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15 Months Old Baby Food - Ideas, Chart and Recipes
It is quite natural to completely run out of ideas for meals or even snacks for a 15-month-old child when you are used to a very typical meal schedule for yourself. The nutritional requirements for adults and kids are quite different and figuring out what food items can suffice them both can be quite tricky. This is where a proper meal plan and a simple schedule can be quite handy.
Video: Food Ideas for 15 Month Old Baby
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7d7Noe6d95o
Nutrient Requirements for a 15 Months Old Child
The nutritional requirements for a 15-month-old child are all-encompassing. There is a necessity for all the major nutrients to be present in the appropriate quantities, even with reduced food intake.
1. Supporting nutrients
With reduced food intake, the chances of minor nutrients such as probiotics, omega-3 acids and others falling short in their required proportion are quite high. Therefore, a special focus is needed to ensure these are included in the diet.
2. Water
Including water, especially in the diet is highly recommended since most kids won’t remember to have as much water as they should. Roughly a litre of water is the least your child should drink in a single day.
3. Iron
The requirement of iron from other food items increases strongly as your child grows up, since his dependency on breastmilk, the primary source of iron, will begin to reduce. Make sure that he gets 7mg of iron daily from his food intake.
4. Sodium
The major food item that provides us with sodium is salt. While that might usually take care of the general requirement of a child amongst other food items, households that sparingly use salt should take extra care of this.
5. Fibre
Bowel movement and proper digestion are how your children can truly get the benefits that all the nutrients provide. Including fibre in the diet not only ensures this but also keeps the rest of the body functioning optimally.
6. Carbohydrates
The powerhouse of all energy, these form the core of any meal that your kid would have. There should be no compromise in the number of carbohydrates since there is a vast dependency of various bodily processes on it.
7. Proteins
Vegetarian families might worry about providing their kids with the necessary amount of protein they need. While meat does provide a substantial amount of protein, there are vegetarian alternatives providing good nutrition, too.
8. Calories
The growth rate of your kid might not be as rapid as it was during his early baby days. This results in a calorie requirement of around a kilocalorie or so, on a daily basis, which increases gradually over the years.
How Much Food Does Toddler Need at 15th Month?
Depending on your child’s physical activities and metabolism, a toddler’s food requirements stay within the range of 1000 to 1400 calories within the first few years. Hence, breakfast ideas and meal options need to strike a balance together to ensure proper nutrition for the child.
Best Foods for Fifteen-Month-Old Baby
Some specific food items make for great choices in giving your little one a wholesome meal that provides the necessary nutrition he needs.
1. Meat
It is important to know that little kids cannot have large pieces of meat such as steaks or hams like adults. The protein requirement for their age can be substantially satisfied by opting for lean meat alternatives, such as minced pork, soft fish, crumbled chicken or ham, and so on. Precautions need to be taken when including seafood in their diet.
2. Legumes and Nuts
While eggs also make for a great meal choice to provide your kids with proteins and fats, vegetarians can rejoice with a better alternative in legumes and nuts. Giving nuts directly to your kid is not advised since it can be a choking hazard. However, using food items that contain nuts as an element shouldn’t be a problem.
3. Vegetables
Most kids will start eating their veggies around this age. Certain items might still be a bit difficult to chew, and those can be either boiled or steamed to soften them up. Avoid fried vegetables and opt for a variety that gives your kid a wider taste spectrum to enjoy.
4. Grains
Parents are suggested to go for whole grain varieties when choosing food items, as an easy way to keep up with the nutrient requirement of your child. These can exist in variants of roti, rice and pasta as well. On the other hand, any fortified cereals free from artificial additions make for a great choice, too.
5. Fruits
Not only do fruits provide your kid with a different range of tastes as compared to other food items, but the presence of natural fibre in them also helps in stimulation of the digestive system as well as help in procuring different vitamins.
6. Snacks
While your little one might munch of tiny pieces of cookie or toast, it is best to avoid giving any sugar-heavy products early in life. Make use of cheese based items or steamed veggies to satiate the random cravings.
7. Oil
Even a 15-month-old baby requires fat, much more than anybody else. Those are the energy reserves that keep them going. Opt for oils that have no trans fats or go for alternatives like butter.
8. Dairy
A combination of protein and calcium is highly necessary for kids at this age since their bones and muscles need to be strong. Make sure you include whole milk and some yoghurt in your kid’s diet.
9. Juices
Although it is best your kids have fruits instead of juices, these still can be a great addition to his diet, but only when pressed fresh and absent of any additions. Don’t replace water intake with juices.
10. Multivitamins
The body constitution or family lifestyle might make a nutrient deficiency possible in a child. Such a scenario needs to be combated with a multivitamin that can supplement any dietary shortfalls.
Video: Diet Plan for 15 Month Old Baby
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W49-O7v62VI
15 Month Old Baby Food Chart/Meal Plan
Putting together a baby diet chart for 15-month-old kids isn’t an easy task. Referring to the one below, you can create your own that suits your child the best.
