After feeding a baby exclusively with formula or breast milk, what solid food is good to introduce? A common practice among traditional cultures is to feed egg yolks to weaning babies; now this practice has been confirmed by current research. A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition compared the nutritional effects of feeding weaning infants six to 12 months of age regular egg yolks, enriched egg yolks or an otherwise normal diet. The researchers found that both breast-fed and formula-fed infants who consumed the egg yolks had improved iron levels, when compared with the infants who did not. In addition, those infants who got the egg yolks enriched with extra fatty acids had 30 percent to 40 percent greater levels of the brain-building fatty acid DHA than those fed the regular variety. Furthermore, they saw no significant effect on blood cholesterol levels.

Cholesterol, found in high concentrations in both breast milk and egg yolks, plays an important role in a growing body. It is vital for the growth of the central nervous system, helps with fat digestion, and is necessary for the production of a number of hormones (e.g. adrenal and reproductive). Be sure to favor egg yolks from pasture-fed hens or those raised on flax meal, fish meal or insects since that enhances the DHA level. Forgo the egg white until after six months of age, since that is the portion that most often causes allergic reactions. Boil an egg for three to four minutes, peel away the shell and white, mash up the yolk (which helps facilitate brain development) and that’s it. Be assured you are giving your baby vital nutrients to increase development and brain power!

Source: http://www.naturalgrocers.com/article-eggsandweaning.html