Did you know that in reality, pumpkins are actually fruits? Many people think of pumpkin-like fruit and there are also people who think of pumpkin as a vegetable. No matter what kind of pumpkin it is, one thing is for sure, it is undeniably healthy. Pumpkin is loaded with vitamin C, iron and other nutrients. It is a perfect addition to your baby’s diet.
This article will help you introduce to your baby the different recipes featuring pumpkin. Get some tips and ideas for sweet and delicious dishes of pumpkins, including soups, smoothies, and purees. This article will also give you a better understanding of the different benefits of pumpkin to your baby.
What is a pumpkin?
Pumpkin is an associate of the group of the gourd family. It is a kind of squash that is round-shaped with little bumpy skin, and most often deep yellow to orange color. Pumpkins are jam-packed full of great nutritional benefits. It is high and rich with Vitamin A and C and also beta carotene. In which beta-carotene may reduce the risk of cancer as well as heart disease.
It is also low in fat, low in calories but it is actually high in fiber. It is also a good source of potassium, iron, and protein. Its seeds also contain a good amount of protein and iron. Eating the seeds does provide some nutritive value. But it is not recommended to give your babies a pumpkin seed as it can cause choking to babies.
Nutritional goodness of pumpkin
Vitamins
- Vitamin A, C, and K
- Niacin
- Folate (vital in pregnancy)
Minerals
- Potassium
- Phosphorus
- Magnesium
- Calcium
- Sodium
- Iron
- contains amounts of zinc, manganese, and copper
When can the babies eat pumpkin recipes
Babies may begin to eat solid foods from 6 months old or when your baby is actually developing his milk teeth. If you let your child eat solid foods before 6 months, they would probably end up spitting them out.
If your child is in the right age to eat solid foods, then you can now introduce it to your baby already, with pumpkin purees or combine it into homemade cereals, yogurts, or even meats such as pork, beef or chicken. Just make sure your baby is not allergic to foods. If so, you may ask your doctor’s advice for proper handling.
Different pumpkin recipes for your baby
Having a hard time deciding how to prepare a pumpkin recipe for your babies? Try out these quick and delicious recipes for your little ones.
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Homemade pumpkin puree
This is the easiest and basic recipe you can ever make for your little one. Once you made this, it is easier for you to add up other ingredients to make it more delicious.
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Pumpkin pancakes(no sugar)
This kind of recipe is actually a puree, unsweetened apple sauce with oats and a few other ingredients come together to make a delicious snack for your little one. Pancakes are the best example of finger foods. Surely, your baby will love it.
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Pumpkin oatmeal
It’s not only nutritious for babies, but it is also delicious for you too. Its ingredients were just milk, oats, yogurt and of course, pumpkin puree.
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Pumpkin soup
Soups are the easiest food to feed for your baby. If your baby was able to drink milk, then he or she would most probably love soups. Pumpkin soups are actually rich in protein and creamy.
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Wheat pumpkin muffins
If your baby likes finger foods, then muffins can also be one of the foods to prepare for them. Muffins are a sneaky way to put veggies into your baby’s diet. This recipe is also fun to prepare. Just make sure to serve it for just a little pinch.
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Soft pumpkin baby biscuits
What’s better on an afternoon snack than waffles? The pumpkin, cinnamon, and gingers make it possible to make a waffle. Waffles are cooked soft and s perfect for little hands to pick.
With these easy and quick recipes for your baby, you now have an option on what to prepare for your little one. Of course, you need to consider giving this to them when you know they liked it. Just like having a trial and error in introducing different varieties of pumpkin recipes.
Health benefits
Pumpkin comes with different uses and benefits, some of which include:
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Vital nutrients
Pumpkin contains a high amount of calcium and also magnesium that actually helps the bones of the babies stronger. Pumpkin is also rich in phosphorus that can also enhance brain functions, keeping the hormones stable and enhance digestion.
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Eye vitamins
Pumpkin is really rich in Vitamin A, which is an essential nutrient for the eyes. It gives the baby an excellent vision both in light of day and at night. Pumpkins will also reduce the risk of having an eye condition.
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Increases digestion
Pumpkins are actually rich in fiber which aids in faster metabolism. Pumpkins help regulate bowel movements of the baby and it keeps constipation away.
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Glows the skin
Pumpkin actually gives a glow to the skin of the babies or even adults if regularly taken. It blocks up the surface of the baby’s skin and making it glow. It reduces the aging of the skin.
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Gives energy
With just one cup of pumpkin, it will definitely give the baby a great source of potassium. In the blood, it actually develops the balance of electrolytes and improves the functions of the muscle.
Final words
It is important to feed your child with the vegetables at such a young age. With that kind of habit, your baby’s body would get used to it and will bring it until they grow up as adults. As the saying goes, “Start them young” would really fit in this. Yes, it is hard to feed them vegetables because we know that vegetables can be very awful sometimes. Just be patient. It may be a long process, but it’s all worth it.
Do not also forget to seek doctor’s advice. Doctors are a very big help when it comes to the health of the baby. They will guide you and they will never bring you down.
Read also:
- Pork Recipes for Your Baby
- Best Fruit Recipes that Your Baby will Surely Love
- Spinach: a Recipe that Your Baby will Definitely Love