Diet for a 15-month-old – Week 1, Day 1
Breakfast
Rajgira(amaranth) puff milkshake with chopped anjeer(fig)
Mid-morning
Chopped pear / apple
Lunch
Multigrain roti + dal + a sabzi of choice + a few slices of tomato
Evening
Seviyan(semolina) porridge
Dinner
Paratha + paneer(cottage cheese) bhurji
Diet for a 15-month-old – Week 1, Day 2
Breakfast
Boiled egg yolk or homemade paneer(cottage cheese)
Mid-morning
Chopped melon
Lunch
Roti + dal + a sabzi of choice + a few slices of cucumber
Evening
Chikoo(sapota) milkshake
Dinner
Vegetable soup + fried rice + a few slices of carrot
Diet for a 15-month-old – Week 1, Day 3
Breakfast
Besan(gram flour)-jowar(sorghum)-coriander chilla made with curd
Mid-morning
Orange juice
Lunch
Multigrain roti + dal + a sabzi of choice + grated carrot
Evening
Palak(spinach) dhokla
Dinner
Mixed vegetable khichdi with kadhi
Diet for a 15-month-old – Week 1, Day 4
Breakfast
Besan(gram flour) chilla with grated carrots
Mid-morning
Chikoo(sapota) milkshake
Lunch
Roti + dal + a sabzi of choice + a few slices of cucumber
Evening
Sweet potato + poha(flatenned rice) powder
Dinner
Whole wheat pasta in homemade tomato puree
Diet for a 15-month-old – Week 1, Day 5
Breakfast
Vegetable upma made with buttermilk
Mid-morning
Date and skimmed milk powder ladoo
Lunch
Multigrain roti + dal + a sabzi of choice + a few slices of boiled beetroot
Evening
Carrot-beetroot soup with mashed murmura(puffed rice)
Dinner
Dal khichdi with vegetable soup
Diet for a 15-month-old – Week 1, Day 6
Breakfast
Omelette with bread or paneer(cottage cheese) sandwich
Mid-morning
Palak(spinach) + grapes-apple smoothie
Lunch
Roti + dal + a sabzi of choice + a few slices of cucumber
Evening
2-3 paneer(cottage cheese)-anjeer(fig) ladoo
Dinner
Stuffed parathas with curd or lassi
Diet for a 15-month-old – Week 1, Day 7
Breakfast
Rajgira(amaranth)- wheat sheera with mashed raisins
Mid-morning
Date ladoo mixed with chana(chickpeas) powder + milk
Lunch
Multigrain roti + dal + a sabzi of choice + a few slices of tomato
Evening
Papaya and pear cubes
Dinner
Roti + sabzi + dal fry
Ensure the child has at least half a cup of milk every day.
Diet for a 15-month-old – Week 2, Day 1
Breakfast
1 egg or paneer(cottage cheese) paratha with green chutney
Mid-morning
1 glass of apple milkshake
Lunch
Multigrain roti + dal + a sabzi of choice + a few slices of tomato
Evening
Seviyan(semolina) porridge
Dinner
Paneer(cottage cheese) cutlets with broccoli soup and toast
Diet for a 15-month-old – Week 2, Day 2
Breakfast
Scrambled eggs + multigrain toast + 1 glass of fresh orange juice
Mid-morning
1 glass of chocolate milkshake
Lunch
Roti + dal + a sabzi of choice + a few slices of cucumber
Evening
Whole wheat crackers with dahi(curd)-palak(spinach) dip
Dinner
Paneer(cottage cheese) or egg pulao with vegetable raita
Diet for a 15-month-old – Week 2, Day 3
Breakfast
Rajgira(amaranth) puff porridge with almond and walnut powder
Mid-morning
Papaya
Lunch
Multigrain roti + dal + a sabzi of choice + grated carrot
Evening
Boiled sweet potato with chaat masala(spice powder mix)
Dinner
Chole(chickpeas) paratha and pumpkin soup
Diet for a 15-month-old – Week 2, Day 4
Breakfast
1 cup of poha + 1 small glass of fresh orange juice
Mid-morning
1 glass of milk
Lunch
Roti + dal + a sabzi of choice + a few slices of cucumber
Evening
Paneer(cottage cheese) cubes with honey or chaat masala(spice powder mix)
Dinner
Ragi(finger millet)-wheat roti with any sabzi and dal
Diet for a 15-month-old – Week 2, Day 5
Breakfast
French toast + 1 glass of fresh apple juice
Mid-morning
1 glass of chikoo(sapota) milkshake
Lunch
Multigrain roti + dal + a sabzi of choice + a few slices of boiled beetroot
Evening
Rajgira(amaranth) ladoo dipped in milk
Dinner
Spinach-quinoa khichdi with curd
Diet for a 15-month-old – Week 2, Day 6
Breakfast
Dhokla + green chutney
Mid-morning
Strawberry yoghurt or banana raita
Lunch
Roti + dal + a sabzi of choice + a few slices of cucumber
Evening
Ragi(finger millet) satva
Dinner
Baingan(brinjal) bharta with bajra(pearl millet) roti and kadhi
Diet for a 15-month-old – Week 2, Day 7
Breakfast
1 egg or besan(gram flour) omelette
Mid-morning
Custard apple milkshake
Lunch
Multigrain roti + dal + a sabzi of choice + a few slices of tomato
Evening
Potato-cheese lollipop
Dinner
Drumstick soup with moringa leaves+ paneer(cottage cheese) paratha
Diet for a 15-month-old – Week 3, Day 1
Breakfast
Vegetable upma made with buttermilk
