Public health and Clinical Nutrition & Dietetics
Shivani Sikri is the chief nutritionist and co-founder of Nutri4Verve and holds about 13 years of experience in the field of nutrition. After completing her Masters, Shivani Sikri did a postgraduate in nutrition and health education, a postgraduate diploma in public health and nutrition (PGDPHN), and a postgraduate diploma in nutrition and clinical dietetics. She has also completed her certification in Nutrigenomics from the US.Shivani recommends a well-balanced, holistic lifestyle modification approach to her clients, with customized, balanced Indian fusion and international diets. She is a regular columnist and health writer at leading publications in India, including The Times of India, Femina, and The Indian Express. She has been featured in Tata Sky Health, invited as a guest speaker for the government program Poshan Abhiyaan, and has conducted various workshops and webinars at schools, institutes, and corporates.
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Nachos are fried or baked tortilla chips often served with melted cheese and different toppings. They are often a favorite snack time option for kids. Hence, we have put together some easy nacho recipes for kids to give a creative and healthy twist to your children’s snack of choice. By adding a healthy portion of vegetables, you can turn this snack into a nutritious one. Read on to make these dishes as is or create your own versions by experimenting with different ingredients or customizing them according to your little one’s tastes. [mj-toc] 11 Simple Nachos Recipes For Kids 1. Easy Nachos Recipe: [caption id="attachment_329756" align="aligncenter" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] You need: Tomatoes Corns Kidney beans Ground cumin and paprika Onion flakes Diced bacon (or any meat of choice – you can also skip this to make it a vegetarian recipe) Mozzarella cheese Corn chips Salt and pepper How to: Preheat the oven to 200 degree C. Spray some cooking spray...
Getting your children to eat their greens can be tiring. However, you could get them interested in their veggies by taking a break from your usual recipes and trying some unique vegetable recipes for toddlers. Children need wholesome meals rich in proteins, carbohydrates, fats, minerals, and vitamins. Thus, your children will lack the required nutrients for their overall growth without vegetables. Although picky eaters may not find vegetables appetizing, you could add a twist to their boring veggies with these tasty recipes. The versatility of these kid-friendly and nutritious recipes will make you excited to cook them and help meet your children’s nutrition needs and satisfy their hunger. So read on! [mj-toc] Interesting Vegetable Recipes For Toddlers Try out these amazingly yummy and healthy vegetable recipes for toddlers that will make them lick their plates clean and make mealtime fun. 1. Maple Syrup Glazed Carrots: [caption id="attachment_136631" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image : Shutterstock[/caption] You can serve this fiber-rich dish with plain...
If you are craving pumpkin during pregnancy, you need not hesitate to include it in your diet. Pumpkin and its seeds are highly nutritious and beneficial for pregnant women. The fiber-rich fruit helps prevent and treat constipation. Additionally, the seeds help maintain a healthy pumping heart and aids in the baby’s bone formation. Besides these benefits, pumpkins offer many other health advantages. It is also a versatile ingredient and can be incorporated into different foods, both sweet and savory. This post explains the benefits of consuming pumpkin and pumpkin seeds during pregnancy and some delicious recipes to incorporate this ingredient into your diet. [mj-toc] Health Benefits Of Pumpkin During Pregnancy Eating pumpkin and its seeds when you are pregnant has many healthy pregnancy benefits and aids in fetal development. However, it is important you also get a confirmation from your doctor before consuming either while you are pregnant. 1. Prevent And Soothe Abdominal Cramps: Pumpkin can help prevent and even...
Vegetables are a great source of nutrition for pregnant women. However, you might be curious to know about the safety of radish during pregnancy. The vegetable is known to have numerous health benefits and provides many essential nutrients required for a healthy pregnancy. However, consuming it raw may cause infections that lead to further complications in some cases. However, it does not imply that pregnant women cannot eat radish. If you have food cravings for radish, follow some safety tips when cooking so you can enjoy its nutrition without dealing with any infection. Read the post to understand more about the benefits and risks of eating radish during pregnancy. [MJ_RELATED_LINKS href="https://www.momjunction.com/articles/healthy-foods-for-your-third-trimester-diet_00109586/" title="16 Nutritious Foods To Include In Your Third Trimester Diet"] [mj-toc] The Health Benefits Of Radishes [caption id="attachment_889845" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] Just a single serving of radishes a day can provide your body many important nutrients your developing baby needs. Radish is a rich source of calcium. Calcium...
