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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.
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Uterus Abnormalities during Pregnancy
The uterus is often known as the first home to the unborn child. However, a misshaped uterus can cause complications at any stage of the pregnancy such as a miscarriage or a premature birth. Many first-time mothers have no idea that they have an abnormality in their uterus as prior to that it has never caused any issue. The information that they have an abnormal uterus has an emotional impact on the mother to be as many of them are caught off guard.
A womb or uterus is a pear-shaped organ in a woman’s pelvic region. Generally, it is 3 inches long, 2 inches wide and 1 inch deep. The narrow lower part of the uterus is towards the end of the vagina and it is called a cervix and the wider upper part is called fundus. The fertilized egg matures into a baby in the fundus. In some women, the shape of the uterus or womb varies from the normal standards. This condition is called abnormality of the uterus.
What Are Abnormalities of the Uterus?
Many times, women get to know about their uterine abnormality only when they plan to get pregnant. It is also difficult to determine the exact number of women who have an abnormal uterus as women do not even know that they have this condition until they try to have a baby. The number of women having uterine abnormalities may range from 1 in 20 to 1 in 100.
Where some abnormalities are present from birth, other abnormalities develop during the adolescent years. It is not a condition which can be prevented but with proper guidance and knowledge, one can ward off various complications that may arise during pregnancy.
How Does the Uterus Change?
Once you become pregnant, the fertilized egg attaches itself to the uterine wall. The uterus grows as the pregnancy progresses to accommodate a growing baby. The uterus reaches the height of your naval by the second trimester and by the third trimester, it reaches up to your rib cage. Therefore, a uterus size increases during the pregnancy. Towards the end of the pregnancy, the uterus becomes a size of a big pumpkin or watermelon.
Can I Conceive if I Have Abnormal Uterus?
In some women, the uterus does not develop in a normal shape or it can be said that these women have an abnormal uterus. Though having an abnormal uterus does not mean that you cannot get pregnant but there might be few complications that may arise such as a miscarriage or caesarean deliveries.
Different Types of Uterus Abnormalities
Uterine abnormalities do not necessarily mean that a woman will not be able to have a healthy pregnancy. It entirely depends on the severity of the abnormality. In most cases, uterine abnormality does not affect your ability to become pregnant. Though, the main concern that may arise is the difficulty in carrying the baby in the uterus for whole nine months. Let us know about various uterus abnormalities or various shapes of the uterus:
Bicornuate uterus
This abnormality results in a heart shaped uterus rather than a pear-shaped one. With a deep indentation at the top, this uterus looks like a set of horns. One in 200 women may have this kind of condition.
Septate uterus
A muscular barrier or fibrous wall known as septum divides the uterus. The division may be partial (partial septate uterus) or complete (complete septate uterus) where it reaches the cervix. Partial septate is more common in women. Septate uterus may make it difficult for you to conceive.
Arcuate uterus
Arcuate uterus is almost like a normal uterus but it has a slight indentation or dip at the top of the uterus. It is a very common type of uterine abnormality and most of the times do not cause any problems during pregnancy.
Unicornuate uterus
In this uterine abnormality, a uterus is almost half the size of a normal uterus. There is only one fallopian tube present and the shape of the uterus appears like a single horn. This is a rare abnormality and 1 in 1000 women may have this condition.
Uterus didelphys
This condition results in two inner cavities with each cavity having its separate vagina and cervix. This rare abnormality with two cervixes and two vaginas may affect 1 in every 350 women.
Can You Get Pregnant With an Abnormal Uterus?
Getting pregnant is not difficult if you have an abnormal uterus. It majorly depends on the severity of your abnormality. If you have a mild abnormality in your uterus, you may enjoy a hassle-free pregnancy and childbirth. Many women come to know about their condition during a gynaecological exam or an ultrasound scan only. Thus, you can get pregnant even if you have an abnormal uterus.
How an Abnormal Uterus Affects Pregnant Women
The extent of your abnormality dictates the degree of complication. Following may happen:
Miscarriage – Certain uterus abnormalities such as septate uterus may cause miscarriage.
Early labour – In conditions where the uterus is not big enough to hold a baby, the condition may lead to premature labour.
Caesarean delivery – Where the uterus is of unusual shape and it becomes difficult to deliver a baby normally, a C-section may be needed.
Late miscarriage – A weak cervix resulting from some uterine abnormalities may lead to a late miscarriage.
Common Treatment of Uterine Abnormalities
Uterine abnormalities are generally diagnosed during an ultrasound scan, laparoscopy or physical examination. Once the abnormality is established, your doctor may advise you following:
You may be advised for a cervical cerclage (a stitch in the cervix) if there is a threat of preterm labour.
In case of a unicornuate uterus, the surgical removal of obstructed hemi-uterus can be done if the other side is functional.
Most cases of abnormalities that do not cause major complications and can be corrected by minimal surgical intervention. If the abnormality isn’t posing any pain or threat to your unborn child, your doctor may not require any treatment for the abnormality.
