What are the benefits of feeding fish to my baby?
Essential fatty acids are necessary for the proper development of the brain and eyes. They also help in maintaining healthy heart function.
Fish is also a good source of vitamin D and nutrients such as iron, iodine, selenium, magnesium, and copper.
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This makes fish a healthy and nutritious food for your child.
When can my baby start eating fish?
Fish can be a healthy part of your child's diet soon after he begins to eat solid food, which is usually when he's around six months old.
However, it's best to check with the doctor first because fish is one of the top allergenic foods. It is recommended you start with traditional first solids (such as baby cereal and puréed fruits and vegetables) before offering your baby fish and seafood.
In some coastal areas, for example, fish may be fed to a baby even before he turns six months. Some parents also plan to start solids when their baby is between four and six months. So if you're thinking of doing the same for your baby, you should discuss it with your doctor. In any case, the earliest a baby should try solid food is at the end of his fourth month (17 weeks).
Also, talk to the doctor before introducing fish or shellfish, if your baby:
- Has moderate to severe eczema
- Has had an immediate allergic reaction to a food in the past
- Was previously diagnosed with a food allergy
In these cases it's better to wait until your baby is at least six months old.
That said, there’s no need to delay introducing fish in your baby's diet. Introducing fish later on doesn’t make allergy, or allergic disease such as asthma and eczema less likely.
How should I introduce fish in my baby's diet?
As with any new food, introduce it slowly, one food at a time. Make sure that the fish is de-boned properly and well-cooked. Once done, mash it well and recheck for any bones as they can cause choking.
Give your baby just a few teaspoons for the first few feedings. Offer fish as a single ingredient dish first, and then blend it with other foods your baby is already used to eating. Fish with puréed or mashed vegetables such or potatoes (aloo), peas (matar), carrot (gajar) are good combinations. You can also mix it with rice, lentils (dal) or other cereals.
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Wait for four to five days before introducing any other new food. That way you can monitor your baby for any allergic reaction to fish. When introducing an allergenic food, it's a good idea to give it to your baby at home (in the morning), rather than at daycare, restaurant or when you're out of town.
Look out for any signs of an allergic reaction when you introduce fish in your baby's diet.
What type of fish should I offer when I'm weaning my baby?
You could begin with white flesh fish. Pomfret (pamplet/chandava), trout, cod (gobro/panna ) or sole (repti or morrul) are popular choices.
While tuna (chura) is a good source of Omega 3 fatty acids, it's best to offer limited amounts. If you have canned tuna, choose the light variety. Canned albacore tuna contains higher levels of mercury.
When introducing shellfish, start with one that's easy to purée, such as crab or lobster. Wait until your baby is able to chew other finger foods before offering pieces of shrimp and other shellfish that are harder to purée.
Always buy fresh fish from a reliable shop or fish market. The gills should be red, and the skin should be clean and firm when you press it.
What types of fish should I avoid?
There are some types of fish that your baby shouldn't eat.
- Large predator fish such as shark, swordfish and marlin as they have higher levels of mercury in them. This may affect your baby’s developing nervous system.
- Any kind of raw or partially cooked fish, or fish in a cold marinade. These may contain bacteria and viruses that a healthy adult could tolerate but would make a baby or young child seriously ill.
- Canned fish in brine. These contain a very high level of salt.
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However, keep in mind that for most types of seafood, the nutritional benefits far outweigh the risks.
It's a good idea to speak to your doctor as well. She can recommend you to a dietitian who can help you decide which fish to avoid and how to choose the right portion size for your child.
How will I know if my child is allergic to fish?
Some of the common symptoms of allergies include:
- facial swelling (including the tongue and lips)
- skin rash
- wheezing
- tummy pain
- abdominal cramping
- vomiting
- diarrhoea
It is also possible for a baby with an allergic reaction to begin crying inconsolably, even before the symptoms appear.
If your baby shows any of these signs – mild or severe, or has trouble breathing right after eating a new food, take him to your doctor, immediately.
Read this article in Hindi: बच्चों को मछली खिलाना कब और कैसे शुरु करना चाहिए?
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Delicious first foods
Try these simple and easy recipes for your baby!
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