It is not fully known whether you should eat spicy dishes or ingest various spices during pregnancy. Some say it may cause problems during pregnancy, while others say it's beneficial. Furthermore, you may have turned down all outside food because you are unsure of which spices to consume and which to avoid while pregnant. This post includes an extensive list of spices to eat and spices to avoid during pregnancy to address all of your questions. [mj-toc] What Are Spices? Spices have a very special place in our cooking, as the blanched vegetables once treated with a variety of spices can do wonders and produce a lip-smacking dish. A spice is defined as a dried kernel, root, bark, vegetable, or fruit substance that adds flavor, aroma, and taste to your recipes. You can use spices, not just for flavoring, but also serve as coloring agents and preservatives for a food item. Spices differ from herbs, as the latter has a...
In recent years, seaweed has emerged as a superfood and has gained importance as a dietary supplement. But, you may not be sure of the safety of seaweed during pregnancy. Pregnant women should exercise caution while consuming it because it can have adverse effects on the growth of the fetus if taken in excess. Although the right amount of seaweed is believed to be beneficial during pregnancy, you should consult a doctor before deciding to consume it. Read on the types of seaweed, their health benefits during pregnancy, and the possible risks associated. [mj-toc] Types Of Seaweed Edible seaweed is of three types - the green, brown and red varieties. Green seaweed, also known as ulva or sea lettuce is usually used in soups and salads. Brown seaweed again includes many varieties like wakame, kelp, arame and hijiki. Red type includes the variety nori that is used in making sushi and dulse. Dulse is a chewy reddish brown form used...
[caption id="attachment_486854" align="alignnone" width="711"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] You must have hardly seen a child who dislikes chocolates. Knowing about different chocolate recipes for kids might help you and your munchkin experiment and discover some yummy delicacies. Moreover, research says that people who consume chocolates regularly are less likely to suffer from blood pressure and cardiac diseases. So, if you are interested in exploring a collection of easy yet nutritional kid-friendly chocolate recipes, then keep reading our post. Top 10 Yummy Chocolate Recipes For Children To Make Chocolates and kids seem to share an inseparable “sweet” bond. Engage your kids free time in helping you prepare the below mentioned yummylicious and simple chocolate recipes for kids. This way they will also learn something about cooking too! 1. Chocolate Cake: [caption id="attachment_96358" align="aligncenter" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] With the word “chocolate” rings “chocolate cake” in anybody’s mind. Here is how you and your child can enjoy making this god of all chocolate recipes! You...
Mothers of toddlers and young kids are always on the hunt for healthy, interesting, and delicious recipes for their children. Beetroot is one such healthy food that is a favorite of all mothers. We bring you some interesting beetroot recipes for toddlers. While children always prefer their snacks, it may help mothers know some interesting recipes to sneak in vegetables and other nutrients in their child’s food. Delve into this post to find a delicious beetroot recipe that may suit your child’s preferences. [mj-toc] Top 10 Beetroot Recipes For Toddlers Here is our selection of ten easy and delicious recipes for your toddler including finger foods, smoothies, and stir fries that feature the beetroot which you can add to your the list of your baby’s vegetable-based meals: 1. Beet And Carrot Latkes: [caption id="attachment_379784" align="aligncenter" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] You Will Need: 2 cups grated and peeled beetroot. 2 cups grated and peeled carrots. 1 small grated onion. 1 egg Salt...
You certainly already have a list of what to eat and not to eat while pregnant. However, you may succumb to your pregnancy food cravings, which are common among pregnant women. For example, eating a cake during pregnancy is one such pregnancy craving. If you are considering eating cake while pregnant but aren't sure if giving in to the temptation may harm your unborn child, this post will clear things up. So before you tempt your taste buds, read on to know if eating cake is safe when you're pregnant. [mj-toc] Is It Safe To Eat A Cake During Pregnancy? Hannah Whittaker, a pediatric and pregnancy dietitian from Liverpool, England, says, “Cake can be eaten during pregnancy; however, I would advise my clients not to have them every day, as they could cause excessive weight gain. If you eat cakes frequently, they should be made from a low-calorie recipe, such as a fruit loaf. I would also advise looking at...
Coconut oil is an edible oil produced by pressing fresh or dried coconut meat. Besides adding it to food, you can use it for hair strengthening and skin care as a moisturizer. Since it has several benefits, it should be considered whether the use of coconut oil during pregnancy is safe and beneficial. Read on to learn more about whether it is safe to use and consume coconut oil during pregnancy, its benefits for you and the baby, how to use it, its medical uses during pregnancy, and its effect on breastmilk. [mj-toc] Coconut Oil – The Pregnancy Superfood Typically, pregnancy [simple_tooltip text="superfood" tooltip="A food that contains essential nutrients that are beneficial to maintain good health" ] is something that provides the nutrients that directly contribute to the growth, development, and well-being of your unborn baby. These foods include, among others, eggs, milk, beans, legumes, broccoli, beef, berries, pasteurized cheese, salmon, yogurt, and coconut oil. Coconut is fast emerging as...
