M.Sc. (Food & Nutrition), MBA
Swati Patwal is a clinical nutritionist, a Certified Diabetes Educator (CDE) and a toddler mom with more than a decade of experience in diverse fields of nutrition. She started her career as a CSR project coordinator for a healthy eating and active lifestyle project catering to school children. Then she worked as a nutrition faculty and clinical nutrition coach in different organizations.
Her interest in scientific writing and research made her join MomJunction as a Nutritionist writer. She writes research-backed health, wellness, and nutrition-related articles for infants, toddlers, kids, teens, pregnant and lactating women. Using her experiential learning and meticulous research skills, she creates authentic and scientifically validated articles for her readers.
Swati did her Master’s in Food Nutrition from GB Pant University of Agriculture & Technology and has qualified UGC-NET. She has completed MBA in Healthcare Services Management from Sikkim Manipal University of Health, Medical and Technological Sciences and holds a certificate in Translational Nutrigenetics. Furthermore, she holds special merit certificates in Childhood and Human Development, Development in Adolescence and Adulthood, and Media Systems.
Her articles have been cited and featured in notable journals and websites, including the International Journal of Applied Research (IJAR), and World Today News.
Playing with her zealous toddler, nature-walking, reading novels, and experimenting with recipes are some of her hobbies.
MomJunction has a strong editorial policy in place, and the team abides by its guidelines. We work toward providing the most reliable information to the reader and help them with a solution that is reliable. Our posts are authentic, and are not biased or influenced. Know more about our editorial policy.
Infantile scoliosis or infantile idiopathic scoliosis refers to an abnormal, side-to-side curving of the spine in children, typically younger than three years. The spine curvature is considered abnormal when its angle is greater than 10 degrees. This painless condition develops during the intrauterine period or after birth. Infantile scoliosis is different from congenital scoliosis. Most […]
Many parents would consider an alternative for refined sugars for their child as it lacks nutrients and is high in calorific value. Maple syrup for babies has been increasingly used as an alternative, natural sweetener. It is a derivative of sugar maple trees with a unique and sweet flavor (1). Pure maple syrup is a […]
The benefits of vegetables for babies are numerous. They are vital sources of essential nutrients and must be included in your baby’s diet. Additionally, vegetables add flavor to dishes and are rich in dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals. These nutrients are required for your baby’s optimum growth and development. Your pediatrician may have asked you […]
Baking muffins for babies is a great way to include fruits and veggies in their diet in an enjoyable manner. Their soft, spongy texture makes them easy for babies to consume. Muffins are soft baked goods made with a batter mainly containing flour, egg, milk, and butter. They can be customized as per preference to […]
Salmon is a fatty fish that is a good source of lean protein, omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA), vitamins, and minerals (1). Hence, the benefits of salmon for babies could also be numerous if introduced in the weaning stage. However, before adding it to your infant’s diet, check whether it is safe to consume […]
Echinacea or purple cornflower is often used as a natural remedy for upper respiratory tract infections and other illnesses, such as the cold, flu, and fever in children. However, parents must understand its effectiveness and safety before using echinacea for kids to treat illnesses or improve their general health (1). Echinacea is a group of […]
Tomato, botanically considered a fruit, is a versatile food rich in bioactive compounds and vital nutrients, such as vitamin C and lycopene. Hence, the health benefits of tomatoes for babies are numerous, and they could be introduced to their diet during the weaning stage (1) (2). However, since tomatoes are acidic, they may cause acid reflux, […]
Artificial sweeteners are a popular alternative to natural sugar. However, as the name suggests, it is an artificial product. Hence, it must be analyzed how safe it is to consume artificial sweeteners in pregnancy. Sugar is a major energy source. However, excess sugar consumption may increase the risk of certain health problems such as diabetes. […]
Avocados or butter fruits are popular due to their taste and nutritional value. But is it safe to consume avocados in pregnancy? These pear-shaped fruits are considered to be berries since they contain only one seed. You may enjoy them as part of several preparations. The fruit is also popularly consumed in the since it […]
Guava is a sweet and tasty fruit whether it is raw or fully ripe, crunchy or soft and smooth. Those who enjoy it wouldn’t mind eating it every day, especially because of its multiple health benefits. However, you may ponder the question ‘Is guava good for pregnancy’, as it is a time when you should […]
