Summer is a time for fun in the sun, playing outdoors, and enjoying cool drinks and snacks. However, for mothers, summer can bring about several food-related problems in kids due to the hot and humid weather. It is essential to take precautions to ensure that children stay healthy and well-nourished during summer.
One of the most common problems that mothers face during summer is a lack of appetite in children. Due to the hot weather, children often feel lethargic and may not feel like eating. As a result, mothers may find it challenging to ensure that their children are getting proper nutrition. This can be a cause for concern as children require a balanced diet to stay healthy and grow properly.
Dehydration is another problem that children can face during summer. The hot weather can cause children to become dehydrated, which can make them feel weak and tired. It is important to keep children hydrated during summer to ensure that they stay healthy and energetic.
Allergies are another issue that mothers need to be aware of during summer. Children can develop allergies to certain foods such as peanuts, and dairy products. During summer, allergens can be more prevalent, and it's important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of allergies and seek medical attention if necessary.
Food poisoning is a common problem that mothers need to be mindful of during summer. Foodborne illnesses can be more common during the summer months due to the hot weather, which can cause food to spoil quickly.
To ensure that children stay healthy and well-nourished during summer, it is essential to offer them healthy food options.
- Fresh Fruits:
Fresh fruits are a great way to keep children hydrated during summer. They are rich in water content and can help to replenish fluids lost due to sweating. Moreover, fresh fruits are a good source of vitamins and minerals that are essential for the growth and development of children.
For instance, mangoes are a popular summer fruit in India, and they are loaded with vitamin C, which is a powerful antioxidant that can help to boost the immune system. Similarly, watermelon is another popular summer fruit that is rich in potassium, which can help to regulate blood pressure and keep the heart healthy.
- Smoothies:
Smoothies made with fresh fruits and yogurt can be a tasty and healthy option for kids. They are a good source of vitamins and minerals and can help to keep children hydrated during summer. Moreover, you can add leafy greens such as spinach or kale to make them more nutritious.
To make the smoothies more appealing to children, you can add some honey to sweeten them. Additionally, you can add some nuts such as almonds or walnuts to make it more filling.
- Yogurt:
Yogurt is a good source of probiotics and can help to keep the digestive system healthy. It can also help to boost the immune system and keep children healthy during summer. Moreover, you can add fresh fruits and nuts to make it a more filling snack.
To make it more appealing to children, you can add some honey to sweeten it. Additionally, you can add some granola or cereal to make it more crunchy.
- Millets:
Millets have gained a lot of popularity in recent years due to their health benefits. They are gluten-free and are a good source of fiber, protein, and essential minerals such as iron, calcium, and magnesium. Millets can help to ease digestion and are a great option for children who are prone to constipation or other digestive issues.
Some of the popular millets in India include ragi, jowar, bajra, and foxtail millet. You can make various dishes using millet such as dosa, idli, upma, khichdi, and porridge.
- Ragi Chocolae:
Ragi Chocolae is a healthy yet delicious drink that is perfect for summer. It is made using ragi sattva, which is a nutritious flour made from finger millet. Ragi Chocolae is rich in fiber, protein, and essential minerals such as calcium and iron. It is a good source of antioxidants that can help to boost the immune system and keep children healthy.
Moreover, there are no chemicals, or emulsifiers and thickeners in Ragi Chocolae. Ragi Chocolae can be served hot or cold and can be a great alternative to sugary drinks and sodas.
In India, summer can be particularly challenging for mothers as the hot and humid weather can cause several food-related problems in kids. From the loss of appetite to dehydration and allergies, mothers need to be vigilant and take necessary precautions to ensure that their children stay healthy and hydrated. Offering healthy and nutritious food options can help in this regard. Buttermilk, coconut water, homemade sharbat like lemonade, and gulkand shake are healthy options that the children might enjoy
Additionally, mothers can encourage their children to drink plenty of fluids, dress appropriately, avoid outdoor activities during peak hours, and use cool mist humidifiers to keep the air moist. With these tips and strategies, mothers can make summer a fun and memorable time for their children while keeping them healthy and happy.
