Not only for adults, chia seeds popular as superfood It can also be consumed by children, you know, Bun. Despite having a small size, chia seeds contains a variety of benefits for your baby. Want to know anything? Let's see the explanation here.
Chia seeds or chia seeds have a Latin name Salvia hispanica L. These small black seeds that come from Mexico are rich in essential nutrients needed by the child's body and brain. These nutrients include protein, calcium, omega-3, fiber, and phosphorus.
What are the Benefits Chia Seed for children?
The following are some of the benefits chia seeds for children you need to know:
1. Supports the growth and development of children
One tablespoon (± 10 g) of chia seeds contains about 2 g of protein. Protein is one of the nutrients needed in large amounts by children. If you don't get enough protein, your child can experience problems or a slowdown in their growth.
In addition, protein is also very important for repairing damaged cells and making new cells, as well as protecting the body from viruses and bacteria. Because of the things above, it is important to always include protein in a child's daily menu.
2. Healthy brain
The content of omega 3 fatty acids in chia seeds is very good for improving brain health and children's sleep quality. Both of these are factors that support the development of children to be intelligent and achievers. In one tablespoon chia seeds contains about 1.2 g of omega 3 fatty acids.
On the other hand, chia seeds also has benefits to nourish the little one's heart, you know, Bun. Omega 3 fatty acids in chia seeds can control LDL cholesterol and blood fat levels, especially if the child is obese, thereby reducing the child's risk of developing heart disease.
3. Maintain a healthy digestive system
In one tablespoon chia seeds contains 5 g of fiber which is even higher than the fiber content in 1 apple. The presence of fiber in your baby's diet is needed to maintain a healthy digestive system. Fiber plays a role in softening stools so that your little one does not experience constipation.
Fiber also helps normalize bowel movements and makes the stomach feel full longer, so that children avoid overeating behavior. Not only that, the fiber in chia seeds can control blood sugar levels when eating, so it can reduce the risk of children developing diabetes later in life.
4. Strengthens bones and teeth
One tablespoon chia seeds contains about 7 mg of calcium and 2 mg of phosphorus. These two minerals work together in building and strengthening a child's bones and teeth.
Calcium and phosphorus play an important role in making your little one's bones and teeth not easily porous and brittle. Children who don't get enough calcium and vitamin D early on are at increased risk of developing rickets.
In addition to supporting healthy teeth and bones, calcium is also needed so that children's muscles and nerves work well, and the release of hormones and enzymes in the body runs smoothly.
Chia seeds has a mild taste, so it will not interfere with the overall taste when mixed into other foods or drinks. You can mix chia seeds in your child's favorite food or drink, such as pudding, pastries, smoothies or juice, and jam.
By knowing the benefits of chia seeds, now you can start introducing these grains to your little one's food, right? However, if signs of allergies appear in children after consuming chia seeds, immediately consult a doctor to get the right treatment.
