The parents' top priority has always been the health of their child. They are constantly concerned about what to give, when to give it, whether to give additional fruits, etc. Along with other nutrients, fiber is extremely necessary. For a nutritious and well-balanced diet, whole grains are a powerhouse of fiber, carbs, and protein. These come in a variety of sizes, shapes, colors and flavors. They can be cooked in a variety of ways depending on the region they are made in, and there are numerous ways to prepare them for consumption. It is high in minerals, vitamins and nutrients.
- Whole grains should be used in favor of processed foods, and you should also add to your child’s diet. It provides energy for an infant or young toddler and one of the best sources of fiber, protein, and carbohydrates for your child as part of a healthy diet is whole grains. Whole grains come in different sizes, shapes, colors, and most importantly, flavors. Their customary preparations are as diverse as the region in which they are cultivated. Additionally, they include a lot of minerals and vitamins. Doctors frequently advise that this food should make up the majority of a child's energy intake.
- In Ayurveda literature, Acharya Kashyapa has mentioned that after the 12th month, children should be fed with gruels prepared with husk free sali and shashtika rice (a variety of rice), mixed with oleaginous substances and salt. Rice (Oryza sativa) is rich in carbohydrates and also contains vitamins and minerals like Iron, Zinc, Calcium etc. It is a good promoter of nourishment and is easily digestible. Godhuma(Wheat) and Yava (Barley) powders can be cooked and given to the child according to congeniality. Godhuma contains carbohydrates, proteins, fatty acids, minerals etc and has body nourishing and immunomodulatory actions. Gruels prepared out of these cereals can be given to the child with proper fortification of nutrients.
- The growth of your child depends on the vitamins, phytochemicals, antioxidants, and fiber that are abundant in whole grains. The nutrients lower the risk of acquiring chronic illnesses, including diabetes, heart disease, and even some types of cancer. Your youngster will feel satisfied after eating the grains, which will prevent them from snacking.
Use a High-Quality Grains Mix
The ability to incorporate both whole grains and processed grains into your daily meals is typically considered advantageous. This would be an effective way to introduce whole grains' somewhat heavier texture and flavor to finicky eaters. On the market today, you can also purchase whole-grain baby food and rice made with whole grains for babies.
Nutritious Baking
When baking, try using more whole grains like spelt or whole wheat in place of refined flours. Is your kid a fusspot? To keep the initial quantities' familiar flavor and texture replace half of them.
Select Convenient, Unprocessed Foods
Fast food is a more convenient way for us to relax our hectic lifestyles. To avoid this, aim to buy food that is both convenient and healthy. Introduce sesame-seed-infused cereal bars, crackers, or quinoa bread to your kids.
Get a Healthy Start to Your Day
The ideal moment to start your day off right is during breakfast. Oatmeal, whole grain baby bread, or buckwheat pancakes give your child the much-needed energy boost they require to complete all of their daily activities. Even whole grain baby oatmeal is available in some stores for younger children.
Use your Imagination to Include a Side Dish
Children can be encouraged to consume more healthy grains by being exposed to imaginative side dishes while they are enjoying their favorite meals. A nutritious dinner is easily accomplished by pairing whole grain bread with soup or stew.
Therefore, making a wise decision and paying attention to the components in your child's meals are the best ways to introduce whole grains into their diet.