Mid-morning
Date and skimmed milk powder ladoo
Lunch
Multigrain roti + dal + a sabzi of choice + a few slices of tomato
Evening
Potato and dahi(curd) chaat
Dinner
Vegetable khichdi with dahi or kadhi
Diet for a 15-month-old – Week 3, Day 2
Breakfast
Whole wheat pancakes with honey or sugar and milk
Mid-morning
Palak(spinach) + grapes- apple smoothie
Lunch
Roti + dal + a sabzi of choice + a few slices of cucumber
Evening
Wheat and soy flour cookies with milk
Dinner
1-2 small star-shaped jowar(sorghum)-paneer(cottage cheese)-palak(spinach) paratha
Diet for a 15-month-old – Week 3, Day 3
Breakfast
Jowar(sorghum) puff porridge
Mid-morning
Date ladoo mixed with chana(chickpeas) powder + milk
Lunch
Multigrain roti + dal + a sabzi of choice + grated carrot
Evening
Paneer(cottage cheese) cubes with honey or chaat masala(spice powder mix)
Dinner
Peas and potato sabzi with paratha
Diet for a 15-month-old – Week 3, Day 4
Breakfast
Murmura(puffed rice) porridge with almond powder
Mid-morning
Mango/strawberry yoghurt with oats
Lunch
Roti + dal + a sabzi of choice + a few slices of cucumber
Evening
Apple kheer + carrot paratha
Dinner
Dal khichdi with grated carrot
Diet for a 15-month-old – Week 3, Day 5
Breakfast
1 cup of poha + 1 small glass of fresh orange juice
Mid-morning
Oats-apple smoothie
Lunch
Multigrain roti + dal + a sabzi of choice + a few slices of boiled beetroot
Evening
Dalia(broken wheat)
Dinner
Shahi paneer with paratha and tomato- mushroom soup
Diet for a 15-month-old – Week 3, Day 6
Breakfast
French toast + 1 glass of fresh apple juice
Mid-morning
Peanut ladoo
Lunch
Roti + dal + a sabzi of choice + a few slices of cucumber
Evening
Methi(fenugreek leaves) thepla + lauki(bottle gourd) kofta
Dinner
Idli with non-spicy sambar
Diet for a 15-month-old – Week 3, Day 7
Breakfast
Multigrain chilla + milk
Mid-morning
Mashed potato with cheese
Lunch
Multigrain roti + dal + a sabzi of choice + a few slices of tomato
Evening
Fruit milkshake
Dinner
Roti + dal + a sabzi of choice + a few slices of cucumber
Diet for a 15-month-old – Week 4, Day 1
Breakfast
Fruit custard
Mid-morning
Sattu(barley) ladoo
Lunch
Multigrain roti + dal + a sabzi of choice + a few slices of tomato
Evening
Grilled carrot coins with cheese
Dinner
Methi(fenugreek leaves) paratha with lauki(bottle gourd) kofta
Diet for a 15-month-old – Week 4, Day 2
Breakfast
Grated cucumber and oats pancake
Mid-morning
Methi(fenugreek leaves) puri
Lunch
Roti + dal + a sabzi of choice + a few slices of cucumber
Evening
Seviyan(semolina) porridge
Dinner
Paneer(cottage cheese) cutlets with palak(spinach) soup and toast
Diet for a 15-month-old – Week 4, Day 3
Breakfast
Vegetable upma made with buttermilk
Mid-morning
Mashed and eseeded custard apple
Lunch
Multigrain roti + dal + a sabzi of choice + grated carrot
Evening
Whole wheat crackers with dahi(curd)-palak(spinach) dip
Dinner
Kadhi chawal and tomato slices
Diet for a 15-month-old – Week 4, Day 4
Breakfast
Omelette with bread or paneer(cottage cheese) sandwich
Mid-morning
Melon juice
Lunch
Roti + dal + a sabzi of choice + a few slices of cucumber
Evening
Homemade French fries or aloo(potato) chips
Dinner
1 small cup chole(chickpeas) + 2 small puri + 1 small glass lassi
Diet for a 15-month-old – Week 4, Day 5
Breakfast
Rajgira(amaranth) wheat sheera with mashed raisins
Mid-morning
Scrambled eggs or paneer(cottage cheese) ladoo
Lunch
Multigrain roti + dal + a sabzi of choice + a few slices of boiled beetroot
Evening
Makhana(fox nut) + chocolate milkshake
Dinner
Fish curry or paneer(cottage cheese) curry with rice
Diet for a 15-month-old – Week 4, Day 6
Breakfast
Mini Kanchipuram idlis with chutney
Mid-morning
Murmura sev
Lunch
Roti + dal + a sabzi of choice + a few slices of cucumber
Evening
Sliced apple or banana
Dinner
Paneer(cottage cheese) paratha with capsicum sabzi
Diet for a 15-month-old – Week 4, Day 7
Breakfast
Scrambled egg + multigrain toast + 1 glass of chocolate milkshake
Mid-morning
Boiled chana(chickpeas) chaat
Lunch
Multigrain roti + dal + a sabzi of choice + a few slices of tomato
Evening
Mango milkshake
Dinner
Peas and potato sabzi with paratha
Video: 15 Month Old Baby Food Recipes
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kNuRGkQao1I
Food Recipes for a 15 Months Old Baby
For parents struggling with unique meals or lunch ideas for their 15-month-old kid, these recipes can provide a quick escape as well as stoke their imagination to make some more.
