Broccoli is one type of vegetable that is good to be processed as a complementary food menu. This green vegetable contains a variety of nutrients that are needed for the growth and development of babies. To find out more about the benefits of broccoli for complementary foods, see this article, come on, Bun.
Broccoli is a vegetable with a high water content, which is about 89%. In addition, broccoli also stores a variety of nutrients that your little one needs, such as carbohydrates, protein, fiber, vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin K, vitamin B9, potassium, manganese, phosphorus, iron, and other plant compounds.
Benefits of Broccoli for Baby MPASI
Broccoli contains many useful nutrients, so it's a shame if you miss this healthy food as your child's complementary food menu. nowThe following are the various benefits of broccoli that can be obtained by babies through MPASI:
1. Increase endurance
Broccoli is rich in vitamin C. In 1 serving (± 25 grams) of cooked broccoli, there is vitamin C content that can meet about 31% of the daily requirement of this vitamin. Vitamin C can strengthen the body's immune system to fight viruses, bacteria, and parasites that cause disease.
Not only that, vitamin C also increases the absorption of iron in the baby's body. Iron is known to have an important role in forming hemoglobin which helps carry oxygen throughout the baby's body. This role is certainly important to maintain the normal function of organs and body tissues.
2. Helps the blood clotting process
Broccoli contains a lot of vitamin K, which is a vitamin that is important in supporting blood clotting. Vitamin K deficiency in infants can increase the risk of bleeding. In severe levels, bleeding can occur in the brain or gastrointestinal tract.
In addition, vitamin K is also important for supporting the growth and formation of the baby's bones.
3. Maintain digestive health
Mother, a healthy digestive tract can optimally absorb nutrients from food. A healthy digestive tract is also a reflection of a healthy immune system. Therefore, the health of your little one's digestive system needs to be maintained. One way is to regularly consume broccoli.
The high fiber and water content in broccoli can help improve bowel movements, improve food digestion, and increase the number of good bacteria (probiotics). So, babies who get enough of these nutrients can also avoid digestive disorders, such as constipation and diarrhea.
4. Prevents cell damage from free radicals
Broccoli contains a variety of bioactive compounds, such as sulforaphane, indole-3-carbinol, and kaempferol. These compounds are able to act as antioxidants that can prevent cell damage due to excess free radicals. The benefits of broccoli can protect children from various diseases, you know, Bun.
5. Maintain eye health
Eye health needs to be maintained as early as possible. The reason is, the eyes play an important role in the process of growth and development, Bun. nowOne way to keep your little one's eyes healthy is to give him broccoli as a complementary food menu.
Broccoli contains vitamin A and lutein compounds, zeaxanthin, and beta carotene, which contributes to support baby's eye health.
To include broccoli as a complementary food menu, you need to wait until your little one is 8-10 months old, because at this age, his digestive system is more mature. The reason is, broccoli contains refined sugar which can cause stomach upset if it is not digested properly.
So, pay attention to the portion of broccoli in a day, yes, Bun. In addition, make sure you choose broccoli that is still good, with solid florets, and a fresh dark green color.
To meet the nutritional needs of the baby, the mother must provide a variety of healthy complementary foods for him. If you still have questions regarding broccoli or other menus in your child's complementary food, don't hesitate to consult a doctor, okay?
