babyledweaningfoods.com
Mix 1 to 2 tablespoons of chia seeds with at least 100 ml of breast milk, formula, or full-fat yoghurt and allow to soak for at least 20 minutes or overnight until thick and pudding-like. Serve the chia pudding in a small bowl and allow your baby to scoop with their hands or offer it on a pre-loaded spoon. You can mix in mashed banana or finely grated apple for added flavour and nutrients.
Continue to prepare chia pudding with the same ratio of seeds to liquid, ensuring a thick, spoonable consistency. Encourage your baby to practise scooping with a pre-loaded spoon or their hands, as this helps develop fine motor skills. You can also serve chia pudding as a topping for pancakes or mix it with stewed fruit for variety.
At this age, your toddler can enjoy chia pudding in a bowl with a spoon, practising self-feeding with utensils. You can add a variety of toppings such as fresh berries, nut or seed butters, or chopped soft fruit to make it more interesting. Chia pudding also works well layered with yoghurt or porridge for a nutritious breakfast or snack.
Chia seeds are an excellent source of plant-based omega-3 fatty acids, which support brain and eye development in babies. They also provide iron, an essential nutrient for healthy growth and cognitive development, as well as fibre, calcium, and magnesium. The combination of healthy fats and iron makes chia pudding a nutrient-dense option for growing babies.
Chia seeds are not a common allergen and are generally well tolerated by babies. While allergic reactions to chia are rare, introduce chia pudding as you would any new food and watch for signs of an allergic reaction such as hives, swelling, or digestive upset.
Always supervise meals. Adjust textures to your baby's stage. Medical questions belong with your health professional. Source: babyledweaningfoods.com/foods/chia-pudding