Do you remember how the elders in our family always had a little piece of gur or jaggery after every meal? In our north-Indian household my mother would often make whole wheat halwa with gur during the winters and we would relish it to the core.
Gur or jaggery as you may call it in english, is a common staple in the northern part of India and is found in abundance in Punjab and Haryana as well. However, many mothers are always skeptical before giving gur to their babies and toddlers as they are not too sure if their weak digestive systems would handle it.
But, unlike popular perception the fact is that gur is loaded with numerous vitamins and minerals that makes it a must-have item on your toddler’s daily meal plan.
We give you 5 reasons to include gur or jaggery in your toddler’s diet. However, as a precaution when introducing a new food to your child always give it in small quantities for a week. Discontinue if you see any allergy or other symptoms such as a rash, fever or diarrhoea.
#1 It’s loaded with iron
Gur is made from raw, concentrated sugarcane juice which is boiled till the time it solidifies. Though many people say that it is high on sugar the fact is it's the closest substitute to white sugar and one that has numerous health benefits.
First and foremost is that it is loaded with iron, a mineral that plays a key role in the production of haemoglobin. Research says even a small piece of jaggery is enough for your toddler to fulfil his daily iron intake and prevent anaemia or an iron-deficiency.
#2 It prevents constipation
Gur or jaggery helps in activating the digestive enzymes which boost digestion and prevent constipation, which can be a common problems in toddlers and infants. It aids in stimulating the bowel movements, which is the reason why many people have a piece of gur after meals.
#3 Packed with calcium
Gur contains minerals such as zinc, selenium, calcium and phosphorous, which are essential minerals for building healthy bones and tissues.
Read about other mazing health benefits of gur for your toddler on the next page!
We all know that growing toddlers and kids need that extra does of calcium and perhaps gur can be the way you can meet your child's daily calcium intake.
#4 Is an excellent liver tonic
Gur is an excellent liver tonic and cleanses the liver by helping it get rid of harmful toxins. This is why it is a common ingredient in many Ayurvedic medications as well.
#5 Strengthens Immunity
Kids need a strong immunity which can help their body fight infections and diseases, especially when the weather changes. Gur is packed with antioxidants and essential minerals such as zinc and selenium, which increase the body's resistance to disease and builds the immunity.
If you have any insights, questions or comments regarding the article, please share them in our Comment box below. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Google+ and Twitter to stay up-to-date on the latest from theIndusparent.com
