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Broccoli for Baby - Benefits and Recipes
Broccoli has gained quite a lot of popularity since people became aware about its health benefits and nutritional value. It slowly made its place in various salads and recipes for health-conscious people as well as tons of other mainstream recipes too. However, while introducing vegetables to your baby, you may wonder if broccoli might be the right choice to go ahead with.
When can Babies Eat Broccoli?
On the outset, broccoli is generally avoided as the very first vegetable that a baby might consume. The digestive system of a baby takes time in getting used to external items. The right time to add broccoli in baby’s food is at the age of 10 months old or more. Broccoli might also cause gas in certain babies, so if your baby shows such signs, it is best to delay it further.
Nutritional Facts of Broccoli
The nutrients that a single cup of steamed broccoli contains are as follows:
Description
Quantity
Vitamin A
0.724 mg
Vitamin C
101.2 mg
Vitamin E
2.26 mg
Vitamin K
220 mg
Niacin
0.86 mg
Folate
168 mcg
Iron
5.5 mg
Selenium
5.7 mg
Sodium
64 mg
Calcium
62 mg
Magnesium
33 mg
Phosphorous
105 mg
Potassium
457 mg
Source: http://wholesomebabyfood.momtastic.com/broccolibabyfoodrecipes.htm
Zinc, manganese, and a few other vitamins are also present in smaller amounts.
Benefits of Broccoli for Babies
Here are some of the benefits of eating broccoli for babies.
1. Immunity Improvement
The greatest thing about broccoli is its tendency to provide a strong boost to the strength of the immunity system. Vitamin C is present in broccoli in pretty decent amounts. This not only is extremely crucial in strengthening the building blocks of the immune system but also supports the overall health of the baby and builds resistance to fight the onslaught of diseases.
2. Eyesight Development
Another constituent that is present in broccoli in a good amount is vitamin A. Along with the combination of beta-carotene, Vitamin A acts directly on making the eyesight of the baby better and sharper. These are further complemented by smaller B-complex vitamins and minerals such as phosphorous, which play a good role in keep the eyesight healthy.
3. Reducing Anaemia
Our blood vessels contain an important entity called as haemoglobin. The core function of haemoglobin is to transport oxygen to various parts of the body via the blood vessels. And the development of haemoglobin is completely dependent on the presence of iron, failing which a person is termed as anaemic. Broccoli contains iron as one of the core minerals that enrich the amount of it present in the body and boost haemoglobin development.
4. Treating Gastric Ulcers
To digest the food consumed, the stomach needs to produce an acid that helps break it down successfully for the intestine. If the acid production is uncontrolled, the resulting acidity can cause ulcers to form in the gastric portion of the body. In such a condition, a soup made from broccoli can provide much-needed relief to your baby from such ulcers.
5. Presence Of Antioxidants
Antioxidants are essential for the body to maintain a healthy balance of all constituents within itself. These also help in detoxing the body and take care of any metabolic free radicals, providing protection to the cells and tissues of the body. Broccoli is full of such antioxidants and its inclusion in the diet is highly recommended.
6. Reduce Constipation
For any kind of digestive or constipation problems, including fibres and stimulating bowel movement are great ways to take care of them both. Broccoli contains fibre which also contains properties of a natural laxative. This helps in absorbing extra moisture and flush out any impurities, stimulating the digestive process and keeping the system healthy.
7. Relief From Diarrhea
For small babies, diarrhoea can be extremely dangerous since it can cause accelerated dehydration and be fatal too. Dehydration doesn’t simply rob the body of water but also a good balance of salts and minerals that are necessary to stay healthy. Making broccoli soup and feeding it to your child during diarrhoea can help restore the amount of water, as well as the nutrition that may be lost through constant pooping.
How to Choose and Store Broccoli for Infants
While buying broccoli from the market, opt for the ones that have dark green or sage shades, with slightly purplish-green tinge in colour. Make sure that they are uniformly coloured and don’t have any anomalies. If there are any tiny yellow flowers or grey coloured portions, discard that broccoli.
At home, store it in an open bag in the vegetable section of the fridge. Avoid storing it for more than 4 days.
Precaution to Take when Giving Broccoli to Babies
Keep in mind the following things before giving broccoli to your baby:
During purchase, choose the broccoli that is heavy and is firm to feel. A heavy broccoli is a good indication of a healthy broccoli from within.