1. Curd Rice
The quintessential food preparation that works wonders no matter when and where you have it.
Ingredients
Black gram
Ginger
Curry leaves
Green chilli
Red Chilli
Oil
Mustard seeds
Salt
Cream
Curd
Milk
Cooked rice
How To Prepare
Take the cooked rice and mash it well. Add milk to it and stir it all together. Follow it up with the curd and cream and stir it again.
Take a pan and put some oil in it. Put all the seasoning elements together and heat them well. Add some oil and pour in the rice into this.
2. Khichdi
What might be comfort food for adults in their illness, is a perfect lunch item for young kids, providing great nutrition.
Ingredients
Pepper powder
Turmeric
Ghee
Salt
Vegetables
Red gram
Rice
How To Prepare
Take the rice and dal together and wash them well. Keep them soaked underwater for about 30 minutes.
Until then, take the vegetables and chop them properly. Add these to the rice and dal bowl. Place this inside a cooker and let it sit on medium heat until two whistles.
Release the pressure and check if the rice is cooked.
Take it out in a bowl and mash it with ghee. Add salt, pepper and turmeric for added taste and mix properly.
3. Pasta Kheer
Caught you by surprise, didn’t it? Let your child revel in delight as well when he comes across this weirdly beautiful recipe.
Ingredients
Milk
Rice flour
Green cardamoms
Jaggery syrup
Pasta
Water
How To Prepare
Take a pan and add water to it. Bring it to a boil, add the pasta to it, cook it, and drain it well.
In another pan, add ghee and butter with some cashews and roast them well. Follow up with milk and let it boil. Add the pasta to it and cook it all together.
In a cup, add milk, water and the rice flour. Mix it all properly till it is smooth. Pour it into the pan and stir continuously.
Once the kheer is thick, add cardamom seeds with jaggery syrup, and serve.
4. Roasted Green Beans
Do away with the usual boring snacks and add a great flavour to this healthy option that will make your child fall in love with greens.
Ingredients
Extra virgin olive oil
Sea salt
Green beans
How To Prepare
Start by heating the oven to a temperature of 425 degrees. Keep a pan inside it for 8-10 minutes.
Add the beans in a bowl and pour a little oil while sprinkling some salt. Toss them all together to mix it well.
Spread these beans on a sheet laid on the tray, without letting them cover each other.
Place them in the oven for around 10 minutes to make them crispy and soft.
5. Purple Veggie Puree
For kids that are bored with the same old purees, this vividly coloured version will have their eyes light up instantly.
Ingredients
Water
Lemon juice
Frozen spinach
Blueberries
How To Prepare
Take a pan and add water and spinach to it together. Bring it to a boil and let it simmer for 8 minutes.
Drain the water and mash together lemon juice, water, blueberries and spinach to form a nice thick puree.
Feeding Tips
With some simple tips, while feeding your kid, you can make the experience easier for you and better for the little ones.
Let your kid eat from the food prepared for your family as well, as long as it isn’t spicy
Start teaching your kid to eat certain items with his own hands
Don’t force your kid to finish up his food quickly
It is fine for your kid to eat intermittently than sit quietly for a full meal
Don’t fuss if your kid suddenly changes his eating habits
Make the entire experience of enjoying food items a fun-filled one
With numerous dinner ideas for your little kid at your disposal, your meals will take a new life of their own in the coming weeks. Observe your child and try to see what he likes and what he doesn’t, to balance out his meal schedule accordingly.
Disclaimer:
Each child is different and so use these meal plans as a trusted guide as per your discretion. You can modify the meals according to your child’s preferences / requirements.
Never force-feed a child.
While preparing formula, please follow the instructions on the box and use the measuring spoon provided with it.
While introducing solid food to a baby, initially, one needs to prepare watery gruels/soups. As a child gets older, the caretaker/ mother has to increase the thickness of the liquids slowly according to the child’s capacity to swallow. Foods that are too thick can cause stomach upset/ unnecessary load; while excessively watery food might cause the child to remain hungry.
Some kids may eat less on some days and that is absolutely alright. However, if a child eats less for more than 3-4 consecutive days, please visit a doctor to guide further.
A child may eat less during the teething phase or if he/she may not be feeling well. You could increase breast milk /formula feeds on those days. Re-introduce the foods once the child is back to normal.
Don’t stop feeding if the child is suffering from diarrhoea.
You can alter the taste of the food by adding some natural flavours like cinnamon, jeera powder, lemon juice, curry leaves etc. if the child doesn’t accept the food initially.
If your child suffers from an allergy to nuts, gluten or eggs, please consult your doctor before feeding him/her any foods that may contain them.
