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Eating Oranges during Pregnancy - How Safe Is It?
Fresh fruits and vegetables are an integral part of a pregnant woman's diet. When a woman is pregnant, she should be careful about her eating habits as one wrong food can lead to severe problems. If you are pregnant for the first time, naturally, you will think twice before eating anything. While pregnant, you might wonder whether you can eat citrus fruits like oranges or not. Oranges are a rich source of Vitamin C and eating them can instantly cheer you up. The sweet and tangy flavour of oranges can even provide you some respite from morning sickness. But is eating oranges during pregnancy really safe? Find out!
Is it Safe to Eat Oranges During Pregnancy?
Oranges are definitely one of the best fruits to include in your pregnancy diet. You should eat the whole fruit to derive the maximum benefits. You can also drink freshly squeezed orange juice. However, avoid drinking orange juice available in tetra packs as it contains preservatives that may not agree with your system. You should also avoid drinking sold by street vendors. To get maximum benefits, eat the whole fruit or drink orange juice prepared at home.
Health Benefits of Eating Oranges During Pregnancy
Oranges are rich in Vitamin C, iron, zinc and folic acid. Eating oranges during pregnancy can improve your immune function, strengthen his brain development, and also provide benefits to the skin tone. Consumption of oranges during the first trimester of pregnancy is highly recommended as it aids in the development of the brain of the foetus. Read on to find out some of the health benefits of eating oranges in pregnancy.
1. It helps strengthen the immune system.
Oranges are rich in Vitamin C which can strengthen the immune system of the woman and the baby. Oranges also release iron and zinc which are vital for the immune system. Eating oranges can help lower the risk of allergies while pregnant. It can also support the development of cartilage, tissues, blood vessels, and bones in babies.
2. It can help develop the brain of the baby.
Oranges are a good source of Vitamin B6 and folic acid. Eating oranges while pregnant will help develop your baby's brain and prevent neural tube defects, which are known to cause brain and spinal cord abnormalities in a baby. The folate content in oranges can also help in the formation of blood cells, growth of new tissues and in the development of a healthy placenta. However, excess folate intake may lead to high birth weight in a baby.
3. It can help prevent constipation.
Oranges are rich in soluble and insoluble fibre and cellulose which can help regularise bowel movement and cure constipation, a common problem in pregnancy. The fibre content in them can also provide relief from stomach issues and bloating.
4. It can help control blood pressure levels.
The high potassium content in oranges can help regulate blood pressure levels in pregnant mothers and provide relief from hypertension.
5. It can keep you hydrated.
In addition to contributing to the daily fluid intake, oranges provide sodium and potassium to maintain the balance of fluid levels in the body. With 88% water content, oranges help with water balance and hydration in the body.
6. It can help purify the kidneys.
With a burden on the urogenital system, pregnant women are susceptible to kidney-related ailments. It is important for the kidney to function properly to get rid of the toxins in the body. Eating oranges can help cleanse the kidneys and the bladder. Oranges increase the pH value of urine, thereby increasing citric excretion from the body and serving as a remedy for kidney stones.
7. It can help strengthen the heart.
Pregnant women have an increased load on the heart and respiratory system which gets broken down due to foetal development. The potassium levels in oranges help to rebuild and strengthen the blood vessels and heart. They supply vital essentials which keep the circulatory and respiratory system strong.
8. It can benefit your skin.
Oranges are powerful antioxidants; eating them can have a soothing effect on the skin keeping it taut and firm and supplying enough moisture to prevent acne.
How Many Oranges Can You Eat While Pregnant?
A daily dosage of 85 milligrams of Vitamin C is recommended for pregnant women. This requirement can be met by consuming three oranges daily or other foods rich in Vitamin C. However, if you eat oranges along with other foods, make sure you also consider the quantity of Vitamin C present in other foods that you consume during the day. Keep in mind that your daily intake does not exceed the recommended intake as oranges could lead to acidity. If you eat other Vitamin-C rich foods, make sure you consume oranges in moderate amounts. Consult your doctor regarding the quantity of oranges to include in your diet.
What Is the Best Time to Consume Oranges?
Oranges can be consumed anytime during the day, even on an empty stomach. There is no restriction on when or how you include them in your diet.
