Although Brussels sprouts are a delicious and nutritious green leafy vegetable, they are notorious for their tendency to cause gas and discomfort when we eat them. Does this apply to your baby as well? Let’s talk about it!
Babies can eat Brussels sprouts as long as they are the appropriate texture for the baby’s age. However, Brussels sprouts may cause gas, which is completely normal as long as your baby is still eating well and is not constipated.
Let’s discuss the safety information of feeding your baby Brussels sprouts and the potential to cause gas. Read on to learn more!
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Can Babies Eat Brussels Sprouts?
Your baby can eat Brussels sprouts starting at six months old, as long as they are prepared in the appropriate texture for the baby’s age.
A six-month-old baby should receive vegetables that are pureed and smooth with a thin and watery consistency (source: University of Illinois).
Once your baby reaches the seven- or eight-month age range, they can begin to have thicker purees and mashed fruits and vegetables. When they get to the eight- to twelve-month range, babies can have small bite-sized pieces of cooked Brussels sprouts that are soft and chopped up well.
However, it is important to note that the ages mentioned are general guidelines and may be different for each individual baby.
Can Babies Eat Pureed Brussels Sprouts?
Babies younger than eight months should be fed pureed Brussels sprouts. Cooked Brussels sprouts can be chopped up and blended until smooth. A small amount of formula or breast milk can be added to make the puree a bit smoother.
Start with a thin and watery puree at six months old, and then progress to a thicker puree, like mashed potato texture, once your baby is seven and eight months old.
Do Brussels Sprouts Cause Gas in Babies?
Brussels sprouts are high in fiber and gas-forming compounds since they are cruciferous vegetables, along with broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage.
It is understandable that you are worried about giving your baby foods that will potentially cause them discomfort. Gassiness may make your baby squirm a lot or have difficulty sleeping.
While vegetables such as Brussels sprouts can increase gas in your baby, these foods should not necessarily be avoided because they are packed full of health benefits, such as fiber, vitamins, and minerals. To avoid gas and discomfort, ensure your baby eats slowly and sits upright so their food settles more easily.
Recognize that gas can be very normal for a baby and is not an area of concern unless your baby is not gaining weight, does not want to eat, is constipated, or has an allergic reaction (source: RMC Health System).
Are Brussels Sprouts Good or Bad for Babies?
Cruciferous vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts, are especially rich in essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin K and folate (source: Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Eat Right).
Vitamin K is crucial for babies as it helps promote healthy blood clotting and plays a role in bone metabolism (source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC]).
Additionally, folate is needed for healthy red blood cell formation and also for cell growth and functioning (source: Mayo Clinic). Brussels sprouts are also high in dietary fiber, which supports healthy digestion and bowel movements for your baby.
In conclusion, I hope you found this article helpful in breaking down the benefits of Brussels sprouts and how your baby can enjoy them without side effects.
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