Omega-3 fatty acids are an important part of a baby's healthy diet because they contribute to brain and eye development, according to Dr. Sears. Many obstetricians are prescribing these fatty acids to pregnant mothers to safeguard a baby's health as she grows. The most important omega-3 fatty acid is DHA, which is responsible for maintaining proper brain function, including message transmission and learning new things. Several baby-friendly foods are available to incorporate omega-3 fatty acids into a baby's diet.
Breast Milk
For an infant, his mother's milk is the best source of DHA. A mother who nurses her infant is ensuring adequate omega-3 intake through her breast milk. She can increase this by eating foods that contain DHA, thus having more to give to her baby when he nurses. According to Dr. Sears, a baby's brain triples in size in his first year of life, so providing plenty of breast milk means he is getting enough DHA to support this rapid growth. Another important reason for breastfeeding mothers to include DHA in their diets is because a lack of it can result in postpartum depression, a condition that can affect how much DHA is transferred to a baby though the breast milk, reports 007 Breasts.
Fish
For babies older than 6 months old who are transitioning to finger foods, fish is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids. Dr. Sears recommends two servings per week for adequate omega-3 consumption. Fish who live in cold water are better sources of these fatty acids and good choices include tuna, salmon and sardines. These types of fish can be cooked and flaked and served plain or mixed into pasta sauces or soups. Babies should not be given too much fish and should avoid certain types due to mercury content. Shark, swordfish and marlin are species to skip and a baby should never eat raw fish due to the danger of food poisoning.
Flaxseed
Flaxseed is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which protects heart health and digestion in addition to its brain benefits, according to MayoClinic.com. Ground flaxseed is the best way to introduce it into a baby's diet and it can be added to yogurt, cereal, pureed fruits and vegetables or baked goods. Wholesome Baby Food advises parents not to give a baby too much flaxseed due to its laxative effects. However, it is a good way to treat constipation in a baby. Flaxseed has a slightly nutty flavor that many babies enjoy, so incorporating it into the diet will be relatively easy.
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