Fish Oil for Babies

Poached salmon might sound to you like a weird choice for baby food, but perhaps you should change your mind. Fish oil --- in food or supplement form --- is a vital addition to your baby's diet and may enhance numerous areas of his health, including the immune system and brain function, says pediatrician Dr. Robert Sears.

Fish Oil Benefits

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential nutrients found in seafood and are good for nearly every organ of a child's body, from the skin to the eyes to the brain, says pediatrician and father of eight, Dr. William Sears. Omega-3's can make your baby smarter, improve vision, enhance immunity, and may even prevent eczema, according to Dr. Sears.

Alternative Food Sources

Flaxseed, walnuts and canola oil are all good sources of the fatty acid ALA, but do not provide the health benefits of DHA and EPA, the essential fatty acids found in fish oils. Some foods, such as milk or yogurts, are now fortified with omega-3s, reports BabyCenter. Breast milk and fortified formulas also provide omega-3 fats.

Recommended DHA Intake

Dr. WIlliam Sears recommends that infants get about 300 milligrams of DHA per day, most of which they can get from breast milk or DHA-fortified formula fortified. When your baby begins eating solids, you should give her approximately 2 ounces of wild salmon weekly. Once your baby is only eating solids, increase her intake of wild salmon to 6 or 7 ounces weekly. If your child refuses to eat that much, says Dr. Sears, you should consider a supplement.

Supplements

It's best if children get their nutrients from food. However, most children are deficient in the beneficial omega-3 fats because they don't eat enough fish and eggs, which are the main dietary sources, says pediatrician Dr. Robert Sears. You should give your child fish oil supplements --- liquids for toddlers over age 1 and chewables or capsules for older children --- that have been tested and proved to be mercury-free. If you and your children are vegetarians, you can give use an algae-derived DHA supplement. Before you give your baby any supplements you should consult with your physician.

Safe Fish

Fish contain good fats, making them a valuable part of a wholesome diet. Unfortunately, many fish also contain environmental pollutants, including pesticides and mercury. You should feed your children wild Alaskan or canned salmon and other saltwater fish, according to the book "Healthy Child, Whole Child." You should avoid serving your children swordfish, king mackerel, tilefish and shark, and restrict tuna to no more than 4 to 6 ounces each week.