For most children, three main meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) might be insufficient. According to experts, young children (aged 2 to 8 years old) should have at least two snacks during a day, while older children (8 years and older) should have at least one snack with their major meals (1). Vegetable snacks for kids […]
If you are unaware of using Cannabidiol or CBD oil for kids, you should be reading this post. CBD oil is a component found in the Cannabis Sativa family’s hemp and marijuana plants, making individuals feel high. (1). The oil has gained popularity in recent years for treating various conditions, including chronic pain, stress, insomnia, […]
Approximately 8% to 12% of all school-aged children skip their breakfast. There are various reasons why your child would skip breakfast, but you must intervene. You can try some healthy and kid-friendly breakfast ideas for kids to make your child look forward to eating. Breakfast is the first meal of the day, eaten several hours […]
Lactating women may be unsure about their dietary choices because whatever they eat will be shared with their infants. One such doubt is whether or not to eat pineapple during breastfeeding. Pineapple is a hydrating fruit that contains several essential nutrients, dietary fiber, and components that support long-term health (1). Most of these nutrients can be […]
When do you stop burping a baby? New parents may often wonder about it. Burping is a part of your baby’s feeding regimen to assist your baby to release the excess gas from the tummy that they tend to ingest while feeding (1). It is believed to assist your child to avoid spitting up and […]
Symbolic play is a creative activity where toddlers and babies use an object or item to represent or symbolize something else (1). This symbolic representation helps a child convey and depict thoughts and ideas through words, sound, and play (2). A baby talking over a toy phone and racing a block like a car are […]
Did you know? The WHO recommends a daily intake of less than 5g of salt for adults, but the actual intake figures are more than double the recommendations. The average daily intake among the world adult population is 9–12g (1). Salt (sodium) consumption directly affects blood pressure, increasing the risk of heart diseases. According to […]
Flea bites on children appear as tiny and itchy red bumps or welts on the skin. These occur due to the bites of fleas, which thrive on blood. Fleas are often transmitted to humans from furry pets such as dogs or cats. The fleas jump on non-living objects, such as carpets or tables, and transfer […]
The third trimester that begins in the 28th week of pregnancy is also the last. It mostly ends around the 40th week, after the baby is born (1). During these last three months, the body undergoes several physical and physiological changes. This stage prepares the mother and the fetus for the delivery and what comes […]
Attention deficit hyperactivity (ADHD) is a common in children. A few studies state that certain foods and nutrients may impact a child’s mood and self-control (1). A diet for kids with ADHD could consist of these food items and nutrients. In general, children with ADHD should consume a healthy, well-balanced diet that supports their behavior […]
Calcium is an essential mineral for all ages. The benefits of calcium for kids include the development of strong bones and teeth. This mineral is available in several food sources, such as fortified cereals, dairy products, and certain vegetables. If children do not get sufficient calcium for a long period, they may develop calcium deficiency, […]
Viral rash in children, also known as viral exanthem, occurs when the skin is inflamed due to a viral infection (1). The rash may be in one spot (localized) or on the entire body (widespread), appearing as bumps, reddish-pink blotches, pimples, or blisters. In rare cases, the rash may cause itching, stinging, or a burning […]
The first 12 weeks of gestation, starting from conception, is called the first trimester. During this period, the body begins to expand and grow, along with other physiological and physical changes in the mother and the baby, leading to weight gain in the first trimester. However, weight gain may not be common for all women. […]
Growing pains in kids are cramps or pounding pains in the thighs, shins, calves, or back of the knees (1). They are often seen during childhood between three and 14 years, mostly in children who are physically active and have flexible joints. Although harmless and a natural part of development, growing pains in children can […]
Appetite loss during pregnancy is common. Nausea, food aversion, and several other pregnancy-related food issues may occur in women during this time, making them eat less than the recommended proportions (1). Although appetite loss subsides mostly by the end of the first trimester, contact your doctor if it persists or worsens. Poor appetite during pregnancy […]
Eating habits change during adolescence mainly because teens tend to eat most of their meals outside the home, where their food choices are driven by convenience and peer influence (1). Identifying easy but healthy recipes for teenagers to cook can help them choose foods not based on appearance and taste rather than their nutritional value. […]
