flax seeds
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When can babies have flax seeds?
Flaxseeds may be introduced as soon as your baby is ready to start solids, which is generally around 6 months of age. Babies can consume finely powdered seeds from the age of six months. You can add powdered flaxseeds to puree, mash, porridge, and soup. You can also use flaxseeds to make different baby food preparations, such as flaxseed bread with guacamole
Are flax seeds healthyfor babies?
Flax seeds are nutritional powerhouses. Packed with healthful natural fats. Nutritionally, flaxseeds are one of the best sources of alpha linoleic acid, an omega-3-fatty acid that supports heart and brain health and they are packed with protein and essential nutrients, including B-vitamins, copper, iron, selenium, and zinc. Flaxseeds also contain lignans (a type of antioxidant that helps build the immune system) and fibers that can help regulate bowel movements and relieve constipation
How to prepare flaxseeds for your baby!
Every baby develops on their own timeline. The preparation suggestions below are for informational purposes only and are not a substitute for professional, one-on-one advice from your pediatric medical or health professional, nutritionist or dietitian, or expert in pediatric feeding and eating. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read or seen here.
6 to 12 months old: Sprinkle or mix lightly toasted, ground flaxseeds (or purchase flaxseed meal) on top of soft foods like mashed vegetables or warm cereal. You can also pour a small amount of flaxseed oil in food or sprinkle flaxseed meal on grains like amaranth, farro, or quinoa. Flaxseed is a natural laxative, so don’t overdo it.
12 to 18 months old: Mix small amounts of flaxseed oil or ground flaxseed into soft foods or try adding to smoothies.
18 to 24 months old: Add small amounts of ground flaxseed or flaxseed oil into a variety of foods for added nutrition. At this age, toddlers are sure to love energy balls and ground flax can easily be added to any recipe for them.
It's a fact!
Flax is one of the oldest crops known to man, having been cultivated since the dawn of civilization. To study the history of flax takes one on a journey from ancient Egypt to the invention of the cotton gin in the United States. In Egypt, mummies were wrapped in cloth made from flax. The process of harvesting flax has been recorded over the centuries in hieroglyphics, ancient texts, and art. Flax plants mature into tall, tender stems about three feet high and bloom with a pale blue flower. The fruit is a small, round capsule that contains flax seeds. Once the flax stems are harvested, they are bundled for drying, at which point the seed capsules are removed and dried. Flax seeds are small, shiny, brown (sometimes golden), and shaped like a teardrop.