Check the stalks inside the broccoli for the presence of moisture. If moisture has accumulated inside it, the chances of infections are higher. If it is not evident on the outset, while cutting the broccoli, recheck for the presence of any moisture.
Always wash the broccoli thoroughly after cutting it. This will take care of any impurities or unwanted items present in it.
Never give raw broccoli to your child since it may have bacteria or other impurities present even after washing. It’s best to give boiled or steamed broccoli or any other recipe where the broccoli has been properly cooked.
How to Cook Broccoli for Babies
Cooking broccoli in order to make broccoli soup for babies is pretty straightforward. Make sure the broccoli is cut into tiny pieces and boil them properly with the soup. Once thick consistency is achieved and other ingredients are added, remember to strain all the broccoli prior to serving the soup to your baby.
Nutritious Broccoli Recipe for your Child
You can try these recipes to help make broccoli fun for kids.
1. Broccoli And Cheese Nuggets
Ingredients
Cooked, drained, and chopped broccoli
Breadcrumbs or baby cereal
Shredded cheddar cheese
A few eggs or vegetable puree
How To Cook
Prepare the oven by heating it to a temperature of 190 degrees.
Take a baking sheet and coat it properly with some olive oil.
Take a bowl and combine all the ingredients in it. Mix it properly. Some seasonings can be added here as well.
With the mixture properly ready, take some portion in your hand and shape it like a nugget. Place these on the baking tray. Repeat for the entire mixture.
Place the tray in the oven and bake for about 15 minutes. Pull the tray out, flip the nuggets, and bake for another 5-10 minutes.
The nuggets are ready to be served, making it great broccoli cheese baby food to be had any time.
2. Broccoli Carrot Puree
Ingredients
Broccoli
Peeled and diced carrots
How To Cook
Wash the broccoli properly in cold water.
Chop the broccoli along with the stems into tiny pieces. For a smoother puree, use only the florets.
Take a pan and add the broccoli along with diced carrots. Add some water to it. Alternatively, you could steam them together until they are soft.
Take them in a bowl and mash it together until they form a puree.
3. Cheese Broccoli Rice
Ingredients
Broccoli
Cooked brown rice
Shredded cheddar cheese
How To Cook
Wash the broccoli properly in cold water.
Chop the entire broccoli into tiny pieces. Put them in a steamer and steam until they become soft.
Take a bowl and mix the broccoli with rice. Place the bowl on a low flame and let it cook.
Add cheese to the bowl and stir it well. Cook it until the cheese has melted completely.
Remove the flame and mash the entire mixture together to a required consistency.
4. Broccoli Cream Soup
Ingredients
Broccoli
Olive oil
Chopped onions
Chicken broth
Oregano
Pepper
Milk with reduced fat
How To Cook
Take a large pan and add oil to it. Heat it on medium flame and add onions to it. Saute them until they soften.
Follow it up by adding broccoli, oregano, pepper, and broth all together. Stir it properly and bring it to a boil using medium-high flame.
Once boiled, reduce the flame to medium and let it cook until the broccoli softens.
Remove the flame and add milk to it. Stir it properly and pour it into a blender. Blend it all together to make it consistent. Heat it once again before serving.
5. Basic Broccoli Puree
Ingredients
Broccoli
How To Cook
Wash broccoli properly with cold water.
Chop it into small pieces.
Steam it until it softens. Blend it together to form a smooth puree.
Add water to if you want to make the consistency thinner if required.
FAQ's
1. Can I Buy Organic Broccoli For Baby?
Unlike general vegetables, the presence of pesticides or insecticides in broccoli is negligible in the organic ones. In case you can afford organic broccoli, you can definitely buy those for your baby.
2. Can I Use Frozen Broccoli For Baby?
Fresh broccoli is always better than frozen. However, if you are left with no other option, opt for frozen broccoli that is uncut, since you will require both stems and florets in your recipes.
3. Does Broccoli Cause Gas Problem In Babies?
Broccoli contains a specific sugar called raffinose that cannot be digested by adults as well. This usually causes gas in both children as well as grown-ups. However, as long as your baby can digest other food items pretty well, there is no reason to not give him broccoli.
