Health
Olive Oil for Babies: When to Start and How Much to Give Them
Contents
Albanian grandmothers knew it without reading studies: a drop of olive oil in the child's soup. Today pediatricians confirm that practice, with some clarifications about age and quantity.
When you can start it
Extra virgin olive oil enters the baby's menu from the beginning of complementary food, around the sixth month. Add half a teaspoon to vegetable puree or soup, after cooking, so that the aroma remains mild.
From the first year to the age of three, the amount is gradually increased to one to two teaspoons per day, divided between meals.
Why exactly olive oil?
A child's brain is built with fat. Oleic acid and vitamin E help the development of the nervous system and the absorption of vitamins A, D, E and K from other foods. The fat composition of olive oil is closer to that of breast milk than any other vegetable fat, which is why infant formulas often include it.
Practical benefits that parents notice
- More regular digestion and less constipation
- Simple foods taste better and the child accepts them more easily
- Softer skin, especially in winter
Amount according to age
- 6-12 months: half to one teaspoon per day
- 1-3 years: one to two teaspoons
- 4-10 years: two to three teaspoons, included in cooking and salads
Always consult the pediatrician about your child's case, especially if he has allergies or digestive problems.
Quality matters more in children
The small organism processes chemical waste more slowly. A certified organic, pesticide-free and adulterant-free oil reduces this burden. Shkrela oil is produced from hand-picked olives and processed within 24 hours, without solvents and without heat.
For cooking ideas that kids love, see Everyday Albanian Recipes.
Frequently asked questions
At what age can a child take olive oil?
From the sixth month, together with the beginning of complementary foods.
Is olive oil given to the child on an empty stomach?
No. In small children, it is given mixed with food, never separately.
Does it cause constipation or relieve it?
It makes it easier. Olive oil helps bowel movement, so it is also used as a mild natural solution.
Contact us to find out which bottle is suitable for family consumption.
