Benefits of Milk for Children. Twists in Milk to make it more Tasty and acceptable to Children
While many experts may not agree but most mothers in India consider milk to be a wonder drink. Conventional wisdom in India considers it to be a complete food that contains most of the key nutritive elements essential for growing children. Milk is very beneficial for growing children and one of the best sources of calcium. It keeps bones healthy and strong and prevents bone loss. Calcium reduces obesity among children, as it helps to reduce unwanted fat. It is also important for strong teeth and maintaining proper dental health.
Vitamins found in milk are essential for the healthy development of the brain and nervous system and play a key role in ensuring regular sleep-wake cycles. They also reduce inflammation and helps boost your kid’s immune system.
Carbohydrates present in milk gives adequate energy and the children feel less tired and lethargic. Milk is also good for maintaining a proper fluid balance and keeping your child hydrated.
If you find it difficult to get your kid to drink that glass of milk, you can try some of these twists.
Give it a flavour twist: Chocolate may be a clear winner for most children but fruits like mango, berries and banana or dry fruits like pistachio, almonds are other healthy options available. You can try adding spices like, cardamom, cinnamon or even saffron and you have a healthy drink ready to be gulped down!!
A smoothie twist: If your child has a taste for yogurt, you may sneak some milk into a smoothie. A dollop of honey in a smoothie also enhances its taste.
Ice-cream twist: Whip milk as the main base along with other flavourful ingredients to make a frothy and creamy ice-cream at home.
Cereal Twist: Kids love crunchy sugary cereals and milk is the ideal accompaniment to cereals. Add either hot or cold milk to your kid’s bowl of cereal and make sure it is eaten before they turn soggy.
A Pasta twist: Milk is a main ingredient to make some delicious pasta in white sauce. Kids love pasta and your kid too will not notice milk that has been sneaked into the white sauce.
You can try these simple twists to ensure that your child gets some milk in her daily diet.
Courtesy – Chef Manjit Gill.