The health benefits of broccoli are astounding. With multiple broccoli puree recipes for babies you can ensure those nutrients find their way into your baby’s body in the right manner. A balanced diet with the right vegetables can always be the best culinary choice for your baby.
Also Read: Oats for Babies Read more
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Bleeding after Miscarraige
A miscarriage is the loss of a pregnancy before the twentieth week. A miscarriage is no doubt a devastating event and heart-wrenching especially when you have been preparing yourself to welcome the new addition to the family. Unfortunately, but proven from research, 10%-20% of pregnancies end in miscarriages. While a miscarriage is common, it can be extremely painful and cause of grief for a mother, both physically and emotionally. The process of dealing with it involves a lot of mental and physical courage and well sought medical advice. It is completely normal to experience pain and bleeding after a miscarriage. But as every natural illness that affects the body, miscarriage is also a phenomenon that your body can deal with.
What Does Miscarriage Bleeding Look Like?
Vaginal bleeding is the most common sign of a miscarriage. Very light in colour, almost close to spotting and nothing more at times the bleeding can be much heavier than a normal period. These signs of miscarriage bleeding might last for a few days or even a few weeks. The bleeding could also be characterized by blood clots, either large ones or small ones or even discharge that looks like tissue. Continued bleeding after miscarriage could also be accompanied by cramping. You may experience pain in your abdomen, either light pain or heavy pain, almost alike contractions experience during labour. There have also been women who have had a miscarriage without any signs of it; they come to know about the death of the foetus during a routine ultrasound but have had no signs of bleeding to warn them.
How Long does the Bleeding Last after a Miscarriage?
The uterine mucosa which gets damaged, after a miscarriage, causes bleeding and abdominal pain. This bleeding generally lasts only for about two weeks. The severity of the bleeding could differ in women. It could be barely noticeable or severe, but the symptoms are often similar to those of a menstrual period. It is advisable to use pads to mitigate the risk of infection as tampons are not very hygienic to stem the bleeding. If you use more than one pad in an hour, then you need to immediately seek medical advice. Changing a pad every hour indicates the potential for haemorrhage. Severe bleeding may require surgery or a blood transfusion to stay healthy.
Miscarriage bleeding generally does not last for more than two weeks. Bleeding which lasts for more than two weeks calls for a visit to the doctor. It could mean an incomplete miscarriage that might need your tissue has to be expelled. The doctor will need to determine it is an incomplete miscarriage and suggest a surgical procedure to correct the problem.
Your periods will normally come back to their normal cycle within 3 weeks to 5 weeks after a miscarriage.
What is Abnormal Bleeding after Miscarriage?
Miscarriages bleeding that occurs for more than two weeks after a miscarriage occurs is considered abnormal and needs investigation. An incomplete miscarriage signifies that all of the tissue is not passed completely and requires medical intervention. Most bleeding tapers off, becomes lighter and scant quickly after a miscarriage. If you saturate a pad every hour, then it is a warning sign and should be investigated.
What is Incomplete Miscarriage?
When a baby dies in the uterus, the body does not always expel the foetus or placenta completely. In such a case, the miscarriage is called “incomplete”. The uterus cannot heal if there are some remains which need to be cleared surgically. An incomplete miscarriage presents the following signs and symptoms
Signs of Incomplete Miscarriage Bleeding
Dilated cervix
Heavy bleeding where you soak one pad in an hour
Presence of tissue in the uterus determined via an ultrasound
Severe cramping and pain
Water retention
Flu-like symptoms
The most common sign is heaving bleeding and cramping lasting for weeks which indicates that there is more tissue remaining in the uterus which needs to be expelled. An incomplete miscarriage usually requires surgery or prescribed medications to finish the process.
Complications of Post-Miscarriage Bleeding
There are some complications associated with miscarriage bleeding. Low red blood count, anaemia, is one of the most common complications. In very rare cases, a low blood count could call for blood transfusion. Any infection in the uterus which remains untreated could cause a scarred tissue inside the uterus and fallopian tube, causing interference in future pregnancies. Choriocarcinoma, a rare cause of bleeding after a miscarriage, is cancer that stems from a placental tissue or following a molar pregnancy, in which the placental tissue develops into an abnormal mass. This is generally treated via chemotherapy.
