The benefits of bananas for babies

The children’s song ‘Go Bananas! Eat Eat Bananas!’ carries some good advice for parents. Bananas are a fantastic fruit option for children six months and older as they are soft, easy to eat and they don’t have seeds that could pose a choking risk for young children.

However, more than the delicious taste and smooth texture that makes this fruit a firm favourite amongst moms and children alike, bananas also bring several benefits to babies and children when eaten regularly:

• High in fibre: The dietary fibre of bananas can be useful in helping to keep baby’s tummy regular. While a baby’s digestive system is still developing, adding fruits that contain pectins, such as bananas, can be helpful in alleviating constipation but also preventing a runny tummy. In addition, the high fibre content is useful in aiding digestion.
• Boosts immunity: Bananas contain several vitamins including vitamin B6 and vitamin C which help to maintain the immune system. This is particularly useful for babies and small children as they are still building up their immunity. Vitamin B6 is also assists in maintaining the nervous system and supports muscle function.
• Maintains a healthy heart: Bananas contain several essential minerals, most notably potassium. Potassium is important for a healthy heart and it helps to maintain blood pressure levels.
• Prevents anaemia: Iron is very important in the production of haemoglobin and formation of red blood cells. From six months of age, the iron stores of a baby become Bananas are a source of iron and can help maintain iron stores to reduce the risk of your baby becoming anaemic.

Most of the vitamins and minerals that our babies need to growth healthy and strong cannot be produced by the body and need to come from the foods they eat. It is important that children eat nutritious foods, such as fruits and vegetables, from a young age in order to gain the nutrients they need to help their bodies develop and function optimally.

The Truth vs the myth about bananas

Bananas definitely do NOT cause constipation. As long as ripe bananas are eaten, the fibre and pectin is easily absorbed to keep the digestive system regular. Babies sometimes get constipated due to low fibre in the diet, however if you are breast feeding or formula feeding, this should provide the fibre that your baby needs, Simple fruits, such as bananas with their natural fibre assist in keeping the tummy regular.

Providing nutritious foods can sometimes be a challenge for busy parents and that is why companies like De-lish have produced premium quality, wholesome pureed foods for babiesand toddlers. “The De-lish pouch range of products have been created with fresh fruit and are conveniently packaged to take along wherever you go to make sure you have easy access to the goodness of fruit, maize and oats at any time,” says Kate, Clamber Club mom.

The De-lish range is available nationwide from Baby City.

Contributed by De-lsih 
Website: http://de-lish.co.za/home-2/