Drinking Orange Juice During Pregnancy
Pasteurized orange juice without any additives and preservatives is a great option to include in daily pregnancy diet. You can have up to two glasses of orange juice daily. Rich in calcium, pasteurized orange juice can help strengthen the bones. Fortified orange juice is a good substitute for milk if you are lactose-intolerant and can help cure morning sickness. You could also squeeze juice from fresh oranges and enjoy a fresh drink. But try not to add too much sugar as it could increase your glucose levels.
Are There Any Side Effects of Eating Oranges During Pregnancy?
Oranges taste delicious and can offer a lot of benefits during pregnancy, however, when consumed in excess, they can lead to it can lead to some unwanted complications.
The high content of citric acid could lead to a sore throat and also erode the teeth enamel.
The fibre content may lead to abdominal cramps and loose motion if consumed in excess.
Ripe oranges have sugar in them and could lead to gestational diabetes.
As oranges are acidic in nature, eating them in excess could cause heartburn in a pregnant woman suffering from gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Excess of Vitamin C in the body could lead to preterm labour.
Tips to Include Oranges in your Diet
If you love eating oranges, know how to eat them the right way during pregnancy. Here are a few tips to help you include oranges in your diet.
Slice some oranges and it to your regular bowl of salad.
Mix it with other fruits and make a fruit salad.
Peel the fruit and blend it in a juicer to enjoy a thick and pulpy glass of orange juice.
Sprinkle some brown sugar on orange slices and microwave it. Enjoy the dish as a dessert.
FAQs
1. Are Orange Peels Safe for Pregnant Women?
Well, the peel is not meant to be thrown! The peel is what contains the maximum amount of Vitamin C than the flesh and is loaded with antioxidants with anti-inflammatory properties. Grate a teaspoon of the orange rind and toss it in your salads, yoghurt, or porridge to get the maximum benefits from this tasty fruit.
2. What Will Happen If You Consume Orange Seeds?
Orange seeds are not known to cause any harm during pregnancy. But if you consume a large seed by mistake, you can choke on it. Try to pick small oranges like the satsumas or tangerines which have very tiny seeds and are easy to peel.
Oranges can offer numerous benefits to a pregnant woman. But if you are planning to include them in your regular diet, it is recommended that you consult your doctor first. If your doctor gives it a go-ahead, eat them in moderation. You can also eat them post-pregnancy as they are a great fruit to add to a post-pregnancy diet. The low-fate content and glycaemic index of oranges can help you get back into shape post-delivery. It also has properties that nourish the skin and prevent premature ageing. Keep snacking on this loved fruit for a wholesome nutrition to provide your body.
Also Read:
Eating Jamun during Pregnancy
Consuming Banana in Pregnancy
Eating Apples while Pregnant
Consuming Pineapple when Pregnant Read more
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Flu in Babies - Causes, Symptoms, and Prevention
Getting the flu is a common ailment that affects babies of all ages. Though it is not something to stress over, it must also not be ignored. The care of a sick child will vary depending on their age and the extent of illness. Since the flu appears suddenly and can last for a few days, it helps to recognise the symptoms and know how to deal with them. Here is all you need to know about flu in babies.
Video: Flu in Babies – Causes, Symptoms, and Prevention
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R_d2BXRSjok
What is Flu?
Influenza or flu is a viral infection afflicting the nose, throat, and lungs, and can make babies quite sick. There are different types of influenza viruses. Every year, there are some which are more prevalent than others. Babies are vulnerable to the flu, and it is important to monitor your baby’s condition closely till he or she recovers fully.
How Common is the Flu in Infants?
It is very common for babies and young children to contract the flu. But it can be scary because they are at a higher risk of developing complications such as pneumonia, bacterial infection, and sepsis. Children under the age of five, and especially those aged two or less, are more prone to such complications and may have to be hospitalised.
Causes of Flu in Infants
Influenza viruses lead to the flu. There are three main types - Types A and B which lead to the annual outbreaks and Type C which can result in mild, random cases. These viruses are spread through coughing and sneezing by infected people. Your baby might breathe in these infected droplets through the nose or mouth and develop the flu over the next four days. Schools, daycare centres, playgroups, and crowded places are where the flu spreads the quickest.
