Weight Loss & Diet Plans

The Baby Food Diet: Review

The Baby Food Diet: What the Experts Say continued...

“It is an interesting concept that removes the pleasure of chewing and controls calories with portioned jars, but it could backfire and lead to binges or overeating too many little jars,” says Mooloo, a nutrition consultant based in Sacramento, Calif.

When you choose pureed food over natural foods you miss out on valuable nutrients and fiber. 

“Eat an apple or carrot instead of a jar of applesauce or carrots. It is more satisfying to crunch and chew and you get the benefit of more fullness and fiber at much less expense," Mooloo says. 

Chewing is associated with feelings of fullness and satiety that can’t be replaced with pureed foods that go down easily and may make you feel hungrier. 

But if you want to try baby food, Mooloo suggests storing a few jars of low-calorie fruits and sweets in your briefcase, drawer, or pantry for a quick, healthy, calorie-controlled alternative to higher-calorie treats.

The Baby Food Diet: Food for Thought

In my opinion, a diet of baby food is just another gimmick that will likely lose its appeal quickly because most adults will miss grown-up meals and the satisfaction and pleasure of chewing food with texture. 

Applesauce, peaches and pears may sound tasty enough. But pureed meats are more likely to send dieters running in search of a more suitable plan.

My advice: Skip this diet in favor of a real-food diet rich in fruits and vegetables that are crunchy, full of fiber, and are much more satisfying than baby food.

Kathleen Zelman, MPH, RD, is director of nutrition for WebMD. Her opinions and conclusions are her own.