Also Read: List of 12 Healthy Weight Gain Foods for Babies & Kids Read more
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Household Work During Pregnancy – What to Do and What to Avoid
Pregnancy is a period where women gain a considerable amount of weight, and their body warrants a re-adjustment in balancing as the weight piles on in one place - the belly. This can make it difficult for pregnant women to manoeuvre. Add to this the feeling of exhaustion and you may find yourself wondering if you should be doing all the housework that you usually perform.
While it is safe to attend to most household activities during pregnancy, some tasks are best avoided or delegated to others. Read on to understand what activities you should and should not do; the risks of a sedentary lifestyle during pregnancy, and the risks associated with doing strenuous household work during this time.
Is It Safe to Do Household Work During Pregnancy?
The answer is rather simple - one has to balance work and rest in order to have a stress-free pregnancy. It is commonly understood that while it is risky to do strenuous work, the contrary is equally unhealthy. A sedentary lifestyle too can have adverse effects on a pregnancy. By and large, therefore, it can be concluded that it is safe to attend to most of the household activities.
Household Work You Can Do While Pregnant
Some basic household chores and tasks can be attended to with relative ease, while some tasks may involve the practice of doing them differently.
Cutting & cleaning vegetables is one task that can be done effortlessly. Most women are used to cutting vegetables while standing, but pregnant women are recommended to pull up a chair and sit while performing the tasks.
Sweeping and mopping can also be done with a bit of innovation. It is advised that you pick brooms and mops with long handles attached to them so you do not have to bend too much. Pregnancy puts additional stress due to weight gain and causes a marginal shift in the body’s centre of gravity. This can add stress to the body of the woman performing the chore and aggravate the sciatic nerve - a nerve that runs from the lower back to the leg. Thus, tasks that require bending and standing for prolonged periods should be avoided. If it makes you feel tired, stop the activity immediately and take rest. If you do not have proper long-handled brooms and mops, it is best that someone else does the cleaning.
Cleaning bathrooms and toilets should only be attempted by expecting moms who have access to green/eco-friendly cleaners. Using harsh, chemical-based products is a strict no. White vinegar, lemon juice and baking soda are some effective and inexpensive cleaning products that can be used safely during pregnancy. If you do not have access to these products, it's best to leave this job to someone else.
Light washing of utensils and dishes can be done, but refrain from standing for more than 15 – 20 minutes.
Household Chores to Avoid During Pregnancy
Almost all household activities can be done during the first few months of pregnancy. While it is safe to do household chores during early pregnancy, some household chores are best avoided at this time because they may put undue stress on the body and could potentially put the baby at risk. Repetitive and monotonous tasks increase stress hormones, which is not good for pregnant women.
Any task that involves lifting heavy loads or shifting furniture should be avoided; activities like carrying laundry should also be avoided as well as they can cause preterm labour symptoms and high blood pressure.
Any task that requires you to climb should not be attempted. The weight gained during pregnancy alters the body’s centre of gravity and women are more prone to losing their balance. Tasks, like cleaning the ceiling fans or changing the curtains, are best delegated to someone else.
Pregnant moms with pets, particularly those with cats should completely avoid cleaning the litter tray. Cat litter contains a parasite called Toxoplasma Gondi which can pose a serious threat to the mother and baby. Although you are more likely to contract this by eating undercooked meat or from the garden, cat litter also poses a threat. If there is no one else available to do the same, proceed with extreme caution. Use gloves to do the same, and after you're done, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and rinse well.
Hate the sight of cockroaches, ants and pests and would like to eliminate them immediately? For your own sake, don’t do it. Going after roaches and other household pests almost always involves the use of toxic chemical sprays; the poisonous fumes which are meant to kill these pests also pose a threat to you and your baby.
If you feel the urge to repaint a room in your house, then its best that you wait till the baby is born. Paints emit fumes when they are applied, and for several hours up until they dry, these fumes can have adverse effects on a to-be mom and her baby.
Household chores during pregnancy are a great way to remain active and stay fit during pregnancy. While it is safe to do household work during pregnancy, it is important to remember that certain household tasks pose a hazard to pregnant women. Always keep in mind tasks that have to be avoided. Listening to your body is also important. Refrain from any work that makes you tired or sick and work out a schedule that includes a good amount of rest along with work.
Resources and References: Parents
Also Read: Exercises You Should Avoid When Pregnant Read more
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Millet (Bajra) for Babies - Health Benefits and Recipes
Every doctor or nutritionist will say that the diet your baby is on is instrumental in their development, this is because what you feed them is crucial and their nutrition can impact numerous parts of life like their physical health for the present as well as for the future. This is why putting them on a diet that is both nutritional and healthy at an early age is very important. Millets are one of the healthiest ingredients for an adult or baby to have in their diet, it is also one of the most versatile ingredients to cook with. You can make many things from this superfood like millet upma or millet porridge for babies.
What is Millet?
Millets are a gluten-free, rich in fiber grain that is nutritious, highly digestible grain that is both nutritious and easy to prepare. This grain is considered one of the least allergenic foods available today. It very closely resembles barely in terms of size and shape but is higher in fiber making it easy to digest. Millets are also considered superfoods because it is additionally rich in Vitamin B, Protein, Potassium, Iron, Magnesium and Phosphorus.
What Kinds of Millet Available in India?