Flu Symptoms in Babies
The first two to three days of the flu are the worst. Your baby may display one or more of the following signs and symptoms:
1. Typical Symptoms:
Feeling feverish
Chills and shaking
A high grade fever with temperatures that touch 104°F
Fatigue or feeling extremely tired
Headache and/or muscle aches, body aches
Runny or stuffy nose
Sore throat
Dry cough that doesn’t go away
Vomiting or diarrhoea
2. Serious Symptoms:
If your baby is under 12 months and shows any of the following symptoms, it is best to consult with your doctor immediately:
A fever of 104°F or higher in a baby of under three months
Fever for over 24 hours
A cough that does not get better even after a week
The fever rises above 104°F repeatedly
Breathing problems
Bluish skin colour
Is There Any Test for the Baby Flu?
Assessing the symptoms and the clinical judgment of a doctor is the preferred method of diagnosing the flu. There are a number of flu tests available, but these are usually used to test for specific types of flu.
Treatment
Treatment of your child will be suggested by the doctor and can involve flu medicine for infants as well as sufficient rest and hydration. The medications can take up to 72 hours to work. Babies who are aged two or under may have to be hospitalized.
Flu Vaccine for Babies
Babies over six months of age can be vaccinated every year at the start of flu season. While administering the influenza vaccine for babies, it is important that parents and all caregivers of the child also get vaccinated.
How Long Does the Recovery Take?
Flu symptoms can last for a week but in some instances, it can take up to two weeks for a full recovery.
Prevention
Getting your baby vaccinated and practising good hygiene are ways in which you can keep the flu at bay. Ensure your baby’s hands are washed with soap and water regularly. Try to keep your baby away from people who are sick and make sure to sanitise toys and household surfaces regularly.
How Can You Make Your Baby Comfortable?
Ensuring that your child is comfortable when sick should be your priority.
Adequate rest is essential, so let your baby sleep whenever he or she wants to nap. Avoid too much excitement and ensure quiet activities.
Give your baby a lot of fluids to prevent dehydration. Soups, broths, juices, and applesauce are just some of the things to offer your baby.
You can administer pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen to your child to lessen the fever after consulting with your doctor.
Conclusion
By being prepared with information about the flu and how it affects babies, you can nurture your baby back to health with ease. Learning to spot flu symptoms, giving your child the appropriate treatment, and taking preventive measures to keep flu at bay can go a long way in ensuring your peace of mind.
Disclaimer
Each baby is different as far as development goes and this information is just a guide and not a substitute for medical advice from a qualified professional. Read more
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Cluster Feeding - Reasons And Solutions
Cluster feeding, also known as bunch feeding is when babies frequently feed at certain times of the day and go for long periods between each feed at other times. It is common among newborn babies and often occurs in the evenings. First-time mothers can be caught off guard by cluster feeds and think they may not be producing sufficient milk. It helps to know that cluster feeding is totally natural in most babies up to six months of age.
What is Cluster Feeding?
Cluster feeding is the term used to describe periods during a baby’s development when feeds are closely spaced together at certain times of the day. A cluster-feeding baby feeds at intervals of a few hours between each feed for most of the day, and then suddenly shifts to a pattern of feeding continuously for hours with each feed spaced closely together. Baby cluster feeding often occurs during evening hours and is common with younger babies.
When can you Expect Cluster Feeding?
Cluster feeding can take place at any point in the life of an infant, and typically, the first instance occurs shortly after birth. These closely timed feeds stimulate the breasts to produce more milk to satisfy the baby’s growing appetite and need for nourishment. As they develop they go through periods of growth spurts and cluster feed during each one. Typically one can be expected around 10-12 days and then again by three months and so on. Cluster feeding doesn’t last forever and usually ends by the time the baby reaches six months of age.
Is it Natural?
Cluster feeding can seem never-ending, and with your baby fussily feeding frequently, it’s easy to think that there may not be enough milk or that something might be wrong. However, cluster feeding is completely normal, and most babies go through that phase in the early months.
Does it Mean that your Baby Needs More Milk than you Can Supply?
It is important to remember that cluster feeding does not reflect a low milk supply. It is a natural process by which the cluster feeding newborn prompts an increase in the milk supply by your breasts and should be allowed to happen. If you supplement breastmilk with formula, your body misses out on the cues that your baby needs more milk. This leads to your body not producing enough milk to sufficiently feed your growing baby, and that becomes a self-reinforcing loop with you ending up having to continue supplementation. A good indicator that your baby is getting enough milk is plenty of wet and dirty nappies.
What are the Causes of Cluster Feeding?