How to Manage Your Pregnancy with Abnormal Uterus
It is normal for you to feel anxious after knowing about abnormalities in uterus but you need stay calm and relaxed. If you notice any symptoms of uterine abnormalities or abnormal uterine bleeding like a bicornuate or unicornuate uterus, you should report to your health care practitioner immediately. Your doctor may advise an ultrasound to detect uterus abnormalities to know more about your condition and then suggest treatment for the same. Many uterine abnormalities and displacements can be treated with medicinal or surgical intervention for a healthy pregnancy. It is also important for you to attend all your antenatal appointments with your doctor to get an update on your condition. If any symptoms or signs of preterm labour are noticed, you must report it to your doctor or seek immediate medical help. Any history of miscarriage should also be intimated to avoid any complications.
Conclusion: Abnormality in your uterus during pregnancy is a matter of concern as it may affect your baby. It is quite common among woman and may lead to a complicated childbirth. Therefore, once you know about your abnormality, it is recommended to exercise caution during pregnancy and get the suggested medical help by your healthcare practitioner. Read more
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Breastfeeding is as natural as child birth and one of the most amazing and empowering miracles of mother nature.
The human body never ceases to amaze me, just when you think that you have peaked, it reveals an all new side.
My breastfeeding journey started on a rather rocky note, as Agastya was in NICU immediately post delivery and I had no idea what was in store for us. All the books and ante-natal classes had definitely made me realise the benefits of breastfeeding but reality seemed way too different.
After a day of not being able to feed my baby and he already having gotten the taste of formula, I felt like may be it ended for me even before it started.. I was clueless about things like breast engorgement or latching issues.
Having followed the principles of garbh sanskar and virtue baby for 9 months, I had taught my child to be courageous in the face of uncertainty and was surely not going to lose faith now. So we kept on trying and trying...despite so much pressure around to just give him top milk and make it convenient.
Also, the jappa maid kept telling me how I was not producing enough milk to satiate my "under weight" baby's hunger and how I was depriving him of a healthy life.
Well, to all those who didn't believe in us, we definitely didn't give up. My son is now one, and I exclusively breastfed him until 6 months of age, before starting on solids. I continue to do so till date.
Am sure every woman and every child has a different story and here on this platform we are not judging anyone for their choices but to highlight the fact that there is indeed very little spoken and known about this important facet of life and its nourishment. Breastfeeding is such an integral aspect of the whole process, yet such little importance is given to it.
The sleepless nights, the fear of being and sometimes just feeling so exposed, that vulnerability of feeding in public areas (with a stole or without), the frustration of being watched by someone or the other, the cuts, the bites, the soreness, mastitis...and everything under the sun that nobody ever told me about .well all this should have made me weak ...but I can without a doubt say..it made me much stronger ..and it helped me graduate from a tough woman to a tougher MOM.
One of the worst points was when I was attending a pre wedding ceremony in one of the top five star hotels in Delhi on a cold winter night. And hoping that I am dealing with one of the best in hospitality, I walked up to a female managers on duty to ask if they had a place where i could feed my baby. Well, I had to do it in the washroom, as they asked me to book a room for the night, if I wanted to do "something like that."
Breastfeeding is as natural as child birth and one of the most amazing and empowering miracles of mother nature...it has not only made me spend more time with my baby, but steal away those extra snuggles and smiles and connect with him at an all new level. It helped me trust my instincts as a mother and just know that he is safe as far as I am around.
I really wish we as a group of strong moms and caregivers can help bring about a change...so that no mom in future has to shy away from feeding her baby under societal pressures, and at least not for the lack of help. Read more
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Planks - Your Key To A Flat Tummy
Planking is key to a toned stomach and a fitter you. Though many women dread doing even a basic plank exercise, it's not as hard as it seems. Here's a step-by-step look to stay fit with this ultimate toning workout.
Planks are a comprehensive exercise for the entire body, focusing mainly on the abdomen, but also toning the arms, back, hips and glutes muscles. In fact, the plank can be regarded as one of the best ‘look-good’ exercises because it has an impact on all the muscles in the core, including the abs, oblique, back and hips.
What Is the Plank Position and How Do you Go About It
Step 1
Start your planking workout in a push-up position. The only difference here is that the elbows are bent and your weight is rested on your forearms. Your body should be in a straight line from shoulders to ankles. Brace up your core and hold the position for 60 seconds coupled with deep breathing.
Step 2
Continuing the basic plank exercise, lie on your left side keeping your knees straight. Prop up on your left elbow and forearm and raise your hips till you come to a straight line from ankles to hips. Contract your abs and breathe deeply, holding the position for 30 seconds.
Step 3
Take a side plank position with your left elbow below the shoulder. Contract your core and raise your right leg as high as possible, maintaining the correct plank position. Flex your foot with your toes pointing down. Lower your leg and repeat. Switch sides and repeat the workout with your left leg. ||
Step 4
Start with a push-up position, placing hands on the floor beneath the shoulders and keeping your arms straight. Bring your feet together, straighten up your legs and put your weight on your toes. Align your body in a straight line from ankles to head. Brace your abs and squeeze your glutes, maintaining the position for 30 seconds.