One of the reason you can use millets with versatility is due to the number of dishes that can be made with this superfood, you can make anything from millet idlis to millet cereal for babies, this is because there are a number of varieties of millets, here are the ones easiest to find in India:
1. Foxtail Millet
Known as Kakum orKangniin Hindi, foxtail millets are extremely commonly found in India, this type of millet is great for controlling blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Here are the nutritional facts for foxtail millets:
2. Pearl Millet
This is the most commonly found millet in India and is known as Bajra. This type of millet is renowned for its ability to help manage and prevent type 2 diabetes. It is also extremely rich in magnesium.
3. Finger Millet
Known as Ragi, this millet is extremely popular in Southern India, specifically the farming state of Karnataka. It is common to use finger millet for babies due to its digestibility and nutritional value.
4. Kodo Millet
Rich in a type of antioxidant known as polyphenol and fiber while also being low on fat, this millet is commonly used to manage diabetes. It is known as Kodra or Varagu.
5. Little Millet
Known for its ability to help fight stomach diseases and diabetes, this type of millet is also rich in iron, fiber and antioxidants. It is known as Kutki or Saamai.
6. Barnyard Millet
Commonly called Jhangora or Kuthiravali, this type of millet is extremely rich in fiber, phosphorus and calcium.
7. Sorghum Millet
Commonly called Jowar, this millet is considered one of the easiest available and popular millets in India, it is rich in unsaturated fats, protein, calcium and minerals like phosphorus and potassium. It is also high in macronutrients and antioxidants.
Here is a nutritional chart for all the millets mentioned above:
Crop / Nutrient
Protein(g)
Fat (g)
Fiber(g)
Minerals(g)
Iron(mg)
Calcium(mg)
Calories (kcal)
Pearl Millet
10.6
4.8
1.3
2.3
16.9
38
378
Finger Millet
7.3
1.5
3.6
2.7
3.9
344
336
Foxtail Millet
12.3
4
8
3.3
2.8
31
473
Kodo Millet
8.3
3.6
9
2.6
0.5
27
309
Little Millet
7.7
5.2
7.6
1.5
9.3
17
207
Barnyard Millet
11.2
3.9
10.1
4.4
15.2
11
342
Sorghum
10.4
3.1
2
1.6
5.4
25
329
Proso Millet
12.5
2.9
2.2
1.9
0.8
14
356
Rice
6.8
2.7
0.2
0.6
0.7
10
362
Wheat
11.8
2
1.2
1.5
5.3
41
348
Is Millet Safe for Infants?
Millets are extremely safe for infants when prepared correctly, it is extremely rich in antioxidants, protein, vitamins and minerals. Millets are also easy to digest and is commonly considered gluten free, this makes it extremely rare that your child is allergic to them.
When Can Your Baby Eat Millet?
Your baby can start eating millets at around 6 months, it is important to remember that any new ingredient, millets included, should be eased into your child’s diet. Start them off with a spoonful and gradually increase quantities.
Which Millet is Good for Babies?
Most millets are great for babies, it is however recommended that you feed your child pearl millet, foxtail millet or sorghum millet as they are the easiest to prepare and digest. Remember to talk to your nutritionist and doctors for more precise information on what millets can be fed to your child specifically.
Health Benefits of Millet for Babies
Millets have immense nutritional value and thus have numerous health benefits. Here are a few of these.
1. Helps Digestion
One of the most important nutrients that helps with digestion is fiber, most millets are rich in fiber. Millets also are known to have antioxidants and properties that help combat and prevent stomach bugs.
2. Strong Bones
One mineral most millets are rich in is calcium, this plays a huge part in developing strong healthy bones in your baby.
3. Muscle Recovery
As your baby grows, their muscles are used in different ways, this can cause muscle fatigue. Protein is important for muscle recovery and millets are a magnificent source of protein and the healthiest source of protein for babies.
4. Helps Metabolic Rates
A key mineral involved with breaking down and metabolizing fats is Phosphorus, this is essentially also important in repairing damaged tissues. Most types of millets are rich in phosphorus.
5. Prevents Anemia
Millets are rich in iron, this helps prevent your babies from becoming anemic.
6. Weight Management
Millets are a rich source of healthy carbohydrates called complex carbohydrates, this keeps your baby full for longer because it takes longer for the body to break these carbs down. This also helps weight management.
How to Select and Store Millet as Baby Food?
It is recommended that you stick to organic ingredients that are prepared fresh. Ensure that any food is stored in hygienic conditions; do not feed your child stale food. It is recommended that millets specifically are not exposed to direct sunlight and are stored in a clean, dark and cool environment. Do not store millets in the refrigerator if it is not yet cooked.
Millet Recipes for Your Baby
Millets are extremely easy to prepare. This is why cooking millet for your baby is extremely easy, here are a few recipes:
1. Millet Porridge
Millet porridge is an easy to make and healthy dish for your baby.
What You Will Need
Finger Millets – 3 tablespoons.
Water – 1 cup
How to Prepare
In a saucepan, boil a cup of water
Add millets
Stir continuously till it is smooth
Cover and let it boil for 10 mi
Let it cool to room temperature and serve
2. Millet Cereal
Another easy to prepare dish, here’s how you make it.