The exact cause for cluster feeding is uncertain, but health professionals speculate the purpose could be to ramp up the mother’s milk supply. Noteworthy speculated causes are as follows:
Growth Spurts
A growth spurt demands more nourishment as the baby’s body is working hard at growing rapidly. This means they would need all the necessary nutrients in higher quantities which makes them feed more often.
Developmental Milestones
Babies go through a number of development milestones during the first six months of their lives. During these changes, their bodies require more nutrition and feeding and may also serve as a self-soothing method. Since it is comforting, babies may seek it more around these times.
Increased Milk Supply
Cluster feeding boosts milk supply by the breasts. As the babies feed more, your body responds by producing more milk. Some moms also initiate cluster feeding as a way to increase milk production.
Help Baby Sleep Better
Although there is little evidence to suggest that it works, some mothers initiate cluster feeding to improve the baby’s sleep. This trick may work for some of the babies.
When does Cluster Feeding end?
Cluster feeding often occurs in a bunch. That is, the baby feeds more frequently for a few hours in a day, normally during the evenings. A typical cluster feeding phase can last up to 48 hours and sometimes less.
How to Cope with Cluster Feeding?
Here are a few ways to cope when you have an infant cluster feeding:
1. Eat Well And Stay Hydrated
To produce the milk needed to keep up with your baby’s demands, your body needs plenty of fuel. So make small, regular meals a priority and drink lots of water. Some nutritional snacks such as hummus and whole-wheat crackers, Almonds, Apple with peanut butter etc., can save you from exhaustion.
2. Take A Nap When You Can
Feeding your baby for hours on end, especially at night is exhausting, and skipping sleep can only make it worse. So while it may be tempting to engage in other things in the little time you get when your baby is sleeping, it is better to use that opportunity to get some shut-eye.
3. Accept The Situation
Try soothing your baby by other methods such as holding them or walking with them outside. However, if the change in feeding has come about abruptly, it’s most likely a cluster feeding episode. Do not fight the feedings and it’s best to feed them as much as they need.
4. Get Comfortable
When you have a cluster feeding newborn who feeds for long hours, you will most often be stuck in a place for a while. So plan ahead and have all your magazines, books, remotes, phone or tablet at arm’s length to keep yourself entertained.
5. Join A Support Group
Talking to other moms about your feelings and frustrations can help your feelings of loneliness. Discussing helpful tips and techniques is valuable support during times of fussy feedings.
6. Don’t Take It Personally
An endlessly fussy baby on a cluster feeding episode can make you feel inadequate about yourself. So don’t beat yourself up. Understand that it’s totally natural and it doesn’t mean that you’re doing anything wrong.
7. Get Some Help
Be it your mom of a close friend who you’re comfortable with; a breastfeeding partner can save you some effort. Any willing volunteer who can spend time with you on entertaining conversations and get you snacks or drinks or help with housework and errands can be a blessing.
8. Wear Your Baby
If your baby’s cluster feeding episode is making it difficult to stay away or relax, then wear your baby. Buy a sling or a baby carrier so you can wear them around the house. This helps in letting them feed when they want while you get other things done.
When to Consult a Doctor?
While bunch feeding is normal, there are times when it is a good idea to see your doctor. If the baby feeds for more than an hour at a time or if the cluster feed lasts for more than two days, consult the doctor. It could be a sign that your milk production is not keeping up with what the baby needs.
Although it can be exhausting, cluster feeding is completely normal and temporary. You can also try to accept and enjoy the long hours of snuggling with your baby while the phase lasts.
Also Read:
Bottle Feeding Advantages and Disadvantages
Cup Feeding Your Baby: Benefits and Drawbacks
Dream Feeding a Baby Read more
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Cardio for Weight Loss - Easy Exercises to Burn Fat
Are you panting hard only after walking a few steps? Are you feeling tired after climbing the floor? It indicates that your breathing process needs a boost and maybe need to shed some fat, then cardio is the best bet. Patience and perseverance can get you there. Only you have to get up early or find a little time every day which you can devote to your well-being. Start with walking to your office, or riding a bicycle, if possible. Take the stairs instead of elevators. Bring in small changes and see the compound effect it leaves on your body. To top it, you can follow a diet plan.
How Does Cardio Help You Lose Weight?
Calorie deficit in the body can lead to weight loss, which is why burning more calories is essential. Cardio can help you get there. These exercises control your metabolism and spur it for significant impacts. And if you want cardio to work effectively for weight loss, then you should also consider a diet chart.
