Nutmeg

Nutmeg can season your baby's food in very small amounts once baby is about 6 months old and ready for solids. This spice is the seed inside the fruit of a tropical tree native to the Maluku islands in Southeast Asia. The bright red casing around the seed is dried separately and becomes the spice mace. Both flavor sweet and savory dishes.

Nutmeg is not a tree nut, and the word in its name should not be confused with coconut. Coconut is a different food.

The spice gives small amounts of vitamins, minerals and helpful plant compounds. Researchers have looked at its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and antioxidant effects.

When adding it straight to your baby's plate, use a pinch only. More than that raises the risk of illness. Nutmeg contains a compound called myristicin, which in excess can cause nervous system and breathing symptoms. Accidental overdosing in normal cooking is extremely rare.

For a fresher taste, buy whole seeds and grate only what you need. Keep the rest in an airtight container.

Nutmeg is also sold ready ground. Never hand a whole nutmeg to a baby.

The whole seed is a small, hard ball, which makes it a choking risk. Finely ground nutmeg carries a low risk.

Stay within arm's reach of your baby during meals.

Nutmeg allergy is rare but has been reported. If your child has other allergies, read the label on every spice blend. Blends that include nutmeg can also hold common allergens, for example tree nuts or sesame.

Breathing in the powder irritates the nose and can cause sneezing and coughing. That is an irritant effect and may not be an allergy. Nutmeg can also cause a rash on contact with the skin.

A rash around the mouth after spiced food is common in babies. It is usually skin irritation, rarely a true allergy. Spice can also worsen diaper rash. For babies with sensitive skin, ask the doctor whether a light coat of barrier cream on the face and diaper area before meals makes sense.

Offer only a tiny amount at the first few meals.