10th Nov 2018
Healthy Finger Foods for Kids
One of the most challenging tasks mothers all over the world face is providing healthy foods that support the growth & development of their kids.
10 Nov 2018
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Most mothers do not like to compromise when it comes to child nutrition. It is always best to plan a balanced meal to provide children with optimum nourishment. Here is a list of some of the healthiest foods for all our fussy little eaters according to their age groups.
AGE GROUP: 0-6 MONTHS
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At this age, babies should be exclusively breastfed. Breastfeeding is ideal for newborns, as it contains all the required nutrients for healthy development.
AGE GROUP: 6-9 MONTH
Here are some foods to be introduced when your child turns six months old:
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Mashed foods are energy-dense foods which provide the right amount of calories, vitamins, & minerals. It can be in the form of mashed banana, rice & masoor dal pureed porridges
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Mix vegetable khichdi (rice + green moong dal + bottle gourd/ lauki + ridge gourd/ turai + water) is easy on the tummy & is a wholesome meal for the infant.
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Whole wheat halwa is an excellent source of insoluble fibers. Also, mashed fruits & powdered nuts can be incorporated in meals to make it a power packed healthy meal. Palak dal rice/palak paneer rice is an excellent source of vitamins & serves as a good source of protein.
AGE GROUP: 9-12 MONTHS
Here are some foods to feed your baby who is just three months away from his/her first birthday!
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Boiled eggs/paneer have complex amino acid structures & are rich in B vitamins, proteins & good fats (lecithin).
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Khichdi with vegetables is a nutritious dish. It can be accompanied by a bowl of curd which provides calcium & aids in digestion.
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Yogurt, being a pro-biotic, is good for the baby's gut & enhances the good bacteria that eases the digestion of the food.
AGE GROUP: 1 YEAR ONWARDS
Here are the top five foods to give your child when he/she turns one year old:
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Daliya Khichdi is a good source of fibre & magnesium which keeps the child feeling full & satisfied.
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Cheese vegetable s&wiches can be made nutritious by using whole wheat/multigrain/rye bread, which provide essential fatty acids for the child. Cheese, on the other h&, is an excellent source of protein & fat.
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Dry fruit laddoos help in optimum brain development, as these foods are rich in iron, essential fats like omega 3 & several minerals.
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Ragi porridge is one of the best foods for babies. It’s a good source of calcium & very beneficial when the baby starts teething. The dietary fibre in ragi promotes digestion & helps the child feel full for a longer time.
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Sweet potato boiled or baked with butter is usually a favourite of kids due to its natural sweetness, even for those babies who are fussy. Being rich in antioxidants, beta carotene, vitamin C & B complex vitamins, iron & phosphorous, sweet potatoes are excellent immunity boosters. They are also rich in fiber thus, good for digestion.