1. It Helps Burn More Calories
Boosting your heart rate through cardio means that the heart will have to pump more blood. This requires the burning of calories. The more intense the cardio becomes, the more calories you shed. For example, brisk walking for 30 minutes for a 150 lb guy can burn 150 calories.
2. It Improves the Metabolism
A slight change in the intensity can deliver unprecedented results. If you run faster, climb hills, or jump faster, then it will accelerate your metabolism. Doing any activity or exercises with increased resistance need more energy that the body receives from burning fat, the reason behind rising metabolism.
3. It Increases the Calorie Deficit
If you are doing intense cardio exercises, you don’t have to put great efforts into your dietary plans then. Only a few tweaks such as controlling fat and carbohydrate intake would work. Just remember, you don’t have to compensate the burnt calories by eating more after the workout session.
4. It’s Better than Strength Training
Strength training puts pressure on muscles from which muscles need time to recover by relaxing. But cardio can be done often, almost every day. It does not strain your muscles and chances of getting injured are very less.
What Are the Various Types of Cardio Activities That Help in Weight Loss?
Cardio can do wonders if you practise on a regular basis. There are some exercises that are better than the rest. But activities can work more efficiently as they can be a part of the regular routine. Include a few like walking, jogging, and swimming as a starter.
1. Whole Body Activities
Exercises that involve both the upper and lower part of the body can have a comprehensive impact on your well-being. These activities can help you burn more calories by propelling the heartbeat rate.
2. Impact Activities
Impact activities such as walking at a brisk pace can have more influence on your metabolism than swimming or cycling. Higher metabolism means better chances of losing calories.
3. High-impact Activities
Activities like jumping or running can have more impact than walking. These high-impact exercises increase the heart rate and the metabolism rate considerably and influence calorie burning capacities more than impact activities.
Effective Cardio Weight Loss Exercises to Try
There are several exercises that can impact the body by boosting blood circulation. You don’t have to go to a gym to do these exercises. Some of these exercises can be performed at home. So, find some time and start.
1. Walking
The simplest way to burn calories and lose weight is by walking. Walking is low-impact cardio which anyone can do. A moderate pace can work well to maintain a better weight-height ratio for you.
Duration
Walk this for at least an hour.
Calories Burnt
Expect to lose 300-400 calories.
2. Climbing Stairs
One of the best cardio exercises for quick weight loss, climbing stairs can help you lose your weight faster. You can climb stair at your home. Climb stair for half an hour or so.
Duration
Climb stair for at least 10 minutes then gradually increase the time.
Calories Burnt
You would lose around 1000 calories.
3. Kettlebells
A kettlebell is a cannonball-shaped weight using which you can integrate strength to your cardio. It is one of the intense workouts for weight loss which can burn up to 20 calories per minute.
Duration
Do it for 10 minutes every day.
Calories Burnt
Expect to lose around 200 calories per session.
4. Jumping Rope
It is one of the high-impact cardio workouts that improve bone density, strengthens the legs, and ensures a healthy heart. The exercise is also known as a plyometric workout where both the feet stay off the ground. Jumping ropes can help you burn calories real fast.
Duration
Do this workout for an hour.
Calories Burnt
Jumping rope for an hour can help you lose around 600 calories.
5. High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT)
High-intensity workouts involve short bursts of intense exercise alternated with a low-intensity recovery period. You can do High-intensity workout for 20-30 seconds at a stretch with only a 10 seconds break. This will make you sweat fiercely and make you breathe through your mouth.
Duration
Extend the workout to 20 minutes.
Calories Burnt
Expect to lose around 200 calories in one session.
6. Rowing
If you like the gentle breeze around a waterbody, then rowing can be a good exercise for you. This workout is not just for the upper body as many may find. The entire body feels charged up and the heart rate increases. The exercise is paired with strength training and can help you burn fat in very less time.
Duration
Do this for an hour.
Calories Burnt
Expect to burn 500-600 calories in an hour.
7. Cycling
Go back to being a kid when you used to hop on your cycle and roam around carelessly. Cycling is an effective way to lose some calories. The exercise can help improve your heart rate, strengthen your leg muscles, and help you shed calories faster.
Duration
Pedal around for at least 45 minutes regularly.
Calories Burnt
Expect to lose around 400-600 calories.
