The benefits of blackberries for babies are numerous since it is a rich source of vitamin C and antioxidants. However, many parents do not include them in their baby’s diet because they fear it could be a choking hazard or cause food allergies. Most pediatricians suggest introducing babies to blackberries after they have learned to chew properly. In most cases, these fruits do not cause any allergies; however, if you are worried, it is best to consult your child’s doctor. Read this post to obtain some relevant information on blackberries and understand whether they are safe for babies or not.
About Blackberries
The soft and delicate blackberry mostly grows on trailing vines and thorny bushes. Blackberries usually grow as drupelets (a cluster of fruits), quite like a bunch of grapes. The seeds inside the drupelets possess high nutritional value. Minerals, vitamins, dietary fibers and antioxidants are just some of the nutrients in blackberries. The anthocyanins offer the glossy and dark coloration to blackberries. The powerful phytochemicals in blackberries also protect your baby from diseases like dementia and Alzheimer’s disease (1).
When Can My Baby Eat Blackberries?
As soon as your baby begins to wean and have solid food, you can gradually introduce blackberries into their daily diet. Usually, the best time to include blackberry in your child’s diet is when she’s around four to six months old. At that age, you can start including solid foods and pureed berries. Remember that you need to blend it well and strain, so that your baby can swallow it easily. However, if your baby suffers from a food allergy or chronic eczema, consult the pediatrician before including blackberries in her diet (2).
Goodness of Blackberries For Babies
A half cup serving of blackberries supplies almost 7 mg of Vitamin C, 0.03 mg of riboflavin, 0.03 mg of thiamine, and 2 gm of dietary fiber. Blackberries keep your baby’s digestive tract clean and enhance her skin health. The anti-oxidants present in blackberries minimize the risk of cancer. The high fiber content in blackberries regulates your baby’s bowel movement and reduces the risk of constipation or indigestion. The mineral calcium and magnesium present in blackberry helps in the healthy bone development of your little one.
Health Benefits Of Blackberries
Here are some of the noticeable benefits of blackberries for your baby (3) (4):
1. Antioxidant Properties:
Some of the antioxidants present in blackberries include flavonoids, phenolic acids, and flavonols. This antioxidant-rich fruit protects your baby’s body from harmful oxidative damage. The anti-oxidants rich fruit protects your baby’s body from harmful oxidative damage.
2. Prevents Cancer:
The nutritious fruit reduces the risk of colon cancer, lung cancer, and esophageal cancer. Blackberries contain micronutrients, which minimize the proliferation of malignant cells in your baby’s body.
3. Improves Digestive Health:
Blackberries serve as a rich source of soluble and insoluble fibers, which promote the optimum functioning of your baby’s digestive system. Dietary fibers in blackberries add bulk to your baby’s stool and promote regular bowel movements. Dietary fibers in blackberries add bulk to your baby’ stool and promote regular bowel movements.
4. Cures Anemia:
Blackberry fruit and juice help cure iron-deficiency anemia by improving the body’s iron absorption.
5. Immunity Booster:
The healthy plant vitamins and minerals help your baby’s body fight against infectious diseases and germs.
Recommendations
The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests that breastfeeding should be the sole source of nutrition for your newborn baby. When your baby reaches the age of six months, you can slowly introduce solid foods in her menu. As babies prefer sweet flavors, the introduction of blackberries never gives a sweet tooth to your little one.
Allergy Risks
Though berries rarely cause food allergies, researchers conclude that it is best to include blackberries after your baby begins to eat traditional solid foods like baby cereal, boiled vegetables, and pureed meat. Consult your medical practitioner, if your baby:
Has severe to moderate eczema and has to undergo a medical skin treatment plan.
Was previously diagnosed with any food allergies
Had an immediate allergic reaction after eating certain foods
Some common signs of food allergy include skin rash, vomiting, diarrhea, wheezing, facial swelling, and abdominal cramp. If you notice any of the signs, after your baby eats blackberries, contact the medical consultant immediately.
Other Reactions
The recommended dosage of blackberry for your six-month-old baby is around 1–2 cups in pureed form. However, excess intake of blackberries can lead to some adverse conditions like:
Nausea Stomach Upset Dark color of urine
How To Serve Blackberries To Babies?
Once your little one reaches the age of six months, and she can safely eat solid foods, you can serve her pureed form of blackberries. For babies above eight months, you can also consider offering fingertip-sized pieces of blackberries (2).
Can My Baby Have Blackberry Puree?
You can include blackberry puree in your baby’s diet, whose age lies around six months. When you prepare homemade blackberry puree for a baby, it should not contain solid pieces. As your baby cannot chew their food properly, it is better to feed them the pureed form of the berry. Remove all the seeds, as it can elevate your baby’s risk of choking when they find it difficult to swallow them.
Blackberry Recipes For Babies
Blackberry And Apple Puree:
You Will Need:
1 cup organic blackberries 2 organic apples chopped into small pieces 1/2 cup water or formula milk
How To:
