Belly Love’s Ultimate Guide to Nutrition for Babies and Toddlers

By Tammie Delveaux Rubenzer, NTP, INHC, BME

Pushing the Boundaries of Fertility Nutrition

Forget the old-school approach—modern fertility science is revealing game-changing dietary hacks to maximize your reproductive potential. A next-level nutrition plan can supercharge egg and sperm quality, balance hormones, and significantly boost conception rates.

Power Nutrients for Fertility:

• Folate (not Folic Acid): Beyond preventing birth defects, folate enhances cellular regeneration. Found in leafy greens, citrus fruits, and sprouted grains.

• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: These potent anti-inflammatory compounds turbocharge egg quality. Found in wild-caught salmon, chia seeds, and algae oil.

• Iron: Boosts ovulation and energy. Best sources are liver, dark chocolate, and lentils.

• Zinc: The secret weapon for sperm vitality and hormone regulation. Find it in oysters, pumpkin seeds, and grass-fed beef.

• Vitamin D: Dubbed the ‘fertility vitamin,’ it strengthens the immune system and balances hormones. Sunlight, mushrooms, and egg yolks are great sources.

Fertility Saboteurs:

• Ditch ultra-processed foods and plastics—they disrupt hormone function.

• Cut back on caffeine and alcohol, known disruptors of egg and sperm health.

Next-Gen Baby and Toddler Nutrition

The first few years shape a child’s lifelong health. Cutting-edge research shows that gut health, brain development, and immunity start with nutrient-dense early feeding.

Beyond Breastfeeding:

• Breast milk is the gold standard, packed with bioactive compounds and probiotics.

• Formula feeding has come a long way—opt for organic, minimally processed options.

• Introduce solids at six months with an emphasis on iron, protein, and healthy fats.

Supercharged First Foods:

• Grass-fed liver puree—nature’s multivitamin.

• Wild-caught salmon for brain-boosting DHA.

• Avocado and nut butters for crucial healthy fats.

• Steamed and mashed root veggies for slow-digesting carbs.

• Bone broth for collagen, minerals, and gut healing.

Toddler Power Nutrition:

• Stick to whole, minimally processed foods.

• Encourage diverse flavors to expand taste preferences.

• Hydration is key—limit juice and prioritize water.

Postpartum Power Nutrition

Recovery from childbirth is a marathon, not a sprint. Your body needs intense nourishment to heal and sustain milk production.

Recovery Superfoods:

• Protein and Iron: Aid tissue repair and replenish blood loss. Prioritize eggs, organ meats, and legumes.

• Hydration: Essential for energy and milk supply. Coconut water, herbal teas, and bone broth work wonders.

• Healthy Fats: Balance postpartum hormones and sustain energy. Load up on avocado, salmon, and olive oil.

• Calcium and Vitamin D: Support bone integrity, especially for breastfeeding moms.

• Milk-Boosting Galactagogues: Oats, fenugreek, fennel, and flaxseeds can naturally enhance supply.

Postpartum Pitfalls:

• Steer clear of ultra-processed convenience foods—they can spike inflammation and drain energy.

• Identify potential allergens that may transfer through breast milk and cause colic in the baby.

The Future of Family Nutrition

Optimizing nutrition from fertility to postpartum isn’t just about survival—it’s about thriving. Science-backed, boundary-pushing nutrition empowers parents and children to reach peak health. Small shifts create lasting impact, paving the way for a stronger, healthier next generation.