Consumption of acai berries has several health benefits. Some believe that these berries help treat sexual disorders and reduce weight. However, women might be apprehensive about eating acai berry during pregnancy. Since these berries are nutrient-dense, one might be tempted to eat them. However, it would be wise to know their effects on pregnancy before consuming them. If you are a berry lover and want to explore more about if you can eat acai berries during pregnancy, read this post for details. [mj-toc] What Is Acai Berry? The grape-like fruit grows on acai palm trees, [simple_tooltip text="endemic" tooltip="Limited to specific geographic areas or environmental conditions" ] endemicito the rainforests of South America. The high nutrient value of acai berry makes it a veritable ‘superfood'. Some positives of consuming the berry include easing [simple_tooltip text="arthritis" tooltip="A disease characterized by painful inflammation and stiffness in the joints" ], regulating high cholesterol level, promoting weight loss and improving skin health (1). Is Acai Berry...
Many women crave Chinese food during pregnancy but are worried about its effects on their baby’s health. Chinese food and traditions are also surrounded by many myths, such as eating crabs during pregnancy may cause you to give birth to a naughty baby as the many legs of the crab symbolically represent naughtiness (1). However, the real reasons to avoid Chinese food during pregnancy are its high sugar and salt content and the addition of monosodium glutamate (a taste enhancer), which makes it unsuitable for consumption by expectant mothers. Moreover, consuming Chinese food may also increase the risk of getting bacterial infections. This post is a guide on why you should avoid Chinese food during pregnancy. [MJ_RELATED_LINKS href="https://www.momjunction.com/articles/crab-during-pregnancy_00367098/" title="Is It Safe To Eat Crab During Pregnancy?"] [mj-toc] Reasons To Avoid Chinese Food During Pregnancy The high sugar content of sauces used in Chinese preparations makes it a no-no for pregnant women. The liberal usage of vinegar, especially in dishes like...
Ragi is a high-fiber food beneficial for babies. If you wish to introduce ragi to their diet, this post includes simple recipes to help you prepare ragi porridge for babies. Ragi contains high amounts of protein, vitamins, and fibers that help improve digestion, strengthen bones, boost immunity, and prevent anemia. Read on to know more about the health benefits of ragi and learn some simple recipes to include ragi in your baby’s diet. [mj-toc] What Is Ragi Porridge? [caption id="attachment_891434" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] Ragi or finger millet is extremely nutritious, and it helps your baby’s overall growth and development. Finger millet contains high amounts of proteins, calcium, and iron. It is gluten-free, low in fat, absorbable and easily digestible. Ragi porridge serves as one of the best weaning food preparations to be incorporated into infant nutrition. You can introduce it to your baby once she completes six months. But consult your pediatrician before introducing ragi porridge into your little...
Many women crave pasta during pregnancy but are worried about its safety. Generally, moderate amounts of pasta can be consumed safely during pregnancy if made at home. However, if you decide to eat pasta, you should pay attention to its quality. For example, it is better to choose healthier varieties, such as wholewheat pasta. Eating pasta in small quantities may offer certain benefits. For example, it provides energy, helps prevent constipation, and helps fight anemia. However, if eaten in excess, it may lead to insufficient absorption of nutrients or increase the risk of infections. Read this post to learn if pasta is safe for pregnant women, its nutritional value, side effects, and some good brands to try. [mj-toc] Can You Eat Pasta During Pregnancy? [caption id="attachment_891221" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] Yes, you can eat in moderate quantities but only homemade pasta. Avoid eating ready-made pasta available in stores as it is not healthy. Also, eating anything in excess is harmful....
Eating a well-balanced diet during pregnancy helps you stay healthy and fit. It is known how essential it is to eat vegetables and fruits during pregnancy to get the necessary minerals and vitamins. And one such fruit is apples. Consuming apples during pregnancy has many health benefits. So, read on to know more about the safety, health benefits, nutritional value, possible side effects, and interesting ways to include apples in your diet during the prenatal period. [mj-toc] Is It Safe To Eat Apples During Pregnancy? [caption id="attachment_889432" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] Yes, apples are safe to eat when you are pregnant (1). They are highly nutritious and rich in antioxidants, [simple_tooltip text="phytonutrients" tooltip="Natural chemicals and nutrients obtained from plants. " ], flavonoids, and dietary fiber. However, wash the fruit thoroughly before you eat to eliminate any pesticide residues on them. Also, avoid eating seeds of an apple, because they contain cyanide that is harmful to the body (2). Also avoid...
