If you have a young child, you may worry about when to introduce new foods into her diet. A well-balanced and nutritious meal plan through the toddler years provides adequate nutrient intake to support growth and development. Under the right conditions, tuna fish is a healthy and nutrient-dense food that should be included in your toddler's diet.
When to Offer
A baby as young as 6 months of age can eat tuna fish, according to Frank Greer, pediatrician and previous chairman of the American Academy of Pediatrics. Look for tuna fish in cans for an inexpensive way to serve tuna to your toddler, or purchase tuna fillets at the supermarket and cook them yourself before offering them to your child.
Portion Sizes
Offer your toddler 3 oz. of tuna fish twice per week, recommends the Florida Department of Health. Opt for the canned light version, which is lower in mercury than white or albacore varieties. You don't have to give your toddler an entire 3 oz. portion all at one time if he won't eat that much. Give him smaller portions more often to reap the same health benefits. Adding tuna to pasta or soup is a good way to get a picky eater to give it a try.
Health Benefits
Tuna fish is a good source of protein, which your toddler needs to maintain healthy muscles, skin, hair and nails. It also plays a role in the production of hormones and keeps blood healthy. Tuna fish is also a good way to increase your toddler's intake of vitamin D, which is a nutrient that supports healthy bones and may also help prevent cancer and diabetes, according to the National Fisheries Institute. Selenium, which is important for a strong immune system is also found in tuna fish. Fish is one of the best sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for toddlers because they help her brain and eyes develop. Studies have shown that children given omega-3 supplements scored higher on reading and spelling scores in school, reports Dr. William Sears. Offering tuna fish during the toddler years is a good way to set the groundwork for this.
Precautions
While tuna is low in mercury, giving your toddler more than the recommended weekly amount could result in a toxic amount in her body. In addition, some fish contain PCBs, which are another type of contaminant. Too much of these substances could result in learning and behavioral problems, according to Heidi Murkoff, author of the "What to Expect" series of books. If your toddler is still mastering the art of chewing, be sure to mash or finely chop tuna fish to prevent choking. Always check for bones for the same reason. Don't introduce tuna at the same time as any other new foods so that you can watch for signs of a food allergy. If your child has other food allergies, talk with her doctor before giving her tuna fish. Never give your toddler raw tuna because it increases her risk of contracting a food borne illness.
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