8. Elliptical
This cardio workout will require a machine. You will have to step on an elliptical machine that facilitates cardiovascular training but reduces the pressure on the knees and hips during an exercise session. The impact on the body is less, still, it is a very good exercise that can burn 500-600 calories in an hour for a person of around 80 kgs. If you increase the intensity, speed, and resistance, then you can expect better results.
Duration
Do it for 30 minutes per day. 5 days a week or a total of 300 minutes is enough.
Calories Burnt
Expect to lose around 300 calories in one session.
You can check out the chart before deciding the exercise you want to start.
Exercise (per hour)
Calories Burnt
Step Aerobics
325
Stationary Bike
300
Swimming
200
Walking 4mph
150
Running 5mph
270
Lawn mowing with a push mower
200
How to Start a Cardio Programme - Tips for Beginners
If you have not exercised before and are planning to start a cardio programme, then you should keep a few things in mind.
Choose one activity to start with, then gradually increase the speed to enter the high-impact cardio zone. Among the high-impact cardiovascular exercises, running and climbing hills are very effective.
Start with walking thrice a week at a moderate pace. This is one of the easiest cardiovascular exercises that anyone can do anytime. This is one that can be deemed as a good cardio workout to lose weight.
In the beginning, keep the time limited. Do not exercise for an hour or so. Start by exercising for 10 minutes or 20 minutes, then increase the time.
Increase the rate to 30 to 45 minutes at a single stretch after a week.
With your body getting accustomed to the training, try interval exercises to increase endurance and shed more calories in quick time.
As you get a hang of these exercises, try doing cardio for 5 days a week and try to mix and match to increase output.
FAQs
Cardio workout is effective to put away the kilos you have gained while binge eating and drinking or sitting long hours in your office. These exercises will make you feel rejuvenated and your breathing would become better. Some of the intense cardio workouts for weight loss can tone the entire body as well.
1. What is the Best Cardio to Get a Flat Stomach?
There are some excellent intense cardio workouts for weight loss. Try skipping rope, cycling, jogging, swimming, and circuit training. Most experts consider that the above mentioned cardio workout can help you lose weight and you can have a flat stomach.
2. Is It Okay to Do Cardio Every Day for Weight Loss?
Cardio workouts boost your stamina, muscles, blood circulation, and can help you lose weight. Doing moderate to intense cardio every week with a combination of strengthening activities twice a week should work fine. Whether you should do it every day or not for losing weight really depends on the calories you consume, your exercise intensity, metabolism, age, gender, fitness level, body fat percentage, and exercise schedule.
Cardio can help you lose weight and stay healthy. So, if you want to start with cardio, go ahead. Get up and get going. See the change you can bring to your body and to your life. A few minutes is all you require to get back in the shape that you have always desired.
Also Read:
How to Lose Weight Without Diet or Exercise
Best Fat Burning Foods for a Weight Loss
How to Lose Weight Fast Read more
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Is Your Child Fasting This Ramadan? 5 Nutritional Tips to Follow + Child-friendly Recipes Inside!
Are your kids fasting this Ramadan? Here is what you need to know about maintaining his health while he fasts!
The holy month of Ramadan calls for a fast that lasts from dawn to sunset - mainly from food items and sexual activity - during the whole month. However, this rule differs when it comes to children - it is not mandatory for them to fast up until they reach the age of maturity, although some kids may express a desire to undertake a fast when they see their parents and older siblings doing so.
So how can you ensure that your little one is staying healthy as he begins to fast? Lack of adequate nutrition during his growing days can adversely affect the child - which is why it is important for you to follow these tips, to make sure that your child enjoys his Ramadan rituals!
5 Important Tips for Kids while Fasting During Ramadan
Here are a few things to keep in mind if your little one wants to observe a fast for Ramadan.
1. Take It Slow
It is actually recommended that kids indulge in gradual fasting so that their bodies can get used to going long hours without food once they’re much older.
If your child is under the age of ten, it is best not to extend the fasting window to more than a couple of hours - say from breakfast to lunch.By introducing them to fasting for short intervals and gradually increasing the length of window, their bodies will be able to adjust better to going without food.
2. Feed Them These Foods for the First Meal of the Day...
The first meal before undertaking the fast for the day, Suhoor, needs to cater to the needs of the child, so that he can keep up his energy levels for the time that he is fasting. It should also help to keep thirst at bay, and make the digestive process efficient. The meal should include a combination of nutrients such as complex carbohydrates, protein, and fibre - eggs, bread, cheese, dates and other dried fruits, fresh fruits, yoghurt, and milk can be your go-to options.