Teens can be fussy eaters, and coming up with new and exciting recipes every day is a daunting task. So, to help you out with it, we bring you this post on interesting dinner ideas for teens. Teens generally crave spicy and tasty food for their meals. In addition, they have access to the Internet and television, which helps them broaden their taste palette. But how many new dishes can you invent every day? Do not fret. Read on as we have compiled an interesting list of easy, quick, and family-friendly recipes that you can make for your children for dinner. Choose the ones you think will impress them the most. [mj-toc] Top Ten Healthy Dinner Ideas For Teens Here are ten dinner ideas your teen will love helping you out with: 1. Oven fried chicken [caption id="attachment_361928" align="aligncenter" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] You Will Need: 2 cups cut [simple_tooltip text="broiler" tooltip="A chicken that is less than 10 weeks old." ]-fryer...
Carrots are a rich source of beta-carotene ([simple_tooltip text="antioxidant" tooltip="Compounds that prevent or delay cellular damage caused by free radicals" ]), vitamins, and calcium (1). In addition, consuming carrot juice during pregnancy can protect you and your baby from various illnesses by boosting your immunity (2). During pregnancy, you may not be able to enjoy some beverages that you used to. So carrots can provide you with energy and freshness while quenching your thirst. In addition, this nutrient-rich vegetable provides essential prenatal nutrition that can help you through the journey of a healthy pregnancy and aid in the overall development of the fetu (3). This post will tell you everything you need to know about carrots and their benefits for pregnant women, including their side effects. [MJ_RELATED_LINKS href="https://www.momjunction.com/articles/your-unborn-babys-development_00389566/" title="Fetal Development Week By Week: Stages Of Pregnancy"] [mj-toc] Benefits Of Carrot Juice During Pregnancy Carrot is known to be one of the most versatile of all vegetables because of its nutritive value,...
Green tea is a refreshing and popular beverage that is a favorite among many people due to the health benefits it offers. However, if you are unsure about the benefits and side effects of green tea for children, we will help you find the answers in this post. Green tea has been scientifically proven to aid weight loss, improve cardiovascular health, and improve mental alertness. In addition, the high amount of [simple_tooltip text="antioxidants" tooltip="Chemicals that protect your body from free radicals" ] present in green tea may help strengthen children’s immunity , prevent signs of cold and flu. Read on to know more about the benefits and side effects of green tea for children. [mj-toc] What Is Green Tea? [caption id="attachment_891162" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] You can brew tasty green tea by boiling the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant in hot water. Sometimes, green tea extract is also used in alternative medicine. Some of the health benefits that green...
To ensure proper prenatal care, pregnant women are often advised to incorporate citrus fruits into their diet. Pomelo during pregnancy is one such fruit that offers various health benefits. The fruit tends to be sweeter than other citrus fruits and offers good nutritional value. In addition, it provides folic acid and vitamin C, which are essential for a healthy pregnancy. Read on to know more about pomelo and its pregnancy benefits and safety. [MJ_RELATED_LINKS href="https://www.momjunction.com/articles/amazing-benefits-of-folic-acid-for-pregnancy_0075542/" title="5 Reasons To Take Folic Acid In Pregnancy And Its Dosage"] [mj-toc] What Is Pomelo? Pomelo is a citrus fruit. Native to Southeast Asian countries, pomelo is now available in most parts of the world. The pomelo is slightly larger than a grapefruit, and the flesh is white, yellow, pink or red. The skin of the fruit is green or yellow, and the fruit is sweet and tart in taste . The white variety is milder in taste than the pink pomelo fruit (1). It...
Nectarines share similarities with peaches in terms of appearance. The fruit is packed with sweetness and juicy goodness that can make you crave nectarines when pregnant. But just like any other food, it is natural to be skeptical about its safety when you are an expecting mother. So if you want to try one of these but cannot decide if you should eat it or not, scroll through. We will tell you about nectarines, including their safety in pregnancy and health benefits. [mj-toc] What Is A Nectarine? [caption id="attachment_891364" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] Nectarines are close cousins of peaches. They are also popular as stone fruits, and they belong to the Rosaceae family. These summer season fruits resemble peaches in their appearance. Nectarines possess a unique aroma. The fruit encloses a hard seed within it, and outer juicy flesh covers the seed. The nutritional content of the nectarines offers several health benefits. Is It Safe To Eat Nectarines During Pregnancy?...
