Spinach is a super food and commonly called as ‘Palak‘ in Hindi, ‘soppu’ in Kannada, ‘Cheera’ in Malayalam, ‘Koora’ in Telugu and ‘Keerai’ in Tamil. It contains an abundance of minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants. The nutrition-rich leafy vegetable should be a part of your child’s healthy diet as it helps in the physical development and prevent diseases. Also, spinach is known for its versatility that you can give them to kids in many ways.
Here are some ways to include spinach in your baby’s diet. Read more to know information about the nutritional benefits of spinach, how and when to introduce spinach to the baby.
When can I introduce Spinach to my baby?
You can introduce spinach to your baby from 10 months. You can also begin spinach earlier, but ten months is ideal for baby to digest spinach easily. When you start spinach, begin with a small amount of spinach puree or spinach soup at daytime. If the baby shows an allergic reaction, discontinue feeding it and consult your baby’s doctor.
Make sure the spinach is thoroughly washed, stems are removed and cleaned before preparing the baby food. Gradually you can start including other spinach recipes. Restrict spinach to your baby weekly twice or thrice as too much of it may not be suitable for babies.
How to select and store Spinach for Baby Food
Choose fresh and tender spinach with bright green leaves. The stems should have no signs of yellowing, and the leaves should not be wilted or bruised. Buying organic spinach is recommended for baby food as non-organic spinach varieties may be contaminated with pesticides.
After purchasing spinach, place them in a plastic bag and store them in the refrigerator. It keeps well for five days if stored properly. Don’t wash the spinach before storing in a fridge.
Best Spinach Types for Baby
- Palak (Spinach)
- Baby Spinach
- Mulai Keerai (Amarantus Blitum)
- Arai Keerai (Tricolor Amaranthus)
- Siru Keerai (Tropical Amaranthus)
Slowly you can include below spinach varieties to babies menu preferably after one year
- Methi Leaves (Fenugreek Leaves)
- Drumstick Leaves (Moringa Leaves)
- Sigappu Thandu Keerai (Red Amaranthus )
- Manthakali keerai (Black nightshade)
- Ponnangani Keerai (Dwarf Copper Leaf)
Nutrients in Spinach
Here is the nutrition information of 1 cup of cooked spinach (180 g)
Health Benefits of Spinach for Babies and Toddlers
- Spinach is useful for babies with less appetite as it is easily digestible. It provides essential nutrients which are vital for the growth of the baby.
- Antioxidants in spinach are suitable for growing children’s muscles.
- Vitamin A in spinach is beneficial for eye health and helps to improve children’s eyesight.
- Spinach is loaded with potassium which is helpful in maintaining brain function and boosts concentration.
- Calcium present in spinach contributes to good bone health.
- The folate content in spinach helps in the development of the nervous system.
- Vitamin C in spinach benefits to boost the immune system of kids.
- Rich in Vitamins and minerals that benefit skin and hair for your baby.
Spinach Recipes for Babies, Toddlers, and Kids
Here are some delicious recipes to include spinach in your baby’s diet.
-
- Spinach Soup (10 M+)
-
- Dal Spinach Rice (10 M+)
-
- Spinach Omelette (10 M+)
-
- Spinach Khichdi (10 M+)
-
- Spinach Rice (10 M+)
-
- Spinach Egg Fry (10 M+)
-
- Fenugreek Leaves Soup (1 y+)
-
- Drumstick Leaves Soup (1 y+)
-
- Spinach Pulao (1 Y+)
-
- Palak Paneer (1 y+)
-
- Spinach Biriyani (1 y+)
-
- Dal Palak
Do try all these nutritious spinach baby food recipes:)
Leave a Reply