3. ...and These for Iftar...
When it is time to break the fast, traditional ways are the healthiest. 2 dates, followed by a glass of water to start it off, before tucking into the delicious meals that await. Plenty of salads and fruits need to be included in their diet to make up for the lack of enough hydration during the day - and needless to say, they are packed with plenty of essential nutrients.
4. ...and These in Between Suhoor and Iftar!
Water, water, and water! Hydration is of absolute importance during the time of fast for kids. Hydrating fruits, juices, milkshakes, and plenty of water is required not just to quench thirst, but also keep hunger pangs away.
5. Make Sure That Your Kids Avoid These Foods and Habits
Certain types of foods can make your child thirstier than usual and drain him of energy. Also, a sudden change in eating habits is bound to upset his digestive system. Ensure that your child stays clear of salty, fried, or fatty foods that can increase his thirst. Similarly, overeating at Iftar is not a good idea, because it will be too much for his stomach to handle at a time -
instead of letting them eat a heavy meal all at once, split it into two meals, so that it doesn’t overburdern their digestive system all of a sudden; spare the yummy cutlets, sandwiches, and rice for later. Sweets after a fast can cause a fluctuation in blood-sugar levels and leave him craving for more; for this, wait for 2 to 3 hours after Iftar to give him any sweets at all. It is also important to regulate his physical activities, because putting in too much energy into his activities at school or home can tire him out easier.
5 Recipes for Kids This Ramadan
1. Suji Kheer
Made in less than 10 minutes, this dish is easy to digest and makes for a delicious treat for kids and adults!
2. Macaroni Upma
Healthy, delicious, and colourful - your kids are going to love this treat!
3. Fruit-and-Nut Bars
A much healthier snacking option than processed sweets with low levels of nutrients - this is the best way to get your kids to fall in love with healthy food.
4. Hummus Dip
An ever-favourite dip that doubles as a healthy accompaniment to a meal! Hummus is the perfect side-dish for your little ones to slather his bread with; add a couple of veggies on the side for more nutritional value.
5. Yoghurt and Cheese Sandwiches
Perfect to fill his tummy and keep him happy too!
This beautiful season, keep your little one happy and healthy with these tips - and watch him learn and enjoy Ramadan more! Ramadan Kareem to all!
If you have any more yummy recipes that your kids absolutely love, you can contribute to our recipes section! Read more
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
6 hours ago
Q. ma lmp 28.9.2023 edd date 5.7.2024 ma age 25.7.1999 ma beby boy or girl plsss tell me mam
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
6 hours ago
A. be not possible to tell. 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. Minal Acharya has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 5 months
5 hours ago
Q. Hii...., Is it safe to eat jackfruit in 4th month of pregnancy, daily 2 ...
Dr. Minal Acharya
Nutritionist
5 hours ago
A. dear mam, you can eat jackfruit during the 4th month of pregnancy. there is no problem in having it. you can eat all types of seasonal vegetables and fruits even green leafy vegetables.
shahin has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 2 months
4 hours ago
Q. is that positive result??? my Due date is tommoro I am having vomitting and nausea and back pain etc please reply asap
shahin
Mom of a 6 m old boy
3 hours ago
A. yes
Dr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
4 hours ago
Q. Hi I'm in 23weeks pregnancy
my afi is 26 I have no diabetes or any other issues
is that risky ? what to do for making normal delivery possible
Dr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant
Ayurvedic Gynaecologist
3 hours ago
A. yes AFI level is very high and yes you need to be very careful to have regular follow up with your doctor take the precautions advised by your doctor and regularly keep a watch on baby movements
Dr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
3 hours ago
Q. nasal congestion during 9th week pregnancy is normal or something serious?
Dr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant
Ayurvedic Gynaecologist
3 hours ago
A. it's ok . take steam twice daily or you can use nasal drops
You should have proper consultation with your treating doctor , as some examination or investigations may be needful, so that proper medications can be given And the treatment can be done very properly.
Rashmi has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 5 months
2 hours ago
Q. Is there any issue with this test
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
2 hours ago
A. You have not given any details about us to what test are you talking about or anything associated with that for that matter can you please repost your question with all the necessary details required to understand your question as accordingly I can assist you on that
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