Pesto, a sauce from Italian cuisine, is prepared using a variety of nutritious ingredients. However, is it safe to have pesto during pregnancy? Consuming pesto sauce in moderation may be considered a healthy option in pregnant women. It may provide certain nutrients such as proteins, vitamins, and good fats to meet the increased daily requirements during pregnancy. Additionally, it is effective in preventing food cravings. This post tells you in detail about pesto sauce, including its safety and benefits when incorporated into your pregnancy diet. [mj-toc] What Is Pesto? Pesto is an Italian sauce originating from Genoa in Liguria, northern Italy. Typically, pesto comprises basil, a considerable amount of garlic, European pine nuts, cheese, and olive oil. People consider the sauce as a wholesome meal since it includes various ingredients. All these ingredients are good for a healthy pregnancy (1). [MJ_RELATED_LINKS href="https://www.momjunction.com/articles/garlic-while-you-are-pregnant_00366811/" title="8 Amazing Health Benefits Of Eating Garlic During Pregnancy"] Is It Safe To Consume Pesto During Pregnancy? [caption...
Strawberries are rich in vitamin C and fiber, making them a healthy fruit option and a good alternative for unhealthy sugary candies. They are also rich sources of antioxidants. Here are a few strawberry recipes for kids that may impress your little ones and make them have more. Since strawberries have a versatile taste, you can incorporate them into various interesting recipes, whether as a snack or part of a meal. Be it shakes, fruit salad, desserts (such as cakes, pies, or sorbet), pancakes, or toppings such as jams or jelly. Try these out to add a dose of antioxidants to your children’s lives. [mj-toc] 10 Easy Strawberry Recipes For Kids 1. Strawberry And Cream Cheese Tart: You Will Need: 1 refrigerated or frozen pie crust, thawed according to package directions 1 quart fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced 8 oz. of cream cheese 1 cup ricotta cheese ½ cup brown or jaggery sugar + 2-3 tablespoons ½ cup chocolate sauce...
If you have got a fussy eater at home, this post on bread recipes for kids might be of help to you. Bread is considered a rich source of carbohydrates, fibers, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals. It should also be noted that this group of food forms one of the most important sources of energy for your little ones, which is energy is required for their adequate growth and development. But how many times can you give your child the plain old bread and butter? Even they are bound to get bored of it. So read on for a list of interesting and simple, healthy recipes with bread that you could try making. [mj-toc] Top 25 Bread Recipes For Kids 1. Paneer bread rolls [caption id="attachment_6655" align="aligncenter" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] Think of bread roll recipes for kids, paneer (cottage cheese) bread rolls are the best way to get much-needed protein. If you use whole wheat bread for this recipe,...
Caesar salad is a delectable salad that is healthy and filling. But since its dressing contains ingredients such as raw eggs and cheese, you would want to know if eating caesar salad during pregnancy is a safe choice or not? Generally, eating raw or uncooked eggs and cheeses made with unpasteurized milk is a strict no during pregnancy because they are a source of harmful pathogens that can cause food-borne illnesses. However, choosing the right ingredients and tweaking the salad recipe can help you enjoy it safely. Read on as we tell you about the Caesar salad, its safety for expecting women, and tips to prepare a healthy caesar salad at home. [mj-toc] What Is A Caesar Salad? Caesar salad is a famous Mexican delicacy known for its distinctive flavor. It is said to be named after restaurateur Caesar Cardini. This tasty salad contains Romaine lettuce and croutons dressed in olive oil, lemon juice, egg, garlic, anchovies, Worcestershire sauce, Parmesan...
Nutritious food plays an important role in ensuring a healthy and risk-free pregnancy. However, many women are apprehensive about consuming meat, such as ham during pregnancy. Pregnant women should be cautious about eating undercooked or raw meat as it risks infections. When such infections are transferred to the fetus, they might cause several adverse effects. Although the risk of infection remains low, it is important to consult a doctor before consuming ham. Read the post to know more about the safety and risks associated with the consumption of ham during pregnancy and the important tips to follow. [MJ_RELATED_LINKS href="https://www.momjunction.com/articles/is-it-safe-to-eat-deli-meats-during-pregnancy_00118527/" title="5 Reasons Why It Is Unsafe To Have Deli Meats In Pregnancy"] [mj-toc] Risks Of Meat Consumption During Pregnancy [caption id="attachment_889806" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] Meat is a good source of protein, and is an important part of the diet too. However, consumption of undercooked meats including clams, raw oysters, sushi, unpasteurized eggs and even raw cookie or cake dough could...
