Fennel seeds come from the fennel plant (Foeniculum vulgare), an aromatic herb from the same botanical family as carrots. Fennel seeds for babies could be beneficial in promoting digestion, fighting infections, and improving overall health. Fennel seeds are known for their culinary and therapeutic benefits. The seeds have been used to treat various illnesses affecting the reproductive, digestive, and respiratory systems for ages. This post discusses the safety and potential health benefits of fennel seeds for babies. We also provide recipes to prepare dishes with fennel seeds for the baby.
When Can Babies Consume Fennel Seeds?
There is no specific age for the introduction of fennel seeds. Vegetables related to fennel, such as carrots, can be introduced at the age of six months (1). You may introduce fennel seeds as a flavoring substance to six-month-olds, who consume various other solids. You may give a teaspoon or two of fennel water to babies. It will help the infant adjust to fennel’s taste and digestibility. Gradually, add fennel powder to different recipes, such as porridge, cereals, soups, and stews. Fennel powder enhances a meal’s flavor. You may also occasionally feed fennel tea to babies. Young babies can consume a tablespoon of fennel tea after or before meals. Older babies and toddlers may be able to consume half a cup of fennel tea spread across multiple servings in a day. Giving fennel to babies is safe as long as the quantity is controlled. Consult a pediatrician to know the quantity of fennel tea you can give to your baby.
Nutritional Value Of Fennel Seeds
Besides adding flavor and aroma to a meal, fennel seeds can also offer extensive nutrients such as vitamins A, C, B6, niacin ,riboflavin, thiamine, zinc, sodium, phosphorus, proteins, and phytochemicals. One teaspoon (2g) of whole fennel seeds can provide the following nutrients to your infant (2) (3). Sources: U.S. Department of Agriculture and World Health Organization
Possible Uses Of Fennel Seeds For Babies
Fennel seeds contain bioactive compounds, which may offer some long-term health benefits (4). Below are some notable benefits of fennel seeds for babies. Consult a pediatrician before using fennel seeds for any therapeutic or medicinal purposes.
Precautions To Take When Feeding Fennel Seeds To Babies
Here are some tips to follow while feeding fennel to babies and toddlers.
Buy organic fennel seeds and fennel powder from a reputed store.
Do not feed whole fennel seeds to babies as they can be a choking hazard. Instead, use crushed fennel seeds in purees and smoothies
If the baby shows sensitivity or intolerance after ingesting fennel in any form, discontinue feeding it.
Fennel seed allergy is rare but possible. The allergy symptoms include hives, swelling of the mouth, itching, abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea. These symptoms may appear immediately after ingesting or touching fennel. Hence start with a small quantity and wait for a couple of days to check any signs of allergies.
If the baby has a family history of allergies to certain pollens and foods (parsley, carrot, celery, parsnip, etc.) belonging to the Apiaceae family (13), consult a doctor before introducing fennel.
Fennel seed can interact with several medicines, such as antibiotics (14). Consult a pediatrician about fennel seed use if your baby is on any medications.
While preparing fennel water or tea, take precaution to boil on a low flame and gradually to avoid evaporation of antioxidants.
Fennel Seed Recipes For Babies
Here are some easy-to-consume fennel seed recipes for babies and toddlers.
1. Fennel water
You will need:
1 cup clean drinking water 1tsp fennel seeds
How to:
2. Fennel tea
You will need:
1 cup water 1tsp fennel seeds (crushed)
How to: For toddlers, you can serve fennel seed powder by adding it to milk and other dairy products, such as yogurt.
