Fish off limits?

[Jacksmom77]

I'm clueless when it comes to this...is fish off limits for babies because of the mercury? I'm not a big fish eater, but I know it has alot of good fats in it...if there are fish my lo can eat - which ones do you all recommend? Thanks!

[NKmommy]

I was always told that white fish is a great food for toddlers.  I would think that you would want to limit it to maybe a couple times a week, and you might want to avoid fish that is higher in mercury, like tilefish, swordfish, or shark.  Hope that helps! 

[Lªuren]

I don't like fish AT ALL 
But I have given DS cod recently (about 7months), I bought stuff that had no bones or skin on it and got DH to do the taste test after I had cooked it.

In some of my cookery books they suggest plaice, salmon, etc However , you will find different book, webites, people will advise you different things, if in ANY doubt speak to a health care professional.

You can find more info here:
http://www.wholesomebabyfood.com/tip16April.htm
http://www.babycenter.com/refcap/baby/babyfeeding/9195.html   - foods to avoid
http://www.drgreene.com/21_1485.html

Shellfish should be avoided until your LO is over 12months at least.

Mercury levels in fish has been and will remain a large health concern for women who are considering getting pregnant, who are currently pregnant, who are breastfeeding and also for infants and young children. It is very important that those falling into the above groups do not consume fish with high levels of mercury!! It has been found that fish species such as swordfish, king mackerel, shark and tilefish contain the highest amounts of mercury. Mercury can do severe damage to developing nervous systems should consumption of mercury tainted fish be commonplace. Salmon, contrary to popular belief, has lower levels of mercury than one typically thinks as does tuna. Cold water fish have lower levels of mercury and also contain higher levels of Omega 3's.


Fish Purée (Basic)

1 cup cooked boneless white fish -
1/4 c or plain water

Place fish in blender or food processor and slowly add liquid while puréeing until a smooth consistency is created.  Add as much liquid as needed to make a consistency appropriate for your baby!


Fish Dinner

1 filet of any white fish such as cod, haddock etc..(unbreaded and cooked)
1/8 c or whole milk
1 tbsp melted butter
1/2 tsp salt
1/8 cup mashed peas
1/8 c mashed carrots
1/8 c mashed potatoes

Combine all ingredients and blend/puree until creamy - Serve warm


Fact: Although people can be allergic to any kind of food, most food allergies are caused by tree nuts, peanuts, cow's milk, eggs, soy, fish and shellfish.   http://www.wholesomebabyfood.com/allergy.htm

HTH's

[*Natasha*]

I am also not a big fish lover but i started DD on tuna and salmon at 6months with no problems. We do have fish occasionally as DH likes it and have given DD some then and she doesn't mind it.
Anyway Tuna is a good one to start and maybe salmon as well.

[Jacksmom77]

Thanks to all of you for the replies...Calums Mom - the websites are VERY helpful. I think I'll stick with tuna/salmon & maybe cod - then wait a little bit & see how he does.

Thanks!