Cantaloupe is a melon belonging to the Cucurbitaceae family, consisting of watermelons and honeydews. The soft and sweet pulpy summer fruit may be something you would wish to feed to your baby. But while considering cantaloupe for babies, it is important to know about its safety and health aspects. Besides being sweet and soft, cantaloupe is a nutrient-rich fruit and is easily digestible. However, before giving any food to your baby as part of a weaning diet, knowing its health benefits and safety is important. Read on to know about cantaloupe, including how and when you should feed it to your baby, its health benefits, storage techniques, and healthy recipes. [mj-toc] When Can Babies Eat Cantaloupes? Babies can consume ripe cantaloupe from the age of six months when they begin to consume other solid foods. You can first serve cantaloupe in mash or puree form. Once the baby can digest the fruit without any apparent concerns, you may add cantaloupe...
Celery is a highly nutritious vegetable commonly used in salads and soups. Although the vegetable is consumed routinely, many women are apprehensive about eating celery during pregnancy. Since celery is loaded with [simple_tooltip text="antioxidants" tooltip="Substances that may prevent or slow down some types of the cell damage caused due to harmful molecules called free radicals." ], enzymes, and different vitamins, it is good for pregnant women. In addition, the vegetable also helps reduce inflammation and relieves symptoms of various diseases. However, you should consult a doctor before eating the vegetable because raw celery may lead to certain infections. Read this post to learn more about the safety of consuming celery during pregnancy and the health benefits it offers. [mj-toc] What Is Celery? Celery is a vegetable plant belonging to the Apiaceae family, and native to North African and Mediterranean regions. Today you can find vegetables in all parts of the world. Usually, you can find celery in salads, soups, and...
Some women crave hot dogs during pregnancy but may be concerned about whether it is safe to consume them. Since the food you consume during pregnancy can directly impact the fetus’ health, informed decisions should be made. A hot dog, also known as a frankfurter or wiener, is a popular barbecued food consisting of a steamed or grilled sausage placed in a slit bun with different sauces, cheese, and sometimes, vegetables. Since processed meats such as sausage are high in sodium, it may adversely affect the baby’s health. Besides, if sausage is undercooked, it can expose you and your baby to harmful [simple_tooltip text="pathogens" tooltip="Microbes that are capable of causing diseases, including bacteria, viruses, worms, protozoa, and fungi. " ] that can cause foodborne infections. Keep reading to learn more about whether it is safe to consume hot dogs while pregnant, their potential side effects, and healthy alternatives. [mj-toc] Ingredients In A Hot Dog [caption id="attachment_881683" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: iStock[/caption]...
You may agree that cheese makes the earth a better place to live. Many children love this delight. And so their parents keep trying interesting cheese recipes for kids for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and even dessert. Cheese is a good source of protein, healthy fats, and calcium and a good way to sneak in some nutrition in your child’s diet. Read this post to check out some versatile, and healthy cheese recipes for your cheese lover kid. 10 Easy Cheese Recipes For Kids 1. Oreo Cookie Cheesecake: [caption id="attachment_364287" align="aligncenter" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] You Will Need: 25 Oreo cookies 4 packets of cream cheese 4 Tbsp of butter 4 Tbsp of cornflour 4 whole eggs 1 cup of sugar or coconut sugar 2 Tbsp of vanilla essence 2 bars of chocolate 1/2 cup of cream How To: Crush the cookies and mix with butter. Line the base of the cake tin with this mixture. Whip cream cheese, cornflour, and sugar...
If you do not add variety to your teen’s lunch or pack the same lunch every day, your children may lose interest in eating it. Therefore, you should come up with creative lunch ideas for teens that encourage them to finish their food daily and provide them with the necessary nutrients. Teens are generally inclined towards eating packaged junk food or ready-made meals without realizing their adverse effects on health, and most teens find home food uninteresting. However, since teens undergo extensive growth and development, they need good nutrition to stay healthy and prevent obesity. Thus, eating healthy homemade food is crucial. This post provides a list of lunch recipes that are easy to prepare, look delicious, and provide complete nutrition to your teens. Read on. [MJ_RELATED_LINKS href="https://www.momjunction.com/articles/teen" title="6 Common Causes Of Obesity In Teens, Its Symptoms And Treatment"] [mj-toc] Healthy Lunch Ideas For Teens 1. Black Bean Chimichurri Salad: [caption id="attachment_377115" align="aligncenter" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] You Will Need: 400...