Treatment for Abnormal Bleeding after a Miscarriage
Treatments differ according to the type of miscarriage. In some cases, doctors suggest medications be administered orally or vaginally to help the miscarriage progress naturally. This will help the placental tissue pass faster within a couple of weeks. If a doctor diagnoses a piece of leftover tissue from the miscarriage in the uterus, he or she might perform a dilation and curettage, commonly referred to as D&C. The procedure is conducted under general anaesthesia, where the uterus is scraped of any tissue remains.
When to Call the Doctor?
Miscarriage bleeding can vary significantly from one woman to another for no particular reason. It is absolutely common and normal to bleed for a week or two after a miscarriage. Most cases, bleeding is accompanied by cramping. However, if you seem to bleed heavier than what you are comfortable with, you must get in touch with your doctor. If bleeding persists even after two weeks, then medical intervention must be sought as it could be mean an incomplete miscarriage where the tissue has not been expelled completely.
Management of Bleeding After Miscarriage
Once you have suffered a miscarriage, the bleeding will take a while to stop completely. It is best not to insert anything into your vagina, and sanitary pads are the best and most hygienic options to stem the flow of blood. Complete rest and lots of sleep are advised, and you could take over-the-counter painkillers to manage pain. The body must clear all the contents of the uterus, and any left-over pregnancy tissue could lead to an infection. You must rush to your doctor if you experience the following symptoms:
Bleeding that lasts longer than two weeks
Severe cramping and pain
Heavy bleeding than normal
Fever or flu-like symptoms
Foul smelling or unusual vaginal discharge
Managing Life Once the Bleeding Stops
A miscarriage is not just painful for the body but to the mind too. It will take you a while to recover from the loss. But it is not impossible to move forward, and there are ways to help you overcome the setback.
Physical Recovery:
There is no doubt that the uterus is under stress after a miscarriage. In the case of an incomplete miscarriage, the uterus has to undergo a surgical procedure, and it will take some time to heal. The primary step to recovery after any miscarriage is adequate rest. Many women heal faster and can conceive in a month after suffering a miscarriage. But in some cases, it could take a year. Let your body heal completely before you plan your next pregnancy.
2. Emotional Recovery:
The psychological impact of a miscarriage is undoubtedly far more than the physical impact. The period of bleeding after a miscarriage can drain you emotionally as you are constantly coming to terms with the loss. You are likely to feel a sense of guilt, frustration, anger or grief. The hormonal changes that the body is experiencing only aggravate the situation. Many women suffer from depression too. Try to seek help from your partner or husband and stay in constant touch with your loved ones. Try to join a support group or consult a counsellor if you feel depressed and unable to deal with the situation alone.
Miscarriages are not rare. It affects a majority of pregnant women and does cause some devastating effects on the mind. Take your time to deal with the loss and be a constant support to your partner while seeking his help too. It is not impossible to conceive after a miscarriage. Take your time to recover and start trying to get pregnant again, once you are ready physically and emotionally. Read more
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Labour pain is the end of pregnancy that signifies a new beginning. Ansh was born after 12 long hours of labour, but Aryan came out pretty faster (5 hours). The story of me being a superpower mother began after Aryan's birth. 4 hours post delivery, the nurse asked me if I needed help to take bath. Who wants to bathe when you have no energy left?! All I wanted to do was catch some sleep. In between the feeding schedules of Aryan, I could hardly get any sleep.
Then I saw my 3-year-old boy approaching my bed with starving eyes. He looked at me as if I was a stranger to him. I made some playful gestures and he jumped into my soiled bed. Who cares for all that when you meet your little being who has not eaten and not had a sip of water as he found you missing since morning?! 2 pm and he was eating his first meal of the day. All he wanted to do was look at me with strange eyes and hold my finger. He wanted me to walk out of the hospital with him. How to explain to this tiny tot that we have somebody who needs to be carried back with us. To show his rebelliousness, he threw his slippers and walked out.
The doctor came in and my little one was diagnosed with jaundice. Though it's physiological (normal) to have that immediately after birth, his bilirubin levels were found to be on the higher side. Doctor said, " We have to put the baby in the UV chamber for 24 hours, check his bilirubin levels and after that only discharge can be given". The baby was given a bath and put in the UV chamber. He cried right from the first bare touch of the glass. My mom had luckily brought my nephew's old rattle in her purse. She would make some noise, the baby would be quiet for a while and again start crying.
