically affect our health, and the same goes for a growing baby. I also have firsthand experience with the trials and tribulations of trying to eat well, both during pregnancy and when it comes to feeding a baby."

~ Dr Nicole Avena

"When it came time to start feeding my daughter solids, I noticed there wasn’t a lot of helpful information out there in terms of which foods she should be eating. I knew from my research that there were extremely important developmental changes occurring in the brain during these precious months, and so I knew that this was a key time to support that development with proper nutrition."

~ Dr Nicole Avena

"I wanted to write this book to help new parents navigate the feeding of their infant and toddler. We already all know we are supposed to limit the candy and sweets and other unhealthful processed foods, so in this book I wanted to focus instead on how we can capitalize on all the good that foods can do to promote health at critical points during development. The goals of this book are to (1) offer guidance on what to feed your baby and toddler and (2) provide a plan for how you can actually do it!"

~ Dr Nicole Avena

"One of the most important ways we can care for our babies is by feeding them the proper foods at each developmental stage. By giving proper nutrition, you can help your baby to not only stay well (we all know that there is nothing fun about a baby with a cold or virus!) but also develop taste preferences and food intake habits that they will carry with them throughout their life. Ensure that each meal is packed with nutrients that are appropriate for each baby's developmental stage."

~ Dr Nicole Avena

"What does 'eating healthy" even mean? All the conflicting information out there can make your head spin. Many parents wonder what foods they should offer (or avoid offering) their little one to ensure their baby gets the best start. Parents want to know why this food is good or bad for them. The goal of this book is to give an account of the science behind why what you feed your baby matters, as well as provide a plan to ensure they are on the best path toward being healthy and developing a healthy palate."

~ Dr Nicole Avena