Pregnancy brings along a lot of restrictions on the types of food you can eat. But passion fruit is certainly not one of them. Consuming passion fruit during pregnancy can satisfy your cravings for something sweet and sour while promoting a healthy pregnancy. The tropical fruit is filled with nutrients that can alleviate many of the common health problems faced by pregnant women. It may also help improve immunity, ensuring a safe pregnancy for you and your baby. Read on to know about the unique fruit, including its benefits during pregnancy. [mj-toc] What Is A Passion Fruit? [caption id="attachment_890863" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] Passion fruit is native to Brazil, Argentina, and Paraguay. It is rich in vitamins A, C, B2, B6, and B3. It is also a storehouse of dietary fiber and minerals like Potassium, Iron, Phosphorus, Copper, and Magnesium. It offers many health benefits during pregnancy. Also, as there are no side-effects of eating passion fruit during pregnancy, you...
Is it safe to eat jelly during pregnancy? Fruit jelly is one of the desserts loved by people across age groups. The hormonal changes of pregnancy and increased cravings can make one want to indulge in a spoonful of that yummy smooth jelly. Continue reading this post as we tell you about the health benefits, side effects, and safety measures to be followed by expecting mothers when consuming jelly. [mj-toc] What Is Jelly? [caption id="attachment_891179" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] Jelly is a milky secretion prepared by the joint efforts of honey bees from floral nectar and is a useful ingredient for its medicinal properties. Royal jelly used to prepare different fruit-flavored jelly contains a high proportion of water, proteins, natural sugar, fats, vitamins, and amino acids. The jelly composition varies according to climatic conditions and geographic location. Royal jelly serves as a natural ingredient in health tonics to boost the immune system and fight against the aging effects. Here is...
Sunflower seeds during pregnancy can serve as a healthy, nutritious snack. The dried, roasted seeds are filled with nutrients to help your baby’s development and reduce the risk of developmental disorders. Besides, its high potassium content can aid in maintaining your blood pressure level. Sunflower seeds can be taken as delicious salty snacks or added to cakes, cereal, or pasta. Read on to know about sunflower seeds, including their benefits, side effects, and some tasty ways to have them. [mj-toc] Benefits Of Eating Sunflower Seeds During Pregnancy [caption id="attachment_890857" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] Numerous health benefits of sunflower seeds have made them a popular addition in pregnancy diets Sunflower seeds are rich in nearly 90% of vitamins, [simple_tooltip text="phytochemicals" tooltip="Bioactive compounds with antioxidant and anti-microbial properties found in plants." ], protein, minerals, antioxidants and [simple_tooltip text="polyunsaturated fats" tooltip="Type of essential fatty acids required for the proper functioning of the cells, and brain and prevention of diseases." ]. Vitamin E contained...
Desserts are often the best part of a meal for children, and puddings are surely among their favorites. Further, since they are versatile and customizable, you can make delicious pudding recipes for kids healthier by including fruits and nutritious ingredients. Thus, these sweet, milk-based desserts are a great way to encourage your children to consume milk and fruits. Keep reading for some simple recipes you can try to make amazing puddings at home or add your own twist to these recipes according to your children’s tastes. Your kids will surely be delighted by these yummy dessert options and ask for more. [mj-toc] Top 10 Pudding Recipes For Kids: Here are our top ten kids pudding recipes that are easy to prepare: [MJ_RELATED_LINKS href="https://www.momjunction.com/articles/rice-recipes-your-kids-will-love-to-eat_00100942/" title="Top 10 Easy And Healthy Rice Recipes For Kids"] 1. Hot Mocha Pudding: [caption id="attachment_359951" align="aligncenter" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] You Will Need: 150 ml milk 2 Tbsp chocolate 50 g pitted prunes or dates 50 g butter...
Star fruit is known to be a rich source of antioxidants and essential nutrients. But is it safe to have star fruit during pregnancy? The star fruit is a greenish-yellow colored fruit that is considered to be native to Sri Lanka. Its nutritional profile includes vitamins, carbohydrates, minerals, and organic acids, all of which play an important role in helping you have a healthy pregnancy and make delivering the baby easier. Read on to know more about star fruit, its nutritional values, and the advantages of having it during pregnancy. [mj-toc] What Is Star Fruit? Star fruit, also popular as Carambola, is a five-angled, waxy yellow-green fruit. The sweet and sour cool fruit grows on a tree popular as Averrhoa carambola, and it’s native to Sri Lanka. As a matter of fact, the star fruit is rich in several nutrients, such as carbohydrates, vitamins, carotenoid compounds, organic acids, minerals, and other crucial nutrients, that might be highly beneficial during pregnancy...