What You Will Need
Olive Oil – 1 tablespoon
Sorghum Millet – 1 cup
Water – 2 cups
How to Prepare
Heat a pan with the olive oil on a low flame
Toast the millets till they brown
Boil water separately, add to the millets and stir till it is fluffy
Add vanilla, cinnamon or veggies
Serve at room temperature
3. Millet Stew
Stews are extremely healthy for your child, here’s a really cool recipe for millet stew.
What You Will Need
Diced Veggies – 1 handful
Foxtail Millets – 1 cup
Pear Juice – ¾ cup
Water – 1 cup
How to Prepare
To make this stew, simply add water to a saucepan, add all the ingredients, bring to a boil on a low heat. Serve at room temperature.
4. Millet Salad
Salads are a great lunch on a hot day for your child, here’s a simple but tasty salad recipe.
What You Will Need
Sorghum Millet – 3 tablespoons
Green Veggies – 1 cup
Olive Oil – 1 tablespoon
How to Prepare
To make this dish, add olive oil to a pan and heat on a low flame, then lightly toast all the veggies and millets for 10 minutes and serve at room temperature.
It is extremely important to incorporate other healthy ingredients to your child’s meal plan, millets are superfoods but they cannot be the entire diet for your child. To better understand the nutritional requirements of your child and how to incorporate millets to their diet, please consult your dietician or nutritionist.
Also Read:
Apple Puree for Baby
6 Months Old Baby Food Ideas
Fiber Rich Foods for Babies
Quinoa for Babies Read more
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Laced Chocolate Ganache Cake
One piece of this laced chocolate ganache cake can bring an instant smile on your kid’s face. Chocolate cakes are always a hit among kids. But, the one we are sharing here is not your regular chocolate cake – it is something special. Covered in decadent chocolate ganache and wrapped with a chocolate lace, it is sure to win your kid’s heart instantly
Serves
Preparation Time
Cooking Time
8 People
20 - 25 Minutes
25 - 30 Minutes
Ingredients
2/3 cup maida
½ cup condensed milk
¼ cup butter
3 tbsp cocoa powder
3/4 tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
100 ml soda water
½ tsp vanilla essence
For the Ganache
60 gram dark chocolate, chopped
60 ml cream
For the chocolate lace
50 gram chocolate
Chocolate shavings for garnishing
Method
Step 1
Preheat the oven at 180 C. Grease a 6 inch round tin and dust it with flour.
Step 2
In a mixing bowl, shift all the dry ingredients and stir well. In another medium mixing bowl, add the softened butter and condensed milk and whisk for two minutes. Add the vanilla essence and whisk it well again.
Step 3
Now add the liquid mixture to the dry mixture, slowly and keep whisking to form a lump-free batter. Add the soda water and mix for another 2 minutes.
Step 4
Pour the batter in pre-greased tin and bake it at 180 degrees celsius in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. When done a skewer pricked in the middle of the cake will come out clean.
Step 5
Cool it completely on a wire rack. While it is cooling prepare the ganache.
Step 6
Boil cream in a saucepan and add the chopped chocolate into it. Stir and take it off heat. Keep stirring till you get a smooth chocolatey ganache. Let it cool it for 7-10 minutes and pour the ganache over the cooled cake. Spread the ganache evenly.
Step 7
Make a cone with parchment paper. Also cut a strip of parchment paper that fits into the circumference of the cake.
Step 8
Chop the chocolate and melt it in a microwave. Let it cool for a minute or so and fill the paper cone with melted chocolate. Straighten both the ends of the parchment paper and using the parchment paper cone, pipe a lace border chocolate.
Step 9
When the piped border is semi set – it will take 3-4 minutes; carefully wrap it around the cake. Transfer the cake in the refrigerator for 5 minutes. After 5 minutes, take it out and peel off the parchment paper to get a beautifully set lace border.
Step 10
Slice and serve!
Nutritional Information
Calories
233 K cal
Proteins
4.1 g
Fats
12.2 g
Carbohydrates
28.1 g
Cholesterol
26 mg
Sodium
158 mg
Potassium
236 mg
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जगण्याला मिळाली नवीन दिशा
खरंच आहे हो जीवनात जेव्हा परिस्थिती आपल्या हातात नसते, तेव्हा प्रत्येक माणूस गड़बडून जातो, असंच काहीसं घडलं क्षमा बरोबर. पण ती सर्वात मोठी बहीण होती चार भावंडांची.
गव्हर्नमेंट प्रेस मध्ये होते तिचे वडील आणि एका एकीच त्यांची तब्येत बिघडली आणि ऑफिसच्या लोकांनी त्यांना घरी सोडले, पाणी मागितले, घाम सुटला आणि त्यांना देवाज्ञा झाली. क्षमा वर सर्व जबाबदारी आली, आता आईसह भावंडांना पण सांभाळायचे गरजेचे होते.
ती खंबीरपणे परिस्थितीला सामोरी गेली. कुटुंबाला आर्थिक मदत केली. नगर निगम मध्ये सर्विस करत होती आणि तेथे वातावरण पण तेव्हां चांगले नसायचे, तरी घराचे संगोपन करण्यासाठी प्रयत्नशील राहून सर्व काम मुलगी असून पण मुला सारखेच संपवत असे.
