Why fish is so important in the diet of children

Although traditionally the fish has been introduced into the baby's diet quite late, it is a very important pillar of the Mediterranean diet, as nutritious or more than meat , and much easier to eat, always being careful with thorns. In Guiainfantil.com we tell you why fish is so important in childr

Although traditionally the fish has been introduced into the baby's diet quite late, it is a very important pillar of the Mediterranean diet, as nutritious or more than meat , and much easier to eat, always being careful with thorns.

In Guiainfantil.com we tell you why fish is so important in children's diet and what kind of fish is best suited for children.

The importance of fish in children's diet

It is now known that not necessarily to postpone its introduction in the Mediterranean diet allergies or intolerances are prevented, but rather on the contrary, so the fish can be introduced at the beginning of the complementary feeding without problem, except in cases in which the specialist recommends it, of course.

In general, the only rule that applies in the case of fish is the same as in other foods, you must let a few days pass between the introduction of one type of fish and another to verify that the baby tolerates it without problems. The early introduction of fish into the child's diet usually ensures its acceptance, which is another advantage to be taken into account. It is much better that the child learns to eat and accept all foods without camouflaging them or hiding them in their food than resorting to these tricks, since that way they differentiate flavors and eat consciously, something ideal to establish their eating habits.

Types of fish suitable for children

First of all, we must distinguish two types of fish, white and blue. There is no rule that requires to start with one or the other, although usually the target is usually introduced first:

- White fish are hake, sole, whiting, grouper, or fresh cod, and have more flavor soft than blue fish. In addition, white fish has less fat, although this also means that it has less essential fatty acids, essential for nutrition.

- Blue fish are for example anchovies, sardines, tuna and bonito, salmon or mackerel ...

Nutritionally, fish is one of the healthiest foods for children, it is rich in protein high biological value, in minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, iodine, iron, and in vitamin D and some of group B. Blue fish also contains other liposoluble vitamins, as well as the famous Omega 3 acids, which help prevent possible heart problems.

In addition, the smallest fish, since they are consumed with their own spine, are a very important source of calcium, especially in the case of children who do not take enough milk.

The best ways to cook fish, to get the most out of its nutrients are baking and grilling. Steam also retains all its nutrients, although it is not usually too attractive, especially for the little ones, and fried and / or fried we add extra fat that is not necessary, since the fish is very complete nutritionally without the need for additives.