Melanoma (malignant tumor) is a type of skin cancer where melanocytes grow out of control. Melanocytes are skin cells that produce melanin, a pigment imparting color to one’s hair, skin, and eyes. According to the National Institute of Health (NIH), although rare, melanoma is the third most common skin cancer type in children, commonly affecting […]
Tea tree oil is an essential oil extracted from the leaves of the Melaleuca alternifolia tree native to Australia (1). Clinical evidence shows tea tree oil has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that can have therapeutic effects (2). It’s the prominent reason why tea tree oil use has been a vital part of complementary and alternative […]
Can dietary supplements boost your family’s immunity? Time for a Reality check! Immunity and its importance for human survival need no explanation. But the pandemic has “reiterated and accentuated” it pervasively. As a result, there has been a staggering increase in purchases of dietary supplements, which claim to boost immunity and protect against viral infections. […]
Most women wonder about the safety of consuming hemp seeds in pregnancy since it comes from commercial hemp plants (Cannabis sativa) that belong to the same species as marijuana. Hemp seeds are brown, nutty-flavored seeds packed with essential nutrients such as omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Pregnant women need these nutrients for optimal growth and […]
Low-carb recipes for kids have gained popularity as they help children deal with health conditions such as chronic obesity and uncontrolled type-2 diabetes. A low-carb diet is defined as a meal plan where less than 25% of the total calories comprise carbohydrates, preferably complex carbohydrates. While adults opt for a low-carb diet to lose weight, […]
Nasal polyps in children are rare. According to a study by multiple researchers, the estimated incidence rate of nasal polyps is 0.1 percent among children. These teardrop-shaped, painless, soft polypoidal growths of inflamed tissue may emerge in the nasal lining or the sinuses (1). They can be singular or grow in clusters, called nasal polyposis. […]
Pityriasis rosea in children is characterized by pink or red scaly rashes. Usually, the rash begins as a single, one- to two-inch oval patch, called a herald patch. Eventually, it increases to multiple smaller and itchy patches. It is more common in older children and teens, and the underlying cause is usually unknown (1) (2). […]
New mothers often have concerns about how safe it is to consume sushi while breastfeeding. This staple rice dish of Japanese cuisine is traditionally prepared with cooked rice, vegetables, and delicious seasonings. However, it also includes egg or raw seafood, which may be a cause for concern. In addition, since seafood is often exposed to […]
Many parents find it convenient to refrigerate breast milk to keep it fresh for later consumption. Many teething babies may also prefer cold milk as it offers relief from pain. However, this raises a common question in the minds of many parents: can babies drink cold milk? According to the Centers for Disease Control and […]
Water intoxication in babies is a condition that may cause severe physiological changes, such as low body temperatures and seizures. Feeding more water than the baby’s body can handle may upset the electrolyte balance of their system, leading to water intoxication. Just like for adults, water is a vital nutrient for babies too. It is, […]
The American Academy of Pediatrics opposes the use of weight loss pills for teens and adolescents without a doctor’s prescription. Hence, teens should not use weight loss pills that can be purchased over the counter or online. In the US, the prevalence of obesity was 19.7%, affecting around 14.7 million children and adolescents, according to […]
Coffee is a stimulating beverage that pregnant women often crave. But since caffeine intake during pregnancy isn’t advisable, many consider switching to decaffeinated coffee while pregnant. Decaffeinated coffee or decaf has almost the same flavor as regular coffee but contains 97% less caffeine (1). This unique quality of decaf makes it a good choice for […]
Choosing healthy, iron-rich foods for kids and adding them to their meals is essential. Iron is a vital nutrient growing children need for several physiological functions, such as brain development. Most healthy children can fulfill their daily iron needs from a well-balanced diet. Yet, iron deficiency among children is common and can evolve into iron […]
Diarrhea in children is a frequent passing of watery stools three or more times a day. It can be a symptom and a less serious condition (1). The most common cause of diarrhea is viral gastrointestinal infections. However, that occurs genetically may also cause it. Depending on the underlying cause, diarrhea can be acute, persistent, […]
Dry fruits offer energy, vitamins, minerals, dietary fiber, and several bioactive compounds. Therefore, moderate consumption of dry fruits in pregnancy is important for a baby’s overall health and well-being. Dry fruits are a combination of nuts and dried fruits. Nuts are naturally found dried inside a hard shell and protective husk (1). Dried fruits are […]
