5 Grains That Are Essential For Your Growing Child’s Diet

Grains are part of the food group that will majorly supply all of that energy your little one needs. We get that the struggle to provide nutrition for kids is way too real, and so we’re here to help.

Super grains like quinoa and buckwheat are trending, but let’s be honest, they aren’t very pocket-friendly. Availability may also be a concern. We’re here to discuss those that are easy on the pocket and also packed with fibre, protein, vitamins and essential minerals!

Time to find out what these grains are, and how enriching they can be!

1. Finger Millet (Ragi), one of the Super Grains

Finger Millet, also known as ragi, is a super grain loaded with vitamins and important minerals. It is rich in calcium which is essential for bone development, dental health, and the overall growth of a child. Other nutrients include iron and Vitamin C that helps maintain haemoglobin levels.

We get it, once you know what’s good for your little one, only half the work is done. Finding every day child-friendly recipes is the difficult bit.

A great way to eat ragi is by adding sprouted ragi to your diet, it has numerous benefits, and it tastes amazing. Ragi porridge is a popular breakfast item when you have a baby at home, but if you have a toddler or an older child, ragi pancakes are all the rage (especially the ones with yummy berry toppings or a drizzle of melted chocolate!)

2. Foxtail Millet (Kangni)

Foxtail Millet or kangni is a super grain with an abundance of nutrients. An excellent addition to your baby’s diet, kangni has high protein and fibre content that helps with your baby’s growth. Foxtail millet is also a rich source of iron and calcium, and both of these minerals are crucial for strengthening your baby’s bones. You can add this super grain to your baby’s diet by making kangni khichdi or porridge and help your little one gain all of its benefits. With so many advantages, who wouldn’t want to add this wonder grain to their diet?

3. Barley (Jau)

A common breakfast cereal, barley is packed with various health benefits due to the presence of essential vitamins and minerals. Apart from being a rich source of fibre, barley also has magnesium, phosphorus, vitamin B1, manganese, and selenium. This super grain is particularly good for stabilising sugar levels and sustaining energy levels in kids.

You can include barley to your kid’s diet by adding it to soups, salads, stuffings, or you could even make a power-packed porridge for breakfast (cocoa nibs or chocolate chips can help make porridge more palatable for kids!).

4. Sorghum (Jowar)

Jowar is another super grain loaded with nutrients like protein, fibre, iron, magnesium, etc. These are integral for the growth and development of children. It helps improve bone density, heart health, digestion, and blood circulation. Jowar is most popularly consumed in the form of roti or bhakri and is a healthy alternative to refined flour.

5. Amaranth (Rajgira)

Most popularly consumed during the Navratri fasts, amaranth or rajgira is a gluten-free super grain that is rich in vitamins and minerals and also enriched with antioxidants that improve immunity. Minerals like calcium, iron, potassium, and potassium make this ancient grain incredibly beneficial. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that can protect your little one’s body against infections and injuries. So stock up on those rajgira chikkis and laddoos. Let your little one munch on them without any cause for concern.

With the super grains making a comeback, adding these grains to your family’s diet is a step towards a healthier lifestyle. Replace your everyday wheat and rice with these grains and see how your life transforms. Your kids won’t be able to resist the delicious dishes. It’s such a great way to get them to eat healthy!

With processed and fast food chains flourishing, everyone’s health is at stake and incorporating healthy foods in one’s diet has become crucial. Make sure to include these wonder grains in your child’s diet and develop the habit of eating healthy right from childhood.

Disclaimer: Watch out for food allergies and introduce new foods one at a time to your baby. Millets are a great addition to your baby’s diet because they are non-allergic and are particularly beneficial for kids who have food allergies.

For customized diet consultation for yourself and your child, visit our Dietetics Department or Book an Appointment.