Step 5
Start with the same position as in step 4. Drop down your back and shoulder blades to form a straight line from your head to ankles. Lift your right hand and tap your left shoulder, making an effort to keep your hips straight while you do it. Repeat the planking fitness exercise with the left hand and right shoulder. Keep alternating for 30 seconds.
Step 6
In this step, again begin with a push-up position with your hands on the floor beneath your shoulders and arms stretched straight. Set your feet a bit wider than your shoulders, keeping your legs straight and your weight on your toes. Raise your right arm and point the thumb up. Hold for 10 seconds before switching over and performing with the left arm. Remember to keep still while doing the exercise.
This step-by-step plank position exercise for abs requires determination and perseverance on your part. Planks for women tone up the body, help you burn calories, improve posture and may even alleviate back pain. You can experiment with plank positions and stick to one that suits you best for the daily challenge. Get going ladies; you know you can!
*This article has been certified by Gold's Gym experts. Read more
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Things a New Mom Should Know About Breastfeeding
The joy of becoming a mother cannot be explained. The feeling of being a new mommy is hard to put into words. When you get to hold your baby and you are asked to feed her for the first time, it's an amazing feeling because that tiny little baby is going to have your milk as her first food.
Breast milk has that magic which no medication has for your baby. It helps in the brain development of the baby. Breastfeeding a baby can strengthen her immune system and protect her from various infections and allergies. Breastfeeding a baby can also make her smarter.
You should breastfeed your baby for the first six months of her life and even after that. This way, your baby will get all the nutrients required for her development. In the first 6 months, her only source of nutrition will be breastmilk. So as a mother, you should try to increase breast milk production by having some nutritional foods like fruits, jeera, vegetables, grains, garlic, etc. Plus you need to avoid certain foods or eat them in limited amounts as these foods can make your baby gassy and lead to colic. The foods you should avoid include beans, dairy products, spicy foods, etc.
I am a mother of a ten-and-a-half-month-old girl and I still breastfeed her. She takes my milk mostly at night and sometimes twice a day. I tend to avoid to breastfeed her during the day so that she learns to eat solids properly. I will suggest the same to all the mothers that after starting solid foods make sure to breastfeed your babies less during the day.
Being a new mother, you will have restless nights as you will have to wake up in the middle of the night to breastfeed your baby, but you know that breastfeeding is an amazing experience. It can strengthen your bond with your baby. So enjoy this phase and have a good time with your little ones.
Disclaimer: The views, opinions and positions (including content in any form) expressed within this post are those of the author alone. The accuracy, completeness and validity of any statements made within this article are not guaranteed. We accept no liability for any errors, omissions or representations. The responsibility for intellectual property rights of this content rests with the author and any liability with regards to infringement of intellectual property rights remains with him/her.
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Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
2 hours ago
Q. is it normal to have 2 dominant follicles in Right ovary? Today is my D8 and the size of both the follicles are 20x18mm and 19x18 mm Is it normal.
and left ovary follicles 12x18mm.and ET size 7.89
pls advice
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
2 hours ago
A. if it is induced one then there can be chances. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
POOJA KOTHARI has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
2 hours ago
Q. what should I eat for a healthy baby in my 3rd month of pregnancy.kindly suggest a healthy diet routine
POOJA KOTHARI
Mom of a 7 yr 1 m old boy
2 hours ago
A. Whole grains — like brown rice, millet, oatmeal, bulgur, and whole-wheat bread. Proteins — like lean meats and chicken, eggs, seafood, beans and lentils, nuts and seeds, and tofu. Low-fat or fat-free dairy — like milk, yogurt, cheese, lactose-free dairy, and fortified soy beverages (soy milk) or soy yogurt.
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
2 hours ago
Q. in which month of pregnancy we should start excercising for normal delivery
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
2 hours ago
A. no exercises vigorously only moderate walking ok. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
2 hours ago
Q. #asktheexpert
I am 28 weeks pregnant and feeling breathlessness and Always tired ... is this normal ?
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
2 hours ago
A. this cannot be normal always better to see the doctor once. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
Dr Vandan H Kumar has added a new answer
1 hour ago
Q. My 4 year baby have always complaint of abdomen pain.
Dr Vandan H Kumar
Paediatrician
1 hour ago
A. if the child is having abdominal pain give syrup colicaid or syrup cyclopam 5 ml to the child for now
then you have to meet the doctor to find the cause of abdominal pain because it can be either due to gas or due to worms or some other abdominal pathology or gastroenteritis, constipation, digestive issues.
in the meantime it is advisable to give only easily digestible food to the child and water andx buttermilk curd rice and dal.
can give poha upma daliya and fruits.
avoid milk products , packet foods and fried items and heavy diet.
you can continue anti-colicx medicines and your doctor may add antacids for the child for few days it will help in decreasing the gas as well as bloating.
shilpi Bhandari has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
29 mins ago
Q. lo laying placenta he koi problem tho ni hogi na or sahi pojicion me lane ke liya ky krna chahiye
shilpi Bhandari
Mom of 2 children
13 mins ago
A. hello deri it is very important that you should take care of your diet because there are high chances of the anemia and the bleeding and the possibilities are there that you will have the C section
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