Tuna is a type of fish that is quite popular because it has many health benefits, including for the growth and development of babies. In order for the benefits of tuna for babies to be optimal, Mothers also need to pay attention to several things before serving it.
Just like other types of fish, you can process tuna as a complementary food menu. Mothers can already introduce this fish to your little one at the beginning of the complementary feeding period or when the little one is 6 months old. You can get tuna in the market in the form of whole and fresh or in canned form.
Benefits of Tuna for Babies
Tuna has a variety of nutrients needed by the body, such as protein, B vitamins, vitamin D, calcium, phosphorus, potassium, zinc, selenium, and choline. In addition, this fish is also a source of omega-3 fatty acids.
Seeing the abundance of these nutrients, it's a shame if you miss giving tuna to your little one. nowHere are the benefits of tuna for babies:
1. Supports brain development
Tuna is rich in omega-3 fatty acids. These nutrients have a major role in supporting the neurodevelopment of the baby's brain. With sufficient intake of this, your little one will grow up to be a smart child who has a high level of concentration and memory.
2. Increase body metabolism
In addition to omega-3 fatty acids, tuna is also rich in B vitamins. These vitamins can increase your little one's metabolic rate, so that fat burning in the body to produce energy can take place more quickly.
In addition, B vitamins are also known to reduce the risk of heart disease and cancer.
3. Prevent anemia
Just like adults, babies can also experience anemia. Anemia in infants should not be taken lightly because it can inhibit their growth and development, Bun. So that this condition does not happen to your little one, you can give him tuna.
The content of B vitamins and iron in this fish can support the formation of red blood cells and hemoglobin which are needed to circulate oxygen throughout the little one's body and prevent anemia.
4. Supports the growth of bones and teeth
Eating a variety of foods to support the growth of bones and teeth during the growth period of your little one is an important thing that should not be missed. One of the foods that you can choose is tuna.
This red-fleshed fish contains vitamin D and calcium which play a role in forming strong bones and teeth. Adequate intake of these two nutrients will prevent your little one from experiencing bone growth disorders or rickets, osteoporosis, heart disease, and diabetes.
Pay attention to this before giving tuna to babies
Although the benefits of tuna for babies are many, you still need to pay attention to the type of tuna that will be given to your little one and the portion.
You should avoid giving your little one white tuna, because this type of tuna contains a lot of mercury. Choose tuna that has less mercury, such as skipjack, yellowfin, and tuna. Canned tuna also usually contains small tuna that is low in mercury.
Low-mercury tuna is still relatively safe for babies to consume as much as 2-3 servings a week. While high-mercury tuna can only be consumed a maximum of 1 serving or about 70 grams per week.
The dangers of mercury should not be underestimated, you know, Bun. Eating too often high-mercury fish can interfere with brain and body health, such as forgetfulness, emotional instability, and kidney damage.
When serving tuna for the first time to a baby, pay attention to the reaction, yes, Bun. If your little one shows allergy symptoms, such as itching, rash, swelling, vomiting, or diarrhea, immediately take him to the doctor for proper treatment.
