Packed with heart-healthy fats, energizing carbohydrates, and fiber, your little one will love this banana chia seed pudding. Best of all, it’s easy to make. Whether you’ve opted for purees or baby-led weaning, chia seed pudding is a nutritious snack to have on hand. Your baby will gobble it up!

ARE CHIA SEEDS HEALTHY FOR BABIES?

Short answer—yes. Chia seeds are remarkably healthy. Packed with nutritional benefits for the whole body, these tiny seeds are an incredible source of omega-3 fatty acids. Chia seeds contain essential nutrients to support your baby’s blood flow, cell growth, eyesight, and nervous system. Chia seeds are also a complete source of protein. And, they’re loaded with soluble fiber. In terms of vitamins and minerals, this superfood contains noteworthy levels of vitamins and minerals. Think: vitamin K (for healthy blood), iron, magnesium, vitamin B3 (for energy and fat metabolism), calcium (for healthy bones), and zinc (for immune function).

When can My baby eat chia seeds?

You can introduce chis seeds as soon as your baby is ready to start solids. Typically, this is around six months old. That said, please consult your pediatrician or feeding therapist—in case your baby has difficulty swallowing or hasn’t met all signs of developmental readiness. While not a common allergen, it’s best to introduce chia seeds before your baby turns one.

How can I prepare chia seed pudding for My baby?

In terms of preparation, chia seeds don’t need to be washed beforehand. Simply grind chia seeds in a blender or soak them for at least 30 minutes before serving. The gelatinous seeds expand upon contact with liquid, including saliva. If possible, purchase organic chia seeds. Conventional (non-organic chia) is frequently sprayed with pesticides, fungicides, and chemical fertilizers. All of these soak into the seed and cannot be washed off.

6-12 months old: Make chia seed pudding (recipe below), toss chia seeds into a smoothie, or create a chia seed gel to add to other foods. To make the gel, start by combining two tablespoons of chia seeds and 2/3 cup of breast milk or formula. Otherwise, chia seeds can be combined with unsweetened milk, such as organic cow’s milk or a dairy-free alternative. My favorite is hemp milk as it contain the most protein and fat, which babies need. Let the seeds sit in the liquid until a gel forms. About 20-30 minutes. From there, mix a spoonful or two of the gel into foods like oatmeal, yogurt, or pureed vegetables.

As with all new foods, when you’re ready to introduce chia seeds, start by serving a small quantity of the pre-soaked seeds for the first couple of times and watch closely. If there are no adverse reactions, gradually increase the amount served over future mealtimes.