This went on for the longest 24 hours of my life. Ansh got pissed by his cries and decided not to enter the room. He roamed around the whole of the hospital with bare feet, maybe in search of a quiet corner. He would come to me only when he was hungry or for bum wash. Because of anxiety, the latter was happening more frequently and making me tired.
All's well that ends well. On the third day, we got discharged. I left Ansh's slippers and Aryan's rattle in the same room and left the hospital, exhausted.
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. Read more
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I spent six years of marriage, struggling to find a good job and yearning for a child. Felt deeply sad and lonely as my parents and friends lived far.
After appearing for a Govt. exam, God gifted me with news of carrying a baby. Soon after that, I cleared the exam and got the job!
She brought happiness and prosperity and meaning to my life. The days of sorrow were over. Starting from my pregnancy, every step of my life has been fantastic. She is the reason for that. Each day I felt her growing inside me, and it was the most beautiful feeling.
Every bit of pain was worth it to give her birth. She gave me a magical strength. I still wonder how a baby can fill our heart with so much love and happiness.
Watching her grow from Day 1, watching her cross every milestone beforehand, Alhamdulillah the experience was by far the best journey I had in my life. When she falls sick, it's unbearable. That's the point you know you are a separate person, but your hearts are one!
There is still one sad thing left in my heart. Every day when I part with her, when I go for work is heartbreaking. But in the evening, when we meet, she grabs me as if she got back what she was searching for. That's the best moment of my day. Even the tiniest thing she does adds joy. Now my daughter is 11 months old. She's stumbles but walks now. She has got two teeth and looks a bit like a rabbit. This journey has been a roller coaster ride! Being a mother is an empowering and enriching experience. I am blessed to have a daughter like her!
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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Ankita Mehta has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
4 hours ago
Q. is white discharge in 8th month normal?
Ankita Mehta
Mom of a 8 yr 7 m old girl
4 hours ago
A. hi
yes
but if it is too thick or clear like water,if there other symptoms like itching, irritation, redness,foul smell from vagina, please visit your gynecologist
Dr Vandan H Kumar has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
4 hours ago
Q. My son is 5 months old is suffering from cough..what to do?
Dr Vandan H Kumar
Paediatrician
3 hours ago
A. give nasal saline drops every few hourly to the child in the nasal cavity.
try to prevent temperature variations around the child
you can go for indirect steam inhalation which will again help in decreasing both cough and cold
continue the regular diet of the child
if there is no improvement in few days then meet your doctoru
for fever and pain give paracetamol.u
anti-cold medicines at this age have got side effects so can be given only after medical consultation.
POOJA KOTHARI has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 6 months
3 hours ago
Q. hi. in Feb my period was last and I did pregnancy test in March its positive results but my belly is not being bigger
POOJA KOTHARI
Mom of a 7 yr 1 m old boy
3 hours ago
A. Typically, your bump becomes noticeable during your second trimester. Between 16-20 weeks, your body will start showing your baby's growth. For some women, their bump may not be noticeable until the end of the second trimester and even into the third trimester. The second trimester starts in the fourth month.
Rashmi has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
1 hour ago
Q. I am 7 weeks pregnant. Before pregnancy I used to take medicine named Cyra 20 mg for acidity. Now since the day when I got to know that I am pregnant I am not taking any medicine for acidity but daily I am suffering from it. After having breakfast it starts. I am not eating any spicy food , oily food etc. Please help on this
Read moreRashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
1 hour ago
A. Start having chilled milk directly from the refrigerator that usually helps a lot in reducing down acidity and anyways when you take so much of medicine in the body gets addicted to it to check with your doctor if you need to do anything or any other medication would be friendly in cases of emergency
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Mom of a 1 yr 9 m old child
51 mins ago
Q. hi mam , my baby 1 year and 9 month old just now onwards stop breast feeding .pls suggest formula milk to my baby
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
41 mins ago
A. your baby is more than 1 year 9 months of age any milk including buffalo milk cows milk 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
Trying To Conceive
50 mins ago
Q. #AskTheExpert hello dr.
baby planning kar rhi kuch tips btayiye conceive ho jaye
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
42 mins ago
A. it's a natural process 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
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