Watermelon can be introduced as soon as the baby is ready for solid foods, which usually happens around 6 months of age. Note that watermelon juices often cause gagging in infants and toddlers. Watermelon boasts the powerful antioxidant lycopene (higher levels in red watermelon than tomatoes) and other phytonutrients such as beta-carotene, which supports immune function, and a unique amino acid called citrulline, which may promote healthy blood pressure.

Watermelon also contains some vitamin C, which can help absorb iron from plant foods, so consider pairing watermelon with ingredients like quinoa, lentils, chia seeds, or leafy greens. In many cultures, watermelon rinds are quite commonly eaten in a variety of ways, such as being pickled, fermented, stewed, fried, candied, or made into jam.

Offering fiber, vitamins, and minerals, watermelon rinds also contain the amino acid citrulline, which means the rind may be just as beneficial for blood pressure as watermelon flesh. sometimes enjoyable, delay until the baby’s first birthday to give these foods regularly to minimize the baby’s exposure to salt and sugar.