PF Dietitians

💚 Happy Dietitians Week! 💚

Powered by passion. Guided by science.

Today, we celebrate a profession dedicated to helping people live healthier lives through evidence-based nutrition care. It is a privilege to support, educate, and empower individuals on their journey to better health.

Here's to making a difference, one patient at a time. 🌿

🥣💛 Why Iron is Important for Babies (6+ Months)
By six months, babies’ iron stores from pregnancy start to run out. While breastmilk still provides some iron, babies now need iron-rich foods to stay healthy and strong.

At this age, babies need iron-rich foods such as liver, meat, eggs, spinach and mopane worms.

These foods are rich in iron and nutrients, and should be well-cooked, soft, and mashed or minced, and given daily if possible.

It is very important to start with iron rich foods from six months alongside fortified maize meal and vegetables.

🥚 Eggs are often avoided, but they are affordable, nutritious, and safe. They provide both iron and protein for your little one.

Remember, if your child coughs after every meal, spills most of their food or vomits often when they eat, please take your baby to the clinic to get them assessed.

For more information visit our website: https://sidebyside.co.za/

National Department of Health (South Africa)

This Mother’s Day, celebrate the women who carry the weight of the world with love, patience, and strength every single day.

Happy Mother’s Day to every amazing mom out there 🌷

🍳 Breakfasts ideas that actually keep you full longer

The right mix of protein, healthy fats & fiber can help you stay satisfied, energized & avoid random cravings later 🍓🥑🥜

Simple, balanced & easy breakfast ideas you can actually make 🙌

Educative advice, NOT individualized advice❗

How to practise mommy self-care during pregnancy

🍏Eat a variety of healthy foods such as red meat, nuts, at least 2 fruits a day and drink plenty of water.

💊Take prenatal vitamins as recommended by your healthcare provider.

🏋🏾Avoid lifting heavy objects.

🚫Avoid exposure to second-hand smoke.

🫂Look after your mental health by sharing your feelings with a trusted friend or family member, practising calming breathing exercises when you feel overwhelmed, and engaging in moderate physical activity.

👟Move your body, but do not exhaust yourself. You should be able to hold a conversation when you exercise during your pregnancy.

If you want to find out which foods to avoid during pregnancy, please speak to your doctor or nurse.

Happy and healthy mommies raise happy and healthy babies!

Cc:SidebySide

Did you know…

A child’s future growth, learning, and wellbeing are shaped by the food choices made.
Every meal, every choice — it all matters in shaping a healthier generation. 🌿💛

Looking for a new first food to try?
Creamy Rice & Spinach Purée is easy, nutritious, and full of goodness for babies 6 months and older.

Why it’s great for baby:
🌿 Spinach is full of iron, fibre, and Vitamin C — good for strong blood and a healthy immune system.
🍚 Rice is easy to digest and makes a smooth, creamy base for new eaters.

🥄Start with just 1–2 teaspoons after breastfeeding
💛 Breastmilk is still baby’s main source of nutrition until 1 year 👶 Watch for signs of difficulty swallowing, like coughing during or after eating, food spilling out of the mouth, or a wet-sounding voice or chest. If you’re concerned, visit your clinic for help from the doctor or speech therapist.

Save this recipe card and share it with a friend starting their solids journey!

🌱 National Nutrition Week 2025
The First 1 000 Days: A Window of Opportunity
From pregnancy to your baby’s second birthday, these first 1 000 days lay the foundation for lifelong health.
During this time, your baby’s brain grows rapidly, reaching 80% of its adult size! 🧠💚
💡 Did you know?
Good nutrition in these early years strengthens the immune system.
Breastfeeding offers complete nutrition and protects both the baby and mother.

A child’s future growth, learning, and wellbeing are shaped by the food choices made today.
Let’s support families by:
👩🏾‍⚕️ Encouraging breastfeeding and balanced meals.
🏥 Visiting clinics for growth monitoring, supplements, and feeding advice.
💬 Creating breastfeeding-friendly spaces in our communities and workplaces.
Every meal, every choice - it all matters in shaping a healthier generation. 🌿💛

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