Essential Nutrients for Infants: A Guide to Healthy Foods in India

Introduction

A well-balanced diet and nutrition are paramount for a child's proper growth and cognitive stimulation. During childhood, a child continuously transitions from one developmental phase to the other. One of the initial phases is infancy, which is the formal introduction of a child to the outer world. This is when a child truly begins to understand the difference between self and others.

Parents might witness physical movements and the inclination to explore things in the surroundings of their child. This is also a time when a child's nutritional requirements begin to grow as they start consuming solids. As a baby, the child is fully dependent upon breast milk for nutrition. However, an infant has more diverse nutritional requirements that parents need to take care of. This is why there is a greater need to develop a holistic meal plan for an infant.

Essential Nutrients for Infants

For parents trying to deeply understand the nutritional requirements of their infant, here is a deeper look into some of the most essential nutrients that you may give to your child regularly.

• Carbohydrates

As per The Role and requirements of digestible dietary carbohydrates in infants and toddlers published in 2012, it has been specified that carbohydrates are one of the major sources of energy for kids. An optimal amount of carbohydrates can help a child get through the day without getting exhausted. Other than providing energy to the body, carbohydrates can also help in better functioning of the brain and enhance cognition. However, parents must be careful about the portion size as a diet that is overly rich in carbohydrates may lead to weight gain among kids.

• Protein

As per the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health published in 2018, the routine can help in the height growth and muscle recovery of a child. Other than this, it can also play a key role in managing the weight of a child. Additionally, in the first two years of a child's life, protein may also have a significant impact on a child's brain development and ability to grasp new information from their surroundings. Low protein intake may lead to the weakening of muscles and obstruction in a child's height growth.

• Vitamins and Minerals

Both vitamins and minerals can help strengthen your child's immunity. Additionally, your child may also be able to observe significant changes in their bone health and dental health. As per the Archives of Disease in Childhood published in 2007, different types of vitamins have specific functions to perform. For example, vitamin C may help in better absorption of iron in your child's body. Similarly, vitamin D may help in better absorption of calcium which may make your child's bones and gums stronger. Similarly, various minerals like calcium and iron may support the proper development of the brain and bones, respectively.

• Fats

Generally, parents might think that fats are bad for a child's health. However, it is important to know that fats from junk food and in more than needed quantities may hamper your child's health. However, fats in optimal amounts can have a positive impact on your child's health. These are specifically beneficial for infants and kids with smaller appetites. Since a child engages in various activities throughout the day, there is a greater need for energy. However, because of low appetite, the child may not be able to eat enough food. This is when fats can be extremely resourceful and provide instant energy to kids even through small portions. As per Maternal and Child Nutrition published in 2011, fats such as omega-3 can also help in the efficient development of the brain.

Healthy Indian Foods for Kids

For parents on the lookout for some healthy Indian dishes for their infant, here are a few options that you may consider.

• Chana Masala

Chana masala is prepared from boiled chickpeas which makes it extremely soft and easy for infants to chew. To make it more flavorful, parents may add some subtle spices. The dish can be made more nutritious by adding an array of vegetables, like capsicum, onions, carrots, and other vegetables that one may like.

• Khichdi

Khichdi is a very well-balanced meal made from dal and rice. It is also extremely good for digestion and offers the perfect amount of nutrition to the child. Another great aspect of this dish is that despite being so satisfactory, it is not very heavy on the stomach. Parents may make it more nutritious by adding a source of protein and lots of vegetables.

• Sautéed Paneer

Paneer is soft and has a very creamy flavor. It can be effectively used to make delectable appetizers for your infant. You may simply sauté several vegetables like onions, carrots, and capsicum. Into these vegetables, you may add a bit of soya sauce and other sauces of your choice. Now, you may add the diced pieces of paneer and serve it to your child for a protein-rich meal.

Conclusion

By being mindful and making healthy choices for your child from an early age, you may start your child's journey towards nutrition on the right foot. It may help the child develop a strong foundation for making the right nutritional choices and leading a healthy life.