2023-08-23 15:56:26
Parents are constantly on the lookout for the best nutrition options for their little ones, and one often overlooked choice that packs a punch in terms of nutrients is dried fruit. According to a report published by the medical website “onlymyhealth,” pediatric nutritionist Dr. Purnima Prabhu highlights the benefits of dried fruits and shares insights into the appropriate time for children to consume them.
One of the key advantages of dried fruits and nuts, as highlighted by Dr. Prabhu, is their high nutritional value. These dried treats are packed with essential vitamins, minerals, healthy fats, and immune-boosting nutrients such as vitamin A, D, E, and K, B complex, calcium, zinc, and vitamin C. These nutrients are vital for energy production and a healthy immune system. Alongside this, dried fruits also contain good fats, including brain-boosting omega-3 fatty acids found in walnuts and flax/chia seeds, as stated by the health-focused website WebMd.
Additionally, dried fruits contribute to the development of healthy bones and muscles due to their mineral content, which includes iron, calcium, and potassium. These minerals aid in promoting overall growth and maintaining strong bone health.
Fiber is another standout benefit of dried fruits. This high fiber content helps regulate bowel movements and prevents constipation, which is sometimes a concern for children. Dr. Prabhu also suggests that introducing small amounts of soaked and mashed dried fruits can gently encourage regular digestion in babies.
When it comes to brain development, healthy fats play a vital role. Dried fruits such as walnuts and almonds contain omega-3 fatty acids that support cognitive function. As a result, including these nuts in a child’s diet once they are ready for solid foods can give their brain power a boost.
Furthermore, dried fruits act as a natural source of energy for active babies due to their carbohydrate content. Including a small portion as a snack can provide a quick and sustained energy boost.
As for introducing dried fruits into a child’s diet, it is recommended to wait until they reach 6 to 8 months of age, according to Dr. Prabhu. Starting with easy-to-digest, single-ingredient options such as mashed banana or cooked sweet potato is advised before gradually introducing well-soaked, chopped dried fruits. It is always essential to consult a pediatrician before introducing new foods to a child’s diet.
However, precautions and safety measures should also be considered. Some children may have allergies to certain nuts, so it is crucial to offer them one at a time and in small quantities. Additionally, whole nuts pose a choking hazard, so they should be avoided in the early stages. According to Dr. Prabhu, once a child learns to eat solid foods, nuts can be cut up and given whole under supervision. Other safety measures include soaking and softening dried fruits before serving them to reduce the risk of choking, and watching for signs of allergies by introducing new foods one at a time.
In conclusion, dried fruits can be a great addition to a child’s diet, providing essential nutrients, promoting bone and muscle health, supporting a healthy digestive system, boosting brain development, and serving as a natural source of energy. However, it is important to introduce dried fruits at the appropriate time and take necessary precautions to ensure the safety and well-being of children.]
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