Health benefits of orange for babies-http://parentinghealthybabies.

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Orange is one of the favourite fruits for most people around the world. Orange, particularly sweet orange is liked by many. Few more reasons to like orange can include the benefits that they provide such as supply of essential nutrients, control of dyspepsia, common cure for cold and cough, a natural laxative and prevention of rickets. Orange is believed to have originated in southern China or Northern India. During the 15th century, orange was introduced to the western world by Vasco da Gama, after leaving from India. At present, many cultivars of orange have been developed which include loose skinned, tight skinned, sour and sweet oranges. While in the western world, tight skinned and sweet oranges are famous, in Asia, particularly India, loose skinned oranges are pretty popular. It is believed that the name orange has been derived from the Sanskrit word naaranga. Nutritional value of oranges The National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference from the United States Department of Agriculture lists the following nutrients in orange. These include Nutrition Component Water Energy Protein Total Lipid (fat) Carbohydrates Fiber Calcium Iron Magnesium Phosphorous Potassium Zinc Value per 100 g 86 g 49 kcal 1.04 g 0.30 g 11.89 g 2.5 g 40 mg 0.09 mg 10 mg 17 mg 179 mg 0.06 mg Nutrition Component Vitamin C Thiamin Riboflavin Niacin Vitamin B-6 Folate Vitamin A Value per 100 g 48.5 mg 0.087 mg 0.040 mg 0.274 mg 0.063 mg 39 ug 230 IU

Can oranges be introduced into babies diet? Introduction of oranges into baby food has been one of the areas of concern for mothers, paediatric nutritionists as well. As orange belongs to the citrus family, there is a concern whether or not introducing oranges for babies is good.

It is safe to say that introducing oranges as part of baby is not a bad idea, but a very good idea. Its not only about the taste of oranges, but it is also about the nutrients that are present in oranges. The age at which infants can be fed oranges is between 6-8 months. Health benefits of orange for babies Orange is not only a tasty fruit but, it also offers numerous health benefits. Some of these health benefits are especially helpful for children and infants. Some of the health benefits include Rich supply of nutrients: Oranges are good source of many nutrients such as vitamins and minerals. These vitamins and mineral highly needed b infants and children. Especially, they are useful for babys first year of development, which is very critical. Orange juice can be given to infants with physical development issues, due to the nutrition present in the fruit. Dyspepsia: Dyspepsia or indigestion is one of the most common conditions that infants and children face. As the digestive system of infants is very weak, it must be made sure that they should have easily digestible foods. The nutrition present in orange is useful in stimulating digestive system. (HK Bakhru, Foods That Heal). Constipation: Due to lack of dietary fiber in baby food, infants might have to face constipation some times. Feeding infants with fruits can be one of the best ways to avoid constipation and in promoting good health. Oranges contain high amount of dietary fiber. This dietary fiber is useful in eliminating constipation in infants and children. (HK Bakhru, Foods That Heal) Prevents rickets: Rickets is a condition which generally develops during infancy. Under this condition, bones are weakened and softened due to lack of calcium and phosphate. Oranges are rich in these minerals and hence, feeding your babies with oranges from time to time can prevent the development of rickets and such other disorders. (HK Bakhru, Foods That Heal) Remedy for common cold and cough: Infants and children fall sick particularly because of cold and cough. Orange juice with a honey and salt can act as an effective remedy against common cold and cough. It is also known to protect against secondary infections associated with cold and cough. (HK Bakhru, Foods That Heal)

Precautions to be taken while giving oranges to your baby The following precautions should be taken while giving oranges to your baby. Orange is that sort of fruit which must be given with some care. Peel, fiber and seeds: The peel, fiber and seeds are the ones which hinder a great orange experience for your child. Choose an orange that can be peeled and remove the fibers that

surround the flesh. Also the orange flesh contains seeds in it which have to be removed. Orange mash: Follow the above mentioned precaution about peeling. If you are still concerned whether or not your baby would be able to eat orange, then, mash the orange flesh so that it would be very easy for your baby to eat the orange fruit. Only sweet oranges: Make sure to give only sweet oranges to your baby. Sometimes, a small amount of sourness can be present in the fruit, which the babies might not like. Only fresh fruit: It is also important to give only fresh and properly ripened fruit to your baby. Check whether the fruit is firm in all directions. If the fruit has few soft spots try avoiding that fruit.

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