When you are expecting, you need to be extra careful about your nutrition because everything you eat will affect the growing fetus. Therefore, many women wonder whether it is safe to eat prawns during pregnancy. Seafood is generally considered unsafe for consumption during pregnancy because of the toxins they contain due to the rise in water pollution (1). Moreover, eating prawns when pregnant may also increase your risk of contracting [simple_tooltip text="food-borne infections" tooltip="A disease developing after consuming contaminated food and water typically indicated by nausea and vomiting" ]. However, if you have consulted your doctor and want to eat a small quality of prawns, be sure to follow some important tips to ensure they are safe for your consumption. Read this post to learn more about whether it is safe to eat prawns during pregnancy and some tips to follow if you want to occasionally include them in your diet. [mj-toc] Is It Safe To Eat Prawns During Pregnancy?...
Cooking activities for kids can be fun and educational simultaneously. Cooking does not only help children relax but also helps develop physical, social, mental, and emotional skills. For example, cooking together can help children learn the values of teamwork and communication. While cooking, they can also learn to measure, count, and cut food items. These skills help children all through their lives. Moreover, the efforts they put in cooking make them appreciate food. Picky eaters can especially benefit from cooking as they know how food comes on a plate. Cooking is ultimately a life skill, and children can learn to appreciate it. Read on as we talk about the benefits of cooking and some excellent cooking activities for children. These activities are safe for children; however, parental supervision is recommended for younger children. [mj-toc] Benefits Of Cooking Activities For Children Cooking is not merely the activity of making food. It entails planning, preparation, cooking, and serving. Here are some benefits...
The benefits of bananas for kids are numerous as they are rich sources of calcium, potassium, magnesium, and several [simple_tooltip text="bioactive compounds" tooltip="Molecules in plants and some foods with antioxidant properties and health-promoting effects." ] that boosts children’s overall health. Besides, it provides ample calories that can help contribute to a growing child’s increased energy needs. The Cavendish banana is the most commonly consumed variety in the US and Europe (1). Since this all-season fruit is generally a favorite among children, it can be incorporated into different foods to prepare delectable dishes for children. While you may have been feeding bananas to your child for a while now, it’s not too late to learn more about the health benefits of this fruit. This post shares some interesting facts about bananas, their health benefits for children, and ten delightful banana recipes to try. [mj-toc] Exciting Facts About Banana For Children Here are some exciting banana facts that you can share with...
Preparing smoothies for toddlers is a healthy way to include the fruits and vegetables they would not eat otherwise in their diet. Smoothies provide children with all the necessary vitamins, proteins, and minerals. In addition, they are healthier than juices since the fiber content of the fruit or veggie is retained (1). Smoothies also provide vitamins, proteins, and minerals to your toddler. Since smoothies can be customized according to your toddler’s preference, they are popular among children too. Read this post for some delectable and nutritious smoothie recipes for your toddlers. [mj-toc]20 Smoothie Recipes For Toddlers Breakfast Smoothies 1. Peach pie smoothie [caption id="attachment_788056" align="alignnone" width="720"] Source: istock[/caption] You will need: 1 cup unsweetened fresh (or frozen) peaches 10-12 mint leaves 1tbsp honey ¼tsp vanilla extract ⅛tsp ground cinnamon Pinch of ground nutmeg Pinch of ground ginger 1 cup milk ½cup plain yogurt How to prepare: Put all the ingredients into the blender and blend until smooth Serve fresh 2....
Punches are easy-to-prepare, refreshing beverages that children can relish across meals and on different occasions. So here are some interesting punch recipes for kids that you can prepare ahead of time by freezing into cubes. Later, add these punch cubes to a solvent to make a quick punch! You can make a tasty punch in several ways. Most punch recipes use fresh, homemade ingredients, such as ginger ale, as the solvent, while some use sparkling water or soda. However, there are no hard-and-fast rules. You can get innovative and replace sodas with healthier alternatives such as lemon or coconut water. [mj-toc]20+ Punch Recipes For Kids 1. Lemony fruit cooler [caption id="attachment_788717" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: iStock[/caption] You will need: 1l club soda (chilled) 4 cups white grape juice (chilled) 1 medium orange (halved and sliced) ½ cup sugar ½ cup lemon juice ½ cup strawberries (sliced) ½ cup fresh peaches (sliced) Ice cubes (optional) How to make: In a pitcher, mix...