आता आईला काळजी वाटायची, हिचे लग्न कसे व्हायचे म्हणून पण ती मात्र खंबीरपणे कुणाचा विचार न करता भावंडाना चांगले शिक्षण मिळावे ह्यासाठी प्रयत्न करत होती आणि त्यात यश मिळवत होती.
कधी-कधी जीवनात आपल्याला असेच काही निर्णय आपल्या माणसांसाठी घेणं गरजेचं असतं कारण की आपण त्यांच्यासाठी जगात आलेलो असतो.
प्रत्येकाने आपल्यातला मी काढून टाकला न तर सर्व उत्तरे आपल्याला सापडतील. मग पुढे तिने फक्त आपल्या हातात जे होते ते केले. भावंडांचे भविष्य चांगले व्हावे यासाठी ती सतत प्रयत्नशील होती.
त्याचबरोबर तिने एम.ए. हिंदीच्या परीक्षा सतत अभ्यास करून चांगल्या मार्काने पास केली, त्याचा फायदा तिला लवकरच मिळाला आणि तिला सेक्शन हेड़ म्हणून प्रमोट केले.
आर्थिक बाजू बळकट झाल्यामुळे पैसा अड़का काहीच त्रास झाला नाही आणि भावांचे शिक्षण सुद्धा निश्चिन्तपणे पूर्ण झाले. आईला मात्र काळजी वाटायची की दिवसेंदिवस वय होतं चालले होते क्षमाचे, पण परिस्थितीला तोंड देण्यासाठी साठी तिने आपल्या लग्नाचा विचार न करता आपल्या भावंडांची लग्न लाऊन दिली आणि त्यांच्या संसारात रमून गेली.
तिला फक्त वाटायचं की मी सर्वांची मदत करीन. नंतर भावांना पोर-बाळांच्या शिक्षणासाठी वेगवेगळ्या ठिकाणी जाणे भाग होते मग ते सुद्धा त्यांच्या संसारात रमून गेले.
क्षमा मात्र आपल्या आईबरोबरच राहिली. तिची पूर्ण सेवा करत होती. असेच काही दिवस सुरू होते, पण आपण म्हणतो न की कधी-कधी परिस्थिती आपल्या हातात नसते. एकेदिवशी आईलेकी मंदिरातून दर्शन घेऊन बाहेर आलेल्या, बघतात तर काय मंदिराच्या पायरीवर लहानशी छकुली दिसली, ती पायरीवरून पडणार तेवढ्यात क्षमाने कडेवर उचलून घेतले आणि गुरूजींना विचारले की कोणाची आहे हो. गुरूजी म्हणाले हे तर मला माहित नाही पण तुम्ही मात्र देवाने दिलेली लक्ष्मीला त्याचे प्रसादाचा रूपात स्वीकारा.
मग आई म्हणाली अग क्षमा गुरूजी बरोबरच तर म्हणतात आहे, देवाने दिलेली लक्ष्मीला स्वीकार कर. देवाने, हाच आशीर्वाद दिला असे समजून तिच्या जगण्याला एक नवीन दिशा दे म्हणजे तुझे हे जीवन सार्थक होईल.
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Sunita Mahato has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
2 hours ago
Q. sir job vacancy are avalable
Sunita Mahato
Mom of 3 children
1 hour ago
A. not the platform fr this question
take care...
Sunita Mahato has added a new answer
Mom of a 1 m old child
1 hour ago
Q. #asktheexperts why my 1 month old baby latch every every 10 15 mins in the afternoon
Sunita Mahato
Mom of 3 children
1 hour ago
A. every 10 to 15 mins baby wants attention and all the time to be in lap so
dnt develop that habit...
maintain a feeding gap of 2 hrs...
always burp after feed..
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Rashmi has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
1 hour ago
Q. Hello doctors.. I am 32 weeks pregnant... I am getting vibration feeling near right upper abdomen... mostly when I lying on left side it's getting vibration feeling... it's normal?
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
1 hour ago
A. Different women have different feeling during the time of pregnancy so it would be normal but if it is happening constantly with you then it would be good for you to get it checked with your doctor whatever is required doctor advise you after examining
Sai Prasanthi R L has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 4 months
1 hour ago
Q. I want something very good products to my coming baby
Sai Prasanthi R L
Mom of a 10 yr 2 m old boy
1 hour ago
A. Hello dear! Try Babyhug skin care and clothing products for the baby. There are safe and effective for almost every skin type. Consult your doctor for further assistance in this regard. Good luck and take care
Dr. Minal Acharya has added a new answer
Mom of a Newborn child
55 mins ago
Q. Hello Mylo family
Can someone help me to select the baby girl's name. We would like to choose our baby girl a beautiful name which starts from G, Also it would be a great help if it is created from the parents name.
Mom's name - Harshitha
Dad's name - Karthik
Thanks in advance 😀
Read moreDr. Minal Acharya
Nutritionist
41 mins ago
A. dear mum, the name of a baby girl starting with the letter G can be Gayatri, for example. you can do a Google search and browse the internet for all the options.
Rashmi has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due this month
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Q. can we get all item in one parcel which I orderd
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A. This is a place which is associated with parenting if you have any questions associated with parenting I can help you with that but if you have any associated with your orders kindly check with the concerned department that they can give clarity about these things
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