Sushi is a traditional Japanese dish made with seafood, often raw salmon, tuna, yellowtail, squid, and vinegared sushi rice (sumeshi). However, depending on your preference, you can make different types of sushi, such as Maki (sushi rolls), using ingredients like Nori (seaweed) and vegetables(1). If you consider eating sushi when pregnant, you should eat a […]
Shrimp is a soft-textured shellfish rich in vital nutrients, such as lean protein, selenium, and several B vitamins, such as vitamin B12. It also contains heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, which can benefit a pregnant woman and her unborn baby. But while shrimp is generally considered a healthy choice for seafood lovers, you might want to […]
Cough in kids can be due to infectious or noninfectious causes. Experts suggest that if a child has a cough but is otherwise healthy, you shouldn’t try to suppress it. Instead, let it take its course. Coughing is an airway defense mechanism. It is a reflex that triggers the airways to expel inhaled irritants and […]
A casserole is a sweet or savory baked dish usually eaten for breakfast or dinner. The dish gets its name from the variety of large, deep vessels, such as pans and bowls, called casseroles used to bake the dish. Usually, casseroles are made with animal or plant-based ingredients based on one’s dietary preferences. However, the […]
People of all ages usually enjoy desserts. However, when it comes to children, relishing desserts knows no ritual, tradition, or time. They simply love eating desserts because they are sweet and delicious. So here we bring you some easy-to-make, attractive, and flavorsome dessert recipes for kids from countries such as the US, Italy, India, Mexico, […]
Chicken is a versatile food that’s easy to cook and customize. There are several healthy chicken recipes for kids to provide high-quality, and several vital nutrients, such as , vitamin B6, , and zinc (1) (2). Chicken is also low in saturated fat when compared to red meat. Read this post to explore some easy-to-make, […]
As children experience a growth spurt, so does their appetite. Snacks are a part of your child’s diet routine, and not all are bad. Regular healthy snacking can help children fulfill their nutritional requirements to support their growth and development. However, most packaged snacks are highly processed and rich in sugar, refined flour, and artificial […]
Soda is a non-alcoholic beverage that many people, including pregnant women, enjoy drinking. The common belief is that sipping soda helps feel refreshed instantaneously and provides energy. Some pregnant women may turn to soda to fight pregnancy fatigue, but regular consumption could be linked with negative health outcomes. So can you drink soda while pregnant, […]
Mango is a juicy tropical fruit rich in nutrients. Ripe mangoes taste sweet and have a soft pulp with a sweet aroma. Mangoes are also and relatively easy to digest, making mango for babies a good choice. But while mango seems to confer several benefits, you need to know the right age and appropriate ways […]
Strawberry is a nutrient-dense fruit rich in vitamins, fiber, and . But since they are acidic, parents might want to know when can babies have strawberries. Thankfully, you may make strawberries a part of a baby’s weaning diet. The fruit can contribute to their overall nutritional needs, promoting their health and supporting growth and development. […]
Brownies, cookies, cakes, and pizzas are favorites for most children. But one thing that they enjoy more than eating is baking and cooking in the kitchen. Baking recipes for kids can encourage their creativity and imagination. To give you some ideas to get started, we bring you a list of irresistibly delicious and sweet baking […]
Teens and social media have a close association since it is not uncommon to find teenagers spend several hours on social media websites. Teenage social media addiction isn’t a medical condition, but it’s a common problem that can adversely affect teens’ physical and mental health. According to a Pew Research Center report, 95% of teens […]
In This Article About The ProductSpecificationsKey ingredientsNutritional benefitsDirections for useSafety informationFeatures of interestStorage informationAptaGrow Health and Nutrition Drink Powder: Does it work?Value For MoneyThe Final verdict About The Product Children can get all the nutrients they need from their diet but their fussy eating habits and occasional appetite slumps can leave some gaps in their […]
Rooibos tea may have several benefits for expecting women. However, if you want to consider rooibos tea for pregnancy, knowing its safety for you and your baby is imperative. Indigenous to the mountains of South Africa, rooibos tea is a shrubby legume that has captured the hearts of many tea enthusiasts with its fruity, sweet […]
Cheese is a good source of protein and calcium during pregnancy and can aid your baby’s bone development (1). Therefore, goat cheese while pregnant could also be a healthy and delicious addition to your diet. However, take it with caution since there are restrictions on specific cheese. As with any cheese, be aware of its […]
Sour cream in pregnancy may be safe, provided it is prepared by pasteurizing, homogenizing, and ripening a light cream. The ripening process uses a culture of lactic acid bacteria and other flavoring substances to give the sour cream a mild and pleasant acidic taste (1). Sour